Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme Fully Funded Scholarships for International Students

Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme Fully Funded Scholarships for International Students

Bachelors

Selected courses offered by the university

Last Date 30 September 2025

Introduction

Are you looking for a fully funded PhD opportunity abroad in 2026? The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) for the academic year 2026/27 is now open for applications — offering 400 prestigious, fully funded PhD scholarships at some of the top universities in Asia.This competitive scholarship program welcomes students from all nationalities, including Pakistani students, to pursue cutting-edge doctoral research in a global research hub — Hong Kong.

Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS)

Launched in 2009 by the Research Grants Council (RGC) of Hong Kong, the HKPFS aims to attract exceptional international students to pursue full-time PhD programs in Hong Kong’s world-class institutions. This is one of the most generous and prestigious PhD scholarships globally — offering full tuition, living allowance, and research funding.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Must be applying for full-time PhD admission to any of the participating Hong Kong universities.
• Open to international students from all countries, including Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Nigeria, etc.
• Strong academic record (first-class or high second-class honours)
• Research experience and potential
• Good communication and leadership skills

Note: You do not need to be currently residing in Hong Kong or have studied there before.

Participating Universities in Hong Kong

You can apply to any of the following eight public universities under the HKPFS:

• 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)

Each university has its own application process and deadlines, so make sure to apply directly to the university as well as through the HKPFS portal.

Scholarship Benefits

Each awardee of the HKPFS receives:

• Annual stipend: HK$340,800 (≈ USD 43,700)
• Research-related travel allowance: HK$14,200 per year
• Tuition fee waiver at most universities
• Additional financial support may be available from the chosen university for programs that exceed three years.
• PhD Program Start: September 2026

Fields of Study

HKPFS supports PhD research in all academic fields, including but not limited to:

• Science & Technology
• Engineering
• Medicine & Health
• Social Sciences
• Humanities
• Business & Economics
• Education

Study in Hong Kong

• Global recognition of degrees
• World-class research facilities
• International exposure with English as the main medium of instruction
• Located in Asia’s innovation and finance hub
• Diverse academic community and modern student life

HKPFS for Pakistani Students

This fellowship is a great opportunity for Pakistani students aspiring to pursue doctoral research abroad. With no tuition fees, a high living stipend, and world-class education, it eliminates financial and geographic barriers. Pakistani students have previously been selected and are actively studying in Hong Kong under HKPFS.

If you have:

• A strong academic record (GPA 3.5+ or First Division)
• IELTS or TOEFL scores (required by most universities)
• A well-prepared research proposal

Then you are a strong candidate.

Step-by-Step Guide)

• Get a reference number and use it to submit a full PhD application to your selected university.
• Wait for shortlisting and interview by the university and selection panel.

Final Tips for Applicants

• Start early – gather recommendation letters and write your research proposal well in advance.
• Connect with potential supervisors at your chosen university.
• Ensure your Statement of Purpose (SOP) and CV clearly show your research interest and leadership skills.
• Prepare for online interviews if shortlisted.

Conclusion

The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2026/27 is a rare and prestigious opportunity for aspiring PhD students worldwide, including from Pakistan. If you are committed to a research career and ready to study in a globally ranked environment, this scholarship can transform your future.

Apply now