Project Overview
About the Position
The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) 2027/28 is run by Hong Kong's Research Grants Council (RGC). It awards 400 fully funded PhD fellowships across all disciplines at Hong Kong's eight UGC-funded universities. Each fellowship carries an annual stipend of HK$344,400 (approximately US$44,150) plus a HK$14,400 (approximately US$1,840) annual conference and research travel allowance.
Financial Coverage
- Annual stipend of HK$344,400 (approximately HK$28,700 per month) paid for up to three years of full-time PhD study.
- Conference and research-related travel allowance of HK$14,400 per year.
- Beyond three years: additional support may be available directly from the chosen university.
- Tuition arrangements vary by university; confirm with chosen institution's graduate school.
Participating Universities (8)
- City University of Hong Kong (CityU)
- Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU)
- Lingnan University (LU)
- The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK)
- The Education University of Hong Kong (EdUHK)
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU)
- The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST)
- The University of Hong Kong (HKU)
Eligibility and Requirements
- Seeking admission as a new full-time PhD student at one of the eight participating universities.
- All nationalities eligible.
- Must satisfy admission requirements of chosen university and program.
- Selection looks for: outstanding academic performance, excellent research ability and potential, communication and leadership abilities, international exposure.
About Research Grants Council of Hong Kong
Research Grants Council is an advisory body on research funding under Hong Kong's University Grants Committee. RGC supports academic research through competitive funding schemes and administers the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme. Its activities help develop research capacity and doctoral education, with eligibility and application requirements set by individual programmes.
Official website: https://www.ugc.edu.hk
Application dates
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Applications open (HKPFSES) | 1 September 2026 |
| RGC initial application deadline | 1 December 2026, 12:00 noon HKT |
| University application deadlines | Early December 2026 (varies) |
| Results announced | By May 2027 |
| Fellowship begins | September 2027 |
Application Process (Two-Stage)
Stage 1 - RGC Initial Application:
- Register on HKPFSES at cerg1.ugc.edu.hk/hkpfs. No application fee.
- Select up to two programs/departments at one or two universities.
- Upload research proposal (typically 1,000 words), research experience, publications, and contact details of two academic referees.
- Submit by 1 December 2026, 12:00 noon HKT.
- Receive HKPFS Reference Number via email.
Stage 2 - Full University Application:
- Submit full PhD admission application to chosen university(ies), quoting HKPFS Reference Number.
- Requirements include: online application form, official transcripts, research proposal, personal statement, two academic recommendation letters.
- University application fees apply (varies by institution, e.g., HKBU charges HK$450).
- Deadlines vary by university, typically early December.
Official Link
- HKPFS main page: https://cerg1.ugc.edu.hk/hkpfs/index.html
- How to Apply: https://cerg1.ugc.edu.hk/hkpfs/apply.html
- HKPFSES Initial Application System: https://cerg1.ugc.edu.hk/hkpfs/InitApp.do
Important Notes
- Two-stage application is mandatory. Completing only one stage invalidates the fellowship application.
- Register on HKPFSES early to secure Reference Number before university deadlines.
- Referee reports must be completed within the tight December window.
- Some university deadlines land within days of the RGC cutoff.
Contact
Questions about this position, eligibility or the application process should be raised through the contact channel given on the official announcement page (see the Official Link section above). Always quote the position reference in your message so the admissions or HR team can route your enquiry quickly.
More Official Pages for This Scheme
Application guides
- How to Email a PhD Supervisor: 7 Templates and Practical Tips
- How to Read a PhD Job Advert: Funding, Eligibility and Application Steps
How to Apply
Submit your application through the official portal before the deadline: 1 December 2026 (12:00 noon HKT). Read the eligibility requirements carefully and prepare all requested documents — early applications are strongly recommended for competitive awards.
Frequently asked questions
Drawn from this listing's own record. Always confirm the details on the official source before applying.
What is the deadline for Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2027/28 - Fully Funded?
The application deadline is 1 December 2026 (1 December 2026 (12:00 noon HKT)). Applications received after that date are not considered, so treat it as a hard cut-off (Asia/Hong_Kong time) and leave time for references and transcripts. Closing time not specified — confirm with the provider before you leave it until the last day: the source names Asia/Hong_Kong but gives no clock time.
Is Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2027/28 - Fully Funded fully funded?
This is a fully funded award: tuition is covered and a living stipend is provided for the duration of the programme. HK$344,400/year stipend, HK$14,400/year travel allowance..
Who is eligible to apply for Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2027/28 - Fully Funded?
This opportunity is open to applicants worldwide. Host-country status is not a requirement, although you must still satisfy the visa rules for Hong Kong. Applications are assessed by Research Grants Council of Hong Kong.
How do I apply for Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2027/28 - Fully Funded?
Applications for Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2027/28 - Fully Funded are submitted directly to Research Grants Council of Hong Kong through the provider's own application portal — use the Apply button on this page to open it. NextApply does not process applications or charge a fee.
Is an English proficiency test required for Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2027/28 - Fully Funded?
Yes — an English-language certificate is required for this listing. Check the exact band expected on the official source, since it can differ by programme. Requirements for Hong Kong are published by the provider.
What study level does Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2027/28 - Fully Funded offer?
This listing is offered at PhD level. That describes the qualification on offer, not a credential you must already hold — check the provider's stated entry requirements before applying.