HKPFS 2027/28: Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Application Guide
Graduates Corner Team
Author
HKPFS 2027/28: quick answer
The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme supports doctoral research at eight participating universities. The initial 2027/28 application deadline is 1 December 2026 at noon Hong Kong time. Applicants must also submit a separate full university application.
The Pinnacle of Doctoral Funding in Asia
If your goal is to pursue a Ph.D. at one of Hong Kong’s participating universities, the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) stands out as one of the most prestigious, competitive, and lucrative doctoral fellowships in Asia. Established by the Research Grants Council of Hong Kong, it aims to attract the best and brightest minds globally to undertake doctoral research in the region.
1. Lucrative Fellowship Benefits
HKPFS provides an exceptionally generous financial package designed to ensure scholars can focus entirely on groundbreaking research without financial distractions:
Annual Stipend: HK$344,400 per year is the published 2026/27 rate. Confirm the applicable 2027/28 rate with RGC.
Research & Travel Allowance: HK$14,400 per year is the published 2026/27 conference and research travel allowance; confirm the 2027/28 rate.
Tuition Fee Waiver: Tuition fees and any waiver or additional support depend on the university; HKPFS does not establish a universal tuition waiver.
Funding Duration: Fellowship support is provided for up to three years under the scheme’s conditions. Ask the university about funding beyond that period.
2. Participating Top-Tier Universities
This elite fellowship is jointly offered across Hong Kong's eight premier publicly funded universities:
The University of Hong Kong (HKU)
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST)
The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK)
City University of Hong Kong (CityU)
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU)
Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU)
Lingnan University
The Education University of Hong Kong (EdUHK)
3. Application Process & Selection Criteria
Navigating the HKPFS application requires a precise two-step submission framework:
Initial Application: Apply first through the HKPFS Electronic System (ES) Portal to obtain a unique Reference Number.
University Application: Use that exact Reference Number to submit a full program application directly through the admissions portal of your chosen participating university.
Selection Criteria: Assessment considers academic excellence, research ability and potential, communication and interpersonal skills, and leadership abilities. Check university language requirements.
Key Deadline: The 2027/28 initial HKPFS application closes on 1 December 2026 at noon Hong Kong time. Complete the separate university application by its own deadline.
Pro-Tip for Applicants
Securing a prospective supervisor's backing through early communication and drafting a robust, watertight Research Proposal are useful preparation steps; neither guarantees selection.
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Official source and application check
Updated 9 October 2026. Verify the current call, eligibility, funding conditions and deadline before applying: HKPFS official application system.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need two applications for HKPFS?
Yes. Obtain the HKPFS reference number through the initial application, then use it in the full university application before that university’s deadline.
Does HKPFS include a universal tuition waiver?
No universal tuition waiver is established by the scheme. Confirm fees, waivers and additional support with your chosen university.
For more funding routes, explore the Graduates Corner scholarship directory. Always use the award provider’s official instructions for your application.
