The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2027 offers 400 fully funded PhD fellowships to talented students from around the world. The program is funded by the Research Grants Council (RGC) of Hong Kong and allows successful applicants to pursue doctoral studies at one of eight participating universities in Hong Kong.
The fellowship is open to applicants of all nationalities and covers a wide range of academic disciplines, including sciences, medicine, engineering, technology, humanities, social sciences, and business studies.
There is no application fee, and previous work experience is not required.
Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2027 – Quick Details
The fellowship provides financial support for doctoral students studying at participating Hong Kong universities.
About the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme
The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) is a major doctoral fellowship initiative supported by the Government of Hong Kong through the Research Grants Council.
The program is designed to attract outstanding researchers and talented students from around the world to undertake PhD studies in Hong Kong.
For the 2027 intake, 400 fellowships are available across eight participating universities. Applicants can select eligible PhD programs offered by the participating institutions.
The fellowship is particularly suitable for students who want to pursue advanced research while studying in an internationally connected academic environment.
Participating Universities
Applicants can apply to PhD programs at the following eight universities:
These eight institutions are participating in the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2027.
Fields of Study
The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme supports doctoral research across several broad academic areas, including:
Applicants should select a suitable PhD program from the participating universities based on their academic background and research interests.
Financial Benefits
Successful fellows will receive financial support during their doctoral studies.
The fellowship is normally awarded for three years. Additional support may be available from the relevant university if more time is required to complete the PhD.
Program Duration and Start Date
The standard duration of the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship is three years.
Universities in Hong Kong normally begin their academic year in September, meaning successful applicants for this intake are expected to begin their studies around September 2027.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2027, applicants should meet the following requirements:
The source does not specify a requirement for previous professional work experience.
How Many PhD Programs Can You Choose?
Applicants may select up to two programs or departments at one or two participating universities.
This gives applicants the opportunity to apply to more than one suitable doctoral program while using the HKPFS application system.
How to Apply for the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship 2027
The application process involves two main steps.
Step 1: Submit the Initial Application
First, applicants must submit an initial application through the Hong Kong Ph.D. Fellowship Scheme Electronic System (HKPFSES).
This initial application must be completed by:
December 1, 2026, at 12:00 noon Hong Kong Time.
After submitting the initial application, applicants will receive an HKPFS Reference Number. This number is required when submitting the subsequent PhD admission applications to the universities.
Official Initial Application System:
HKPFS Electronic System – Initial Application
Applicants can also consult the official guidance document before completing the initial application:
Guidance Note for Completing the Initial Application
Step 2: Apply to the Selected Universities
After completing the initial HKPFS application, applicants must submit their full PhD admission applications directly to the universities and programs they have selected.
The applicant must quote their HKPFS Reference Number when submitting the university applications.
The official list of participating universities and relevant application information is available through the HKPFS website:
Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme – Official Website
Important Deadline
The deadline for the initial HKPFS application is:
December 1, 2026, at 12:00 noon Hong Kong Time.
Applicants should not wait until the final day to submit their initial application because they also need to complete the separate PhD admission application for their selected university or universities.
Why Apply for the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship?
The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme is an attractive opportunity for students seeking international doctoral education because it offers:
For students interested in research, academia, science, engineering, business, medicine, humanities, or social sciences, the scheme provides an opportunity to pursue doctoral studies in Hong Kong with substantial financial support.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship fully funded?
Yes. The fellowship provides an annual stipend and a conference and research-related travel allowance.
How many fellowships are available?
There are 400 Hong Kong PhD Fellowships available for the 2027 scheme.
Who can apply?
Applicants from all nationalities can apply, provided they meet the requirements for a new full-time PhD student and the selected university/program.
Is IELTS required?
Applicants educated in an English-medium institution may be able to provide evidence of English-medium education instead of an IELTS report. Those whose previous education was not conducted in English must provide proof of English proficiency.
Do I need work experience?
No prior work experience is required according to the fellowship information provided in the source.
How long is the PhD fellowship?
The standard fellowship duration is three years.
Can I apply to more than one university?
Yes. Applicants may choose up to two programs or departments at one or two participating universities.
What is the application deadline?
The initial HKPFS application deadline is December 1, 2026, at 12:00 noon Hong Kong Time.
Final Thoughts
The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2027 is a major opportunity for international students looking for funded PhD study in Hong Kong. With 400 fellowships, opportunities across eight universities, an annual stipend, and research and conference travel support, the program can provide substantial financial assistance throughout doctoral study.
If you are planning to pursue a PhD in science, medicine, engineering, technology, humanities, social sciences, or business, review the participating universities and identify suitable programs early.
Most importantly, remember that the process has two stages: first obtain your HKPFS Reference Number through the initial application, then submit the full PhD admission application to your selected university or universities.
Official Application Links
HKPFS Initial Application:
Start the HKPFS Initial Application
Official HKPFS Website:
Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme Official Website
Application Guidance:
HKPFS Guidance Note
Deadline: December 1, 2026
