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Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) – Fully Funded Scholarship for International Students

UndergraduatePhDFully funded
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Next deadline expected around Dec 1, 2026, based on the last confirmed round (closed December 1, 2025). Most scholarships open again at a similar time each year, but dates can change, so confirm on the official page before you apply.
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The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) is now open for applications. This fully funded PhD scholarship in Hong Kong welcomes international students from all countries to pursue their doctoral studies at top-ranked universities in Hong Kong. Applicants with a Bachelor’s degree (16 years of education) or a Master’s degree (MPhil) can apply directly for the fellowship.

This prestigious fellowship program offers more than 500 awards, covering tuition, a generous stipend, and research allowances. The HKPFS gives talented students a chance tostudy abroad for free and conduct world-class research in Hong Kong’s leading universities.

Quick Summary of HKPFS:

  • Scholarship Type: Fully Funded PhD Fellowship
  • Host Country: Hong Kong
  • Degree Level: PhD (Direct PhD allowed for bachelor’s holders)
  • Eligible Students: All nationalities
  • Total Awards: 500+
  • Fields of Study: Science, Engineering, Technology, Medicine, Humanities, Social Sciences, Business
  • Application Deadline:December 1,

Why Apply for the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship?

  • Study at world-class Hong Kong universities ranked among the best globally.
  • Receive a fully funded PhD scholarship with no application fee.
  • Build a strong research network with international faculty and scholars.
  • Gain exposure to cutting-edge research and global conferences.

Financial Coverage – Benefits of HKPFS

The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) is a fully funded scholarship that covers all study-related expenses. Benefits include:

  • Annual Stipend: US $43,690 per year
  • Conference & Research Allowance: US $1,820 per year (up to 3 years)
  • Extended Support: Students requiring more than 3 years may receive additional funding from their respective universities.

Participating Universities Under HKPFS

Eight leading universities in Hong Kong are part of this fellowship scheme:

  1. City University of Hong Kong
  2. Hong Kong Baptist University
  3. Lingnan University
  4. The Chinese University of Hong Kong
  5. The Education University of Hong Kong
  6. The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
  7. The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
  8. The University of Hong Kong

Fields of Study

Applicants can pursue PhD studies in the following academic areas:

  • Science, Engineering, Technology, and Medicine
  • Humanities and Arts
  • Social Sciences
  • Business and Management

Selection Criteria

Applicants will be evaluated on:

  • Academic excellence
  • Research capability and potential
  • Communication and interpersonal skills
  • Leadership qualities

Application Timeline & Deadline

  • Initial Application Deadline:December 1, (12:00 noon Hong Kong Time)

  • University Application Deadlines: Vary by institution but mostly by December 1, (11:59 pm HKT)

How to Apply for Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS)

The application process consists of two main steps:

Step 1: Initial Application

  • Submit an online application through the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme Electronic System (HKPFSES).
  • Obtain an HKPFS Reference Number before applying to universities.

Step 2: University Applications

  • Apply to up to two PhD programs/departments at one or two universities.
  • Quote your HKPFS Reference Number when submitting the applications.
  • Ensure compliance with the admission requirements of each university.

Important: Some universities have deadlines immediately after the initial application, so apply early to secure enough time.

Official Deadline for Each University:

Official Link & Application Portal

[Visit the Official Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme Website Here]

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How to apply

  1. Read the eligibility, benefits and required documents above.
  2. Prepare your documents — transcripts, CV, motivation letter and any tests required.
  3. Apply through the official website before the deadline.
  4. Track your progress on GrabScholarships so you never miss a step.
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