Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2027 offers a competitive annual stipend of about 344,400 Hong Kong dollars plus a research travel allowance for new full time PhD students at eight public universities. The initial application closes on 1 December 2026 at noon Hong Kong time. Students looking at other Asian options can also review the NTU Nanyang Global Scholarship.
Overview
- Host country, Hong Kong
- Host schools, Eight publicly funded universities
- Level of study, PhD
- Value, Annual stipend HK$344,400 plus HK$14,400 travel allowance
- Nationality, Open to all nationalities
- Funded by, Research Grants Council of Hong Kong
Benefits of the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2027
First, the core award pays a high monthly living stipend. Also, a yearly conference and research travel allowance is included. Plus, many universities add tuition waivers or extra cash awards. In short, the package supports living and research costs for up to three years.
- Annual stipend of approximately HK$344,400
- HK$14,400 annual travel and research allowance
- Possible additional university support and fee waivers
Who Should Apply
Outstanding candidates seeking full time PhD places in Hong Kong should apply. Those comparing European fully funded PhD routes can check the ISTA PhD Positions.
Eligibility Requirements
Overall, applicants must meet these points.
- Seeking admission as a new full time PhD student at one of the eight universities
- Outstanding academic performance and research potential
- Strong communication, interpersonal and leadership skills
- Initial RGC application submitted by 1 December 2026 noon Hong Kong time
Separate University Applications Required
The RGC reference number is needed for the full university applications. Deadlines at each school vary. Readers interested in UK PhD funding can also see the LSE PhD Studentships.
Deadlines come up quickly. The Deadline countdown shows how many days you have left for any scholarship.
Required Documents
- Initial online application to the RGC system
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- Research proposal or statement
- Letters of recommendation
- English proficiency evidence where required
How to Apply
First, submit the initial application through the RGC HKPFS electronic system by 1 December 2026 noon Hong Kong time to obtain a reference number. Next, use that number to submit full applications to up to two chosen programmes or universities before their individual deadlines. Then, prepare for possible interviews. Official information is on the Research Grants Council page. Applicants exploring other PhD options can review the Edinburgh Doctoral College Scholarships.
Application Deadline
Initial applications close on 1 December 2026 at 12:00 noon Hong Kong time. University application deadlines are separate and usually around the same date. The cycle is open now.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2027 is a strong fully funded stipend route for top PhD candidates. However, competition is high with only 400 awards, so prepare strong applications. Readers looking at Italian Masters funding can check the Politecnico di Milano Merit Scholarships 2027.
If you are not sure which scholarships you qualify for, the Eligibility checker compares your nationality, study level, grades and English score with each scholarship's published rules.
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