The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2027-2028 will award 400 fully funded PhD fellowships in the 2027/28 academic year for study at leading universities in Hong Kong. The scheme is open to applicants worldwide and is aimed at academically strong students with research potential, leadership qualities and communication skills.
Key facts
- Research Grants Council is introducing the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2027-28.
- The programme will award 400 PhD fellowships in the 2027/28 academic year.
- Applicants from any country or region can apply regardless of nationality, ethnicity, academic background or religion.
- The fellowship is presented as fully funded and includes travel allowance, research expenses and an annual stipend.
- Fields listed include physical sciences, medicine and biology, engineering, humanities, social sciences and business studies.
What does this mean for PhD applicants?
For prospective PhD students, the scheme expands access to funded research opportunities in Hong Kong across multiple disciplines. It is positioned for international applicants who want to study at one of the city’s major universities while receiving financial support for travel, research costs and living support through the annual stipend.
Who can apply for the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme?
Applicants from any country or region can apply. The scheme says it seeks students with outstanding academic excellence, research ability and potential, leadership qualities and communication skills. It also says eligibility is not restricted by nationality, ethnicity, academic background or religion.
Which universities and fields are included?
The fellowship lists eight host universities: Lingnan University, The University of Hong Kong, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Baptist University, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University and The Education University of Hong Kong. Available fields include physical sciences, medicine and biology, engineering, humanities, social sciences and business studies.
What support does the fellowship provide?
The scheme is described as fully funded and says the host organisation will cover expenses related to the fellowship, including travel allowance, research expenses and an annual stipend, with other support if required. The fellowship duration is three years.
Why is this scheme significant for students?
The award gives high-performing international candidates a chance to pursue doctoral research at top Hong Kong universities without bearing the full cost of study. Because the fellowship spans several disciplines and is open globally, it is positioned as a broad entry point into research training in Hong Kong.
