Hong Kong PhD Fellowship 2027/28 | Call for Applications

Applications are open for the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2027/28. Hong Kong’s Research Grants Council funds full-time doctoral study at eight universities. The scheme welcomes applicants from any country, background, or work history. This cycle will award 400 fellowships across all disciplines.

Program Snapshot

• Host Organization: Research Grants Council (RGC), Hong Kong
• Funding: HK$344,400 annual stipend, plus HK$14,400 for travel
• Duration: Up to 3 years, with possible university top-up support
• Fellowships Available: 400 for the 2027/28 academic year
• Participating Universities: 8, including HKU, CUHK, and HKUST
• Application Deadline: 1 December 2026, 12:00 noon Hong Kong Time

Focus Areas

• Doctoral research across sciences, engineering, and technology
• Humanities, social sciences, and business studies
• Original research with genuine scholarly potential
• Leadership and communication alongside academic strength

About the Scheme

This scheme has drawn top global researchers to Hong Kong since 2009. It rewards academic excellence, research potential, and leadership together. Applicants choose up to two PhD programmes across one or two universities. Selection panels are split by field: sciences and humanities and social sciences.

What Fellows Receive

Fellows earn HK$344,400 yearly throughout their three-year fellowship term. A separate HK$14,400 allowance covers conferences and research travel. Universities may offer added support if a PhD runs longer. The RGC charges no application fee for this scheme.

Who Can Apply

Applicants can come from any country, ethnicity, or career background. Candidates must separately meet their chosen university’s own admission standards. Strong academic records, research ability, and leadership potential all matter. Only one initial HKPFS application per person is permitted.

Required Materials

Applicants complete the HKPFS initial application through the online system. A full PhD admission application must follow at each chosen university. Consistent information across both applications is essential for consideration.

How to Apply

Submit your initial application through the RGC’s electronic system by December 1.

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Conclusion

This scheme offers genuinely generous, fully funded doctoral study open to the world. Its four-part selection criteria reward well-rounded, research-ready candidates. Because university deadlines vary independently, applicants should confirm both processes early.

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