Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS)

Research Grants Council (RGC), Hong Kong

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Details checked on 30 October 2026. Dates and amounts change every year. Always confirm on the official page.

Who can apply

New applicants to full-time PhD programmes at Hong Kong government-funded universities, of any nationality, with strong academic results, research ability and leadership. Only one application may be submitted to the RGC.

Watch: how to apply

About this opportunity

The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme gives a monthly stipend and a travel allowance to top PhD students of any nationality at Hong Kong's government-funded universities.

How to apply, step by step

1. Check that you are eligible. New applicants to full-time PhD programmes at Hong Kong government-funded universities, of any nationality, with strong academic results, research ability and leadership. Only one application may be submitted to the RGC.
2. Note the deadline. Dec 1 (annual; the 2027/28 round closes on 1 Dec 2026 at 12:00 noon Hong Kong time - you file one RGC application and a separate application to each university) Confirm the exact date on the official page.
3. Prepare your documents. Passport or national ID; Academic transcripts and degree certificates; CV; Statement of purpose or motivation letter (if requested); Reference or recommendation letters (if requested); Research proposal (for research degrees, if requested); English-language test result or other language proof (if required); Anything else listed on the official page (this list is a typical checklist - always confirm there).
4. Apply on the official page. Open the official application page and submit your application before the deadline.

Free materials

Templates, checklists and guides to help you apply.

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Tips from our advisors

1. Read the eligibility line by line before you write anything. Most rejections are eligibility mismatches, not weak essays.
2. Contact potential supervisors before you apply. Send a one-page research summary and a short, specific email.
3. Start at least 8 to 12 weeks early. Certified transcripts, translations and referee letters usually take longer than expected.
4. Ask your referees at least 4 weeks ahead and give them your CV, your draft SOP and the deadline.
5. Submit at least 48 hours before the deadline. Portals slow down on the last day.
6. Have your SOP and CV reviewed by someone who has seen successful applications before you submit.

Quick answers

Who can apply for Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS)?

New applicants to full-time PhD programmes at Hong Kong government-funded universities, of any nationality, with strong academic results, research ability and leadership. Only one application may be submitted to the RGC.

What does Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) cover?

Monthly stipend of HK$28,700 and a conference/research travel allowance of HK style="padding-top:40px"4,400 a year, for up to 3 years (4 years at some universities); tuition is covered by the university

When is the deadline for Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS)?

Dec 1 (annual; the 2027/28 round closes on 1 Dec 2026 at 12:00 noon Hong Kong time - you file one RGC application and a separate application to each university) Dates change every year, so confirm on the official page.

Where can I study or work with Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS)?

Host countries: Hong Kong.

What documents do I need for Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS)?

Passport or national ID; Academic transcripts and degree certificates; CV; Statement of purpose or motivation letter (if requested); Reference or recommendation letters (if requested); Research proposal (for research degrees, if requested); English-language test result or other language proof (if required); Anything else listed on the official page (this list is a typical checklist - always confirm there).

How much work is the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) application?

Very High: Detailed Research Proposal + Academic Publications/Awards + 2 Expert Referee Reports