In 2009, the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) was established by the Research Grants Council (RGC) of Hong Kong with the goal of attracting the world’s most talented and promising students to pursue their doctoral studies at universities in Hong Kong.
Embarking on a Doctoral Journey in Hong Kong
Hong Kong is a dynamic society known for its vibrant creativity and a convergence of entrepreneurial spirits. Situated strategically at the heart of the Asian continent, this cosmopolitan city serves as a hub for global interactions, offering not only security but also a rich tapestry of diversity. Within its borders, you’ll find a unique community that values excellence and enjoys a high quality of life.
The educational system in Hong Kong is specifically designed to foster lifelong learning and independent research, cultivating a workforce that is exceptionally motivated and well-versed in entrepreneurship. Additionally, Hong Kong warmly welcomes professionals from all corners of the world, creating an environment that is genuinely global in its outlook.
Hong Kong’s universities, each with their own distinct strengths, provide a wide range of academic disciplines. This collective effort contributes significantly to transforming the city into a prominent center for higher education and the nurturing of exceptional talent, both regionally and globally.
Degree Level:
The 2024-25 Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme, which is fully funded, offers the opportunity to pursue a PhD at universities in Hong Kong, not China. This fellowship supports programs at the PhD and Fellowship levels.
The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme offers a substantial package of benefits to its recipients, including:
- An annual stipend of HK$331,200, which is roughly equivalent to US$42,460.
- Additionally, a yearly allowance of HK$13,800, or approximately US$1,760, is provided for conference attendance and research-related travel.
- These benefits are available to each awardee for a duration of up to three years.
- It’s important to note that for those individuals who require more than three years to complete their PhD degree, the participating universities may offer additional support.
- For specific information regarding this extended support, it is advisable to reach out directly to the respective universities.
Eligible Nationalities:
This fellowship opportunity is available to students from all around the world, regardless of their nationality.
Eligibility Criteria:
Applicants, regardless of their country of origin, prior work experience, or ethnic background, are eligible to apply for this fellowship if they are seeking admission as new full-time PhD students at the following eight universities:
- 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
To be eligible, candidates should demonstrate exceptional qualities in terms of academic performance, research ability or potential, communication and interpersonal skills, as well as leadership abilities.
Application Procedure:
To apply for the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) for the 2024/25 academic year, eligible candidates should follow these steps:
- Initial Application: Begin by submitting an initial application online through the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme Electronic System (HKPFSES). This should be done by December 1, 2023, at 12:00:00 Hong Kong Time. The purpose of this initial application is to obtain an HKPFS Reference Number.
- Select Your Programs: Applicants have the option to choose up to two programs or departments at one or two universities for their PhD studies under the HKPFS 2024/25. It’s crucial to ensure that the chosen programs align with the admission requirements of the selected universities and programs.
- Early Submission: It’s important to note that application deadlines for some universities may closely follow the initial application deadline. To allow sufficient time to complete university applications, candidates are encouraged to submit their initial applications as early as possible.
