The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) was launched by the Hong Kong Research Grants Council (RGC) in 2009 with the aim of attracting the best minds and outstanding students from around the world to pursue research-based PhD programmes at government-funded universities in Hong Kong.
Each year, around 300 PhD Scholarships in Hong Kong are awarded to students with excellent academic and research performance.
Funding Details and Benefits
Basic HKPFS Fellowship
- Monthly Stipend: HK$28,400
- Conference and Research-related Travel Allowance: HK$14,200 per year.
- Funding Duration: Up to 3 years.
For students admitted to a 4-year PhD programme, the University of Hong Kong (HKU) will provide the same level of support in the fourth year.
Additional Benefits via the HKU Presidential PhD Scholarship:
- Additional Financial Support for Research and Living Expenses:
- HK$40,000 in the first year.
- HK$20,000 per year in subsequent normative study years.
- HK$40,000 in the first year.
- Full Waiver of Tuition Fees throughout the study period (fees range between HK$44,500 and HK$49,500 per year depending on the academic year).
- Additional Financial Support for outstanding students with exceptional research achievements, allowing an extension of study for one additional year beyond the normative period.
- Guaranteed Hall Accommodation in the first year, with the possibility of renewal.
Who Can Apply?
The fellowship is open to all new applicants to full-time PhD programmes in government-funded higher education institutions in Hong Kong, regardless of nationality or ethnic background.
Applicants should demonstrate:
- Outstanding academic performance
- Proven or potential research ability
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Clear leadership abilities
Important Dates
- Application Opens: September 1, 2025
- Application Deadline: December 1, 2025 (12:00 noon Hong Kong Time, GMT +8)
How to Apply
The application process consists of two main steps:
Step 1: Application via RGC
- Submit an initial application through the HKPFS Electronic System of the RGC.
- Deadline: December 1, 2025, at 12:00 noon (Hong Kong Time).
- Applicants will receive an HKPFS Reference Number after submission.
Important Notes:
- Applicants may choose up to two programmes/departments from one or two universities.
- Choices cannot be changed after the deadline.
- If successful, only one fellowship offer will be made.
- Declining an offer from the first-choice university will not transfer the offer to the second-choice university.
- Applicants intending to study at the University of Hong Kong (HKU) must select HKU as their first choice.
Step 2: Application via HKU
- After the initial application to RGC, applicants must submit a full application through the HKU Online Application System.
- Applicants must indicate that the application is under HKPFS and provide the reference number obtained from RGC.
- Deadline: December 1, 2025
Additional Notes
Since the 2019/2020 academic year, students enrolled in UGC-funded Dual/Joint PhD Programmes that require at least two years of normative study at local universities are also eligible for HKPFS support during their study period in Hong Kong.
For the remaining period within the normative study length, the University of Hong Kong (HKU) will provide equivalent support.
