Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2025-26: 400 Fully Funded Scholarships for International Students | Study Abroad Opportunity

Are you an outstanding international student looking to pursue your PhD studies in Hong Kong?

The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme, offered by the Research Grants Council (RGC) of Hong Kong, provides a fantastic opportunity to receive full funding for your doctoral studies at world-class universities in Hong Kong.

With 400 fully funded fellowships available for the 2025-26 academic year, this is a chance you don’t want to miss!

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About the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme

Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2025-26: 400 Fully Funded Scholarships for International Students | Study Abroad Opportunity

The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) aims to attract the best and brightest students from around the world to pursue their PhD studies in Hong Kong’s top universities.

Established by the Research Grants Council (RGC) in 2009, the scheme has supported over 7,900 outstanding students from more than 100 countries and regions.

Hong Kong, known for its vibrant culture, cutting-edge research facilities, and globally recognized universities, offers an ideal environment for doctoral students to thrive academically and personally.

The HKPFS provides full financial support, allowing students to focus on their research without worrying about funding.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme, applicants must:

1. Be seeking admission as a new full-time PhD student in one of the participating universities in Hong Kong
2. Have an excellent academic record and research potential
3. Demonstrate strong communication and interpersonal skills
4. Meet the admission requirements of the chosen university
5. Not have previously registered as a PhD student in any of the participating universities in Hong Kong
6. Not be currently employed as a full-time staff member at any of the participating universities in Hong Kong

Participating Universities

The following universities in Hong Kong are participating in the HKPFS for the 2025-26 academic year:

• City University of Hong Kong (CityU)
• 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)

Each university has its own areas of research excellence and offers a wide range of PhD programs across various disciplines.

Visit the official websites of the participating universities to explore their research areas and find the program that best aligns with your interests and career goals.

Fellowship Benefits

The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme provides generous financial support and benefits to its recipients, including:

1. Annual stipend of HK$337,200 (approximately US$43,230) for up to three years
2. Conference and research-related travel allowance of HK$14,000 (approximately US$1,790) per year for up to three years
3. Postgraduate studentship (for students who need more than three years to complete their PhD studies)
4. Waiver of tuition fees for the entire duration of the PhD program

With these comprehensive benefits, HKPFS recipients can focus on their research and make the most of their PhD experience in Hong Kong.

Application Process

The application process for the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme involves two steps:

1. Initial application through the RGC’s online system
2. Direct application to the chosen university

Step 1: Initial Application through RGC

To begin your application, visit the official Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme website and create an account in the online application system. You will need to provide personal information, academic background, research proposal, and supporting documents, such as:

• Academic transcripts and certificates
• Proof of English proficiency (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS)
• Research proposal
• Curriculum vitae (CV)
• Two academic references

The initial application deadline for the 2025-26 academic year is December 1, 2024.

Make sure to submit your application well before the deadline to avoid any last-minute issues.

Step 2: Direct Application to Chosen University

After submitting your initial application through the RGC’s online system, you must also apply directly to your chosen university.

Each university has its own application requirements and deadlines, so it is essential to visit their official websites and follow their specific instructions.

In most cases, you will need to provide similar documents as in the initial application, along with any additional materials required by the university. Some universities may also require an interview as part of the selection process.

It is crucial to apply to your chosen university as early as possible, as some universities may have earlier deadlines than the RGC’s initial application deadline.

Selection Process

The selection process for the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme is highly competitive and merit-based.

The RGC and the participating universities work together to assess the applications and select the most outstanding candidates.

The selection criteria include:

1. Academic excellence and research potential
2. Quality and originality of the research proposal
3. Relevance of the proposed research to the strategic research areas of the chosen university
4. Feasibility of the proposed research plan
5. Communication and interpersonal skills

The RGC conducts an initial screening of the applications and forwards the shortlisted candidates to the respective universities for further assessment.

The universities then evaluate the applications based on their own selection criteria and make the final decisions on the fellowship recipients.

Announcement of Results

The results of the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme are usually announced in April of the following year. For the 2025-26 academic year, the results will be announced in April 2025.

Successful applicants will receive an email notification from the RGC and their chosen university.

They will also be provided with information on the next steps, such as accepting the fellowship offer and preparing for their arrival in Hong Kong.

Unsuccessful applicants will also be notified by email. They may still be considered for regular PhD admission and other funding opportunities by their chosen universities.

Preparing for Your PhD Studies in Hong Kong

If you are awarded the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship, congratulations!

You are about to embark on an exciting journey of academic growth and personal development in one of the most vibrant cities in the world.

To make the most of your PhD experience in Hong Kong, here are some tips to help you prepare:

1. Visa application: Apply for a student visa through the Hong Kong Immigration Department. Your university will provide you with the necessary documents and guidance.
2. Accommodation: Secure accommodation, either on-campus or off-campus. Your university’s international student office can assist you with housing options and arrangements.
3. Health insurance: Arrange for health insurance coverage during your stay in Hong Kong. Your university may provide or recommend suitable insurance plans.
4. Transportation: Familiarize yourself with Hong Kong’s efficient public transportation system, including the MTR (Mass Transit Railway), buses, and trams.
5. Language preparation: While most PhD programs in Hong Kong are conducted in English, learning some basic Cantonese or Mandarin can help you navigate daily life more easily.
6. Networking: Connect with fellow PhD students, researchers, and faculty members in your department and beyond. Attend orientation events, seminars, and conferences to expand your academic network.
7. Explore Hong Kong: Take advantage of your time in Hong Kong to explore its rich culture, history, and natural beauty. Visit iconic landmarks, try local cuisine, and immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant lifestyle.

Conclusion

The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme is an incredible opportunity for outstanding international students to pursue their doctoral studies in one of the world’s most dynamic and cosmopolitan cities.

With full financial support, world-class research facilities, and a vibrant academic community, the HKPFS offers an unparalleled PhD experience.

If you are passionate about research and eager to make a meaningful contribution to your field, the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme could be the perfect fit for you.

Start preparing your application today and take the first step towards an exciting and rewarding academic journey in Hong Kong.

For more information and to apply, visit the official Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme website: Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme

Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to pursue your PhD dreams in Hong Kong. Apply now and join the global community of outstanding scholars!