Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS)

The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) is a fully funded, highly prestigious program established by the Research Grants Council of Hong Kong to attract top global talent for PhD studies. The scheme supports outstanding students to pursue research degrees at leading universities in Hong Kong, positioning them within Asia’s rapidly growing academic and innovation ecosystem.

What’s Offered

• A fully funded PhD program in Hong Kong (up to 3 years of fellowship support)
• Annual stipend of approximately HK$340,800 (~US$43,000)
• Additional research and conference travel allowance (~HK$14,200/year)
• Opportunity to study at top Hong Kong universities including:
  • The University of Hong Kong
  • HKUST
  • CUHK
  • CityU
  • PolyU and others
• Possible additional funding or extended support from host universities beyond 3 years
• Access to a high-level research environment in Asia’s global financial and innovation hub

Eligibility Criteria

• Open to international students worldwide applying for full-time PhD programs
• Must demonstrate:
  • Outstanding academic performance
  • Strong research ability and potential
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
  • Leadership qualities
• No restriction on nationality, background, or prior work experience

Program Structure

• Fellowship supports PhD studies for up to 3 years
• Candidates must:
  • Submit an initial application to HKPFS
  • Apply separately to selected universities (up to 2 choices)
• Selection is conducted by expert panels across two broad areas:
  • STEM (Science, Engineering, Medicine, Technology)
  • Humanities, Social Sciences, Business
• Universities may conduct interviews as part of the selection process

Focus Area

• Open to all disciplines, including:
  • Science & Engineering
  • Medicine
  • Business
  • Humanities & Social Sciences

Deadline

• December 1, 2025 (12:00 noon Hong Kong Time) for initial application
• University application deadlines are typically also around December 1, 2025