Hey, future PhD star! Want to study in a vibrant city with top universities for free? The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2026/27 is your golden ticket. This fully funded program by Hong Kong’s government invites students from every country to earn a PhD at one of eight world-class universities. For 2026/27, they boosted the awards from 300 to 400 spots, so more chances for you! No application fee, no work experience needed, and open to everyone, no matter your background. As a scholarship mentor who’s guided hundreds to global programs, I can say this one is a gem: trusted, generous, and perfect for building your future. Ready to explore? Let’s make it super simple, like chatting with a fifth-grader.
Quick Facts on the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2026/27
Here’s the easy rundown to see if this fits you:
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Where | Hong Kong: a buzzing city with global vibes |
| Degree | PhD (3 years) |
| Funded By | Research Grants Council (RGC) of Hong Kong |
| Fully Funded | Yes: stipend, travel cash, tuition covered |
| Number of Awards | 400 fellowships (up from 300!) |
| Deadline | December 1, 2025 (noon Hong Kong time) |
| Start Date | September 2026 |
Love free study options? Check out the Asia Pacific University ADB Scholarship 2026 in Japan for another fully funded path.
Why Is the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship So Cool?
This program, started in 2009, brings the world’s brightest minds to Hong Kong, a hub of innovation in Asia. You’ll study in cutting-edge labs, meet students from everywhere, and grow your career. For 2026/27, they added more spots and new research fields like AI ethics. I’ve seen students land big jobs in tech or academia after this. It’s backed by the RGC, so it’s super reliable and respected globally.
Awesome Benefits of the Fellowship
This scholarship makes your PhD journey worry-free. Here’s what you get:
- Yearly Stipend: HK$340,800 (about US$43,690) for living, books, and fun.
- Travel Allowance: HK$14,200 (about US$1,820) for conferences or research trips.
- Full Tuition: Free classes at your chosen university.
- Extra Support: Need more than 3 years? Your uni might add funds.
- No Work Experience Needed: Fresh grads or career switchers welcome.
- Bonus: Live in Hong Kong, a safe, exciting city with English-friendly campuses.
These perks come straight from the RGC, a trusted name. My students love using the travel cash for global conferences! For another cool program, see the NTU Global Connect Fellowship 2026 in Singapore.
How Long Is It?
The fellowship covers a 3-year PhD program, starting September 2026. If your research needs a bit more time, some universities offer extra help. Perfect for diving deep into your passion.
More Opportunities:
- Eric Bleumink Scholarships 2026 in Netherlands | Fully Funded
- Hamad Bin Khalifa University Scholarship In Qatar 2026
What Can You Study?
Pick from tons of hot fields that match 2026 job trends:
- Sciences (like biotech or physics)
- Medicine (health research, anyone?)
- Engineering and Technology (AI, robotics)
- Humanities (history, languages)
- Social Sciences (psychology, sociology)
- Business Studies (think startups or finance)
New for 2026: More focus on green tech and data science. Each university has its own specialties, so check their websites for the full list.
Which Universities Can You Choose?
Eight top Hong Kong schools join this program, all ranked high globally:
- City University of Hong Kong
- Hong Kong Baptist University
- Lingnan University
- The Chinese University of Hong Kong
- The Education University of Hong Kong
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
- The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
- The University of Hong Kong
You can apply to up to two programs or departments at one or two of these schools. They’re modern, English-friendly, and packed with research labs.
Who Can Apply? Easy Rules
This fellowship is open to everyone, anywhere. Here’s what you need:
- Be from any country (no limits on gender, ethnicity, or beliefs).
- Be a new, full-time PhD student starting in 2026.
- English Proof: If your past degree wasn’t in English, submit an IELTS or TOEFL score. If it was, you’re good.
- Pick one or two of the eight listed universities.
- No work experience required, so fresh grads can shine.
Tip from me: Start chatting with professors at your dream school now. It helps! For a German option, check the Bonn International Fellowships 2026.
How to Apply for the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship 2026/27
Applying is straightforward and online. No fees! Follow these simple steps:
- Start Online: By December 1, 2025 (noon Hong Kong time), make an initial application on the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme Electronic System (HKPFSES) to get a Reference Number.
- Choose Programs: Pick up to two PhD programs or departments at one or two universities.
- Apply to Universities: Use your Reference Number to send full applications to your chosen schools. Include grades, CV, research plan, and English proof if needed.
- Check Requirements: Each university has its own rules, so read them carefully.
- Submit Everything: Finish all parts by December 1, 2025.
Results come out by early 2026. Start early to avoid stress! Find all university details and the application system on the official RGC website.
VISIT HERE TO APPLY FOR THE HONG KONG PHD FELLOWSHIP
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I get a PhD fellowship in Hong Kong? Apply through the HKPFS, a trusted program by the RGC for fully funded PhDs.
- What’s the stipend? You get about US$43,690 yearly, plus US$1,820 for travel and research.
- What’s this fellowship about? It attracts top talent worldwide to study PhDs in Hong Kong’s best universities.
- Why choose it? Fully funded, 400 awards, open to all, and you study in Asia’s heart.
Why Go for HKPFS in 2026/27? My Insider Tip
Hong Kong’s universities are global leaders with vibrant campuses and English instruction. With 400 spots, your odds are better than ever. The city’s safe, modern, and full of career connections. I’ve watched students from this program land roles at tech giants or top labs. New for 2026: More AI and sustainability research options. As your mentor, I say this is your chance to shine globally.
Apply before December 1, 2025, and let me know if you need tips. Hong Kong’s waiting for your big ideas!
