Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) 2025‑2026

If you’re an aspiring research scholar eyeing top global universities, the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) 2025‑2026 is an option you should consider! This prestigious fellowship, designed to attract outstanding global talent, offers full-time PhD studies at eight world-class universities in Hong Kong, with generous funding and support.

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📌 Fellowship Summary

• Location: Hong Kong SAR, China

• Host Institutions:

  • City University of Hong Kong

  • Hong Kong Baptist University

  • Lingnan University

  • The Chinese University of Hong Kong

  • The Education University of Hong Kong

  • The Hong Kong Polytechnic University

  • Hong Kong University of Science and Technology

  • The University of Hong Kong

• Study Level: Full‑time PhD

• Target Group: International and local candidates, no restrictions on nationality, background, or prior work experience

• Fields of Study: All disciplines, including Sciences, Medicine, Engineering, Technology, Humanities, Social Sciences, Business Studies

• Value & Coverage:

  • Annual stipend of HK$337,200 (~US $43,230)

  • Annual conference and research travel allowance of HK$14,000 (~US $1,790)

  • Additional university support available for study beyond three years

• Duration: Up to 3 years (potential extension by individual universities)

• Number of Awards: 400 fellowships for academic year 2025‑26

• Application Deadline: Initial application via HKPFSES must be submitted by 1 December 2025 at 12:00 HKT (For the next academic year, applications will open in September)

• Eligible To: New full-time PhD entrants; prior PhD enrollment is not permitted

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🧑‍🎓 Fellowship Overview

The HKPFS, established in 2009 by the Research Grants Council, is designed to attract the brightest minds worldwide for doctoral studies in Hong Kong’s UGC-funded universities. Applicants can select up to two PhD programs/departments across one or two institutions during the initial application

🗓️ Timeline & Criteria

1. Initial Application through the HKPFSES (Sept 1 – Dec 1, 2025)

2. Full University Applications quoting the HKPFS reference number to institutions by internal deadlines (usually 1 Dec 2025, 11:59pm HKT)

3. Applications are assessed by two panels:

   • Sciences, Medicine, Engineering, Technology

   • Humanities, Social Sciences, Business Studies 

4. Selection Criteria:

   • Academic excellence (grades, awards, transcripts)

   • Research potential and clarity of research proposal

   • Communication and interpersonal aptitude; leadership qualities

   • Cultural diversity and university support may also be considered

5. Interview Stage: Shortlisted candidates may attend interviews (in-person or via phone/Zoom)

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✅ Benefits of the Scheme

• Tuition & Fees: Universities often waive tuition or provide additional scholarships (e.g., HKU, CUHK)

• Livelihood & Travel: Robust financial package supports stipend and travel for research dissemination or conferences

• Academic & Professional Growth:

  • Mentored research experience at leading institutions

  • Access to well-equipped facilities, scholarly communities, seminars

  • Leadership and networking opportunities across disciplines

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👤 Eligibility Criteria

• Must be a new full-time PhD student (no prior doctoral enrollment)

• Academic excellence: typically a 1st-class bachelor’s degree or master’s degree

• All nationalities welcomed, no restrictions on background or prior experience

• English proficiency:

  • If previous education wasn’t in English, TOEFL/IELTS or equivalent is required

• Must showcase strong communication, leadership qualities, and research potential

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📝 Application Procedure

Step 1 – Initial Application (HKPFSES)

• Period: 1 Sept – 1 Dec 2025, by noon HKT

• Receive an HKPFS reference number

• Choose up to two programs/departments (same or across two universities)

Step 2 – University Applications

• Submit full application to chosen PhD programs by 1 Dec 2025, 11:59pm HKT

• Include reference number, research proposal, transcripts, CV, referee letters, and English test scores (if needed)

📄 Documents Checklist

• Academic transcripts (Bachelor’s/Master’s)

• Curriculum Vitae (with research/awards highlight)

• Statement of Purpose / Research Proposal

• 2 Referee Reports (academic)

• Proof of English proficiency (if applicable)

• Copy of passport/ID

🔍 Tips & Additional Info

• Apply early to allow time for university deadlines post initial submission

• Research fit matters: tailor your proposal to faculty at target schools

• Referees: choose people familiar with your research/relevant academic strengths

• Interviews likely if shortlisted; be prepared to discuss your research ambitions and experiences

• Explore specific university perks:

  • CUHK offers tuition waivers, lodgings, and additional cash grants

  • HKU includes Presidential scholarships, residence guarantee, and research funds

• Longer programs: if doctoral work extends beyond 3 years, universities can provide extension support

🔗 For Further Information, visit the official webpage of Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) 2025‑2026

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