By scholarshipswithaakash@gmail.com 
📣 Are you dreaming of pursuing a fully funded PhD in Hong Kong at one of the world’s top universities? The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2026/2027 (HKPFS) offers international students a golden opportunity to advance their research career with generous funding, global exposure, and access to world-class faculty.
Established in 2009 by the Research Grants Council (RGC) of Hong Kong, this prestigious scheme attracts outstanding scholars worldwide, regardless of nationality, ethnicity, or background. For the academic year 2026/27, the HKPFS will award 400 fully funded Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2026/2027 across eight leading universities in Hong Kong.
Let’s dive deep into the eligibility, benefits, application process, deadlines, and why Hong Kong is an excellent choice for your PhD journey.
🌍 Background of Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2026/2027
The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) was launched with the vision to establish Hong Kong as a regional and international hub for research and higher education. Since its inception in 2009, the scheme has successfully attracted some of the brightest global talents to pursue research in diverse disciplines such as science, engineering, medicine, business, humanities, and social sciences.
With Hong Kong’s unique position as an international gateway to Asia, scholars not only benefit from academic excellence but also from cultural diversity, global networking, and innovative research environments.
✅ Eligibility Criteria for Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2026/27
Applicants from all nationalities are welcome to apply. To be eligible, you must:
📍 Apply as a new full-time PhD student in one of the eight participating universities in Hong Kong.
📍 Demonstrate outstanding academic performance.
📍 Showcase strong research ability/potential.
📍 Have excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
📍 Display proven leadership qualities.
🏫 Participating Universities in Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2026/2027
The fellowship covers applications to the following eight universities:
- City University of Hong Kong (CityUHK)
- Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU)
- Lingnan University (LU)
- The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK)
- The Education University of Hong Kong (EdUHK)
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU)
- The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST)
- The University of Hong Kong (HKU)
💰 Fellowship Benefits – What Awardees Receive
The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2026/2027 is one of the most generous PhD scholarships worldwide, offering:
🔹 Annual Stipend: HK$340,800 (approx. US$43,690)
🔹 Conference & Research-Related Travel Allowance: HK$14,200 (approx. US$1,820) per year
🔹 Duration: Up to 3 years (additional support available from universities if the PhD takes longer)
🔹 Number of Awards: 400 fellowships in 2026/27
This financial support ensures scholars can focus entirely on their research and academic excellence without worrying about financial burdens.
🏆 Selection Process & Criteria Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2026/2027
The Research Grants Council (RGC) carefully reviews applications through two major selection panels:
- Sciences, Medicine, Engineering, and Technology
- Humanities, Social Sciences, and Business Studies
🔑 Selection Criteria:
✔ Academic excellence
✔ Research ability & potential
✔ Communication & interpersonal skills
✔ Leadership abilities
📅 Important Dates & Deadlines
⏰ Application Timeline for HKPFS 2026/27
- Initial Application Opens: 1 September 2025 (12:00 noon Hong Kong Time)
- Initial Application Deadline: 1 December 2025 (12:00 noon Hong Kong Time)
- University Deadlines: Most universities also close on 1 December 2025 (11:59 PM HKT)
👉 Applicants should apply early to secure enough time to submit both the initial application and the full PhD applications at their chosen universities.
📝 How to Apply for Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2026/2027
The application process involves two main steps:
Step 1: Submit Initial Application
- Complete an Initial Application via the HKPFS Electronic System (HKPFSES).
- Obtain your HKPFS Reference Number.
- Deadline: 1 December 2025 at 12:00 noon (HKT).
🔗 Submit Initial Application Here
Step 2: Apply to Universities
- Use your HKPFS Reference Number when applying to up to two PhD programmes/departments at one or two universities.
- Ensure you meet university-specific admission requirements.
- Check individual university deadlines and apply on time.
🔗 Guidance Note for Application (PDF)
🌆 Why Pursue a PhD in Hong Kong?
Hong Kong offers much more than just financial support for your studies. Here’s why it’s a top global PhD destination:
💡 World-Class Research Environment – Top-ranked universities with cutting-edge facilities.
💡 Strategic Location – A global hub connecting East and West.
💡 Cultural Diversity – A cosmopolitan city that embraces international students.
💡 Entrepreneurial Spirit – Opportunities for innovation, startups, and collaboration.
💡 High Quality of Life – Safe, dynamic, and vibrant lifestyle with global connectivity.
📍 Related Resource: Study in Hong Kong – Higher Education Opportunities
🔎 Internal Links for More Scholarship Opportunities
If you are interested in other fully funded scholarships, check out:
Exciting Fully Funded PhD in Plant Genetics
📌 FAQs – Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2026/27
1. Who can apply for the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2026/27?
Anyone from any nationality with strong academic records, research potential, communication, and leadership skills can apply.
2. How many fellowships are awarded under HKPFS 2026/27?
A total of 400 fully funded fellowships are available for the 2026/27 academic year.
3. What is the financial support provided?
Awardees receive HK$340,800 per year stipend and HK$14,200 annual travel allowance.
4. Can I apply to more than one university?
Yes, applicants can apply to two PhD programmes at one or two universities using the same reference number.
5. What is the deadline for applications?
The Initial Application deadline is 1 December 2025 at 12:00 noon (HKT). University deadlines usually follow on 1 December 2025 at 11:59 PM (HKT).
📩 Final Thoughts
The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2026/2027 is a prestigious fully funded opportunity for international students who aspire to pursue advanced research in one of Asia’s leading education hubs. With generous funding, world-class universities, and exposure to a vibrant academic culture, this fellowship can be the stepping stone to your research career success.
🚀 Don’t miss this chance – start preparing your application early and give yourself the best shot at securing a place in HKPFS 2026/27.
🔗 Apply Now: Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme – Official Website
🧑🎓 Author Bio
Mubeen Ali Niaz
Founder of ScholarshipsWithAakash.site
Mubeen curates top-ranked, fully funded scholarships for international students. With a strong background in global education and SEO, he helps students worldwide gain access to world-class research programs.
Stay tuned with Scholarships with Aakash — Where Your Academic Dreams Take Flight.
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