The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) 2025, established by the Research Grants Council (RGC) of Hong Kong, is now open for applications. Launched in 2009, the scheme aims to attract top international talent to pursue PhD studies at Hong Kong’s leading universities. With a reputation for excellence in research and education, Hong Kong is calling for the brightest minds from around the globe to apply for this prestigious fellowship.
OPPORTUNITY AT A GLANCE:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Scheme | Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) 2025-2026 |
| Established | 2009 |
| Purpose | Attract top international talent for PhD studies in Hong Kong |
| Financial Support | – Annual stipend: HK$337,200 (approx. US$43,230) |
| – Conference and research-related travel allowance: HK$14,000 (approx. US$1,790) per year | |
| – Fellowship duration: Up to 3 years; additional support may be provided by the university for longer programs | |
| Number of Fellowships | 400 |
| Eligibility | – New full-time PhD students at participating universities |
| – Outstanding academic performance, research potential, communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills | |
| Participating Universities | – The Chinese University of Hong Kong |
| – City University of Hong Kong | |
| – Lingnan University | |
| – The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology | |
| – Hong Kong Baptist University | |
| – The Education University of Hong Kong | |
| – The University of Hong Kong | |
| – The Hong Kong Polytechnic University | |
| Application Process | – Initial Application: Online via HKPFSES by 1 December 2024, 12:00:00 Hong Kong Time |
| – Full Applications: Submit to selected PhD programs at up to two universities by 1 December 2024, 11:59 PM Hong Kong Time | |
| Application System | Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme Electronic System (HKPFSES) |
Fact About Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS)
- Global Prestige: The HKPFS invites the brightest minds from around the world to undertake their PhD studies in one of Hong Kong’s elite universities, known for their exceptional research output and global rankings.
- Cutting-Edge Research: Hong Kong’s universities are renowned for groundbreaking research in diverse fields, from quantum computing to biomedical sciences, positioning students at the forefront of innovation.
- Generous Funding: The fellowship offers a substantial annual stipend and a research grant, ensuring that students can focus solely on their research without financial stress. This support is among the most competitive globally.
- World-Class Facilities: PhD candidates have access to state-of-the-art laboratories and resources, including advanced technology and expert mentorship, fostering an environment of creativity and discovery.
- Strategic Location: Hong Kong’s unique position as a gateway between East and West provides unparalleled opportunities for international collaboration and exposure to diverse academic and professional networks.
- Innovative Ecosystem: With its dynamic economy and vibrant research community, Hong Kong is a hub for innovation, attracting industry leaders and offering numerous opportunities for internships and collaborations.
- Cultural Experience: Studying in Hong Kong offers a rich cultural experience, blending modern city life with deep-rooted traditions, making it a fascinating place to live and learn.
- High Impact Research: The research conducted under the HKPFS often leads to significant societal and scientific advancements, contributing to global knowledge and addressing pressing challenges.
- Diverse Academic Community: The program fosters a vibrant, multicultural academic environment, bringing together students and researchers from various backgrounds and disciplines.
- Post-Graduation Opportunities: Graduates of the scheme often secure prestigious positions in academia, industry, and government, leveraging their Hong Kong experience to advance their careers globally.
Rewards For Hongkong HKPFS Fellowship 2025-2026
The HKPFS Fellowship offers significant financial support to its recipients, ensuring they can focus entirely on their research. Each awardee will receive:
- An annual stipend of HK$337,200 (approximately US$43,230)
- A conference and research-related travel allowance of HK$14,000 (approximately US$1,790) per year
The fellowship is granted for a period of up to three years. If a PhD program exceeds this duration, additional financial support may be provided by the university. For the 2025/26 academic year, 400 PhD Fellowships will be awarded, making this one of the most competitive and sought-after opportunities globally.
Eligibility For Hongkong HKPFS Fellowship 2025-2026
Applicants from any country, regardless of work experience or ethnic background, are eligible to apply. The key requirements include:
- Seeking admission as a new full-time PhD student in one of the eight participating universities.
- Demonstrating outstanding academic performance, research ability or potential, communication and interpersonal skills, and leadership abilities.
Eligible Universities For Hongkong HKPFS Fellowship 2025-2026
The following prestigious universities in Hong Kong are part of the HKPFS 2025:
- The Chinese University of Hong Kong
- City University of Hong Kong
- Lingnan University
- The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
- Hong Kong Baptist University
- The Education University of Hong Kong
- The University of Hong Kong
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
How To Apply For Hongkong HKPFS Fellowship 2025-2026
The application process for the HKPFS 2025 is straightforward but requires careful attention to deadlines:
- Initial Application: Submit an online Initial Application through the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme Electronic System (HKPFSES by 1 December 2024, 12:00:00 Hong Kong Time to obtain an HKPFS Reference Number.
- Full Applications: After obtaining the reference number, submit full applications to your selected PhD programs at the participating universities. Applicants can choose up to two programs/departments at one or two universities.
The deadline for both the Initial Application and the full applications to the universities is 1 December 2024, 11:59 PM Hong Kong Time.
Source: https://cerg1.ugc.edu.hk/