Elevate Your Academic Career with the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme

Are you considering pursuing a PhD? The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) is an exceptional opportunity designed to attract outstanding students from around the globe to conduct their research at Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU). This prestigious scheme not only provides financial support but also immerses students in a vibrant academic community renowned for its research excellence.

What is the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme?

Established by the Research Grants Council (RGC) of the Hong Kong SAR government, the HKPFS aims to recruit the brightest minds to pursue their doctoral studies in Hong Kong. The scheme encourages applications from candidates of all cultural and ethnic backgrounds who demonstrate academic excellence, research potential, and strong leadership abilities.

Key Benefits of the Fellowship

1. Generous Stipend: Awardees receive a monthly stipend of HK$28,100 (approximately US$3,600), providing substantial financial support throughout their studies.
2. Tuition Waiver: The fellowship covers tuition fees, with amounts varying each academic year. For example, the tuition fee for the academic year 2025/26 is set at HK$44,500 (around US$5,700).
3. Research Travel Allowance: Awardees are provided with HK$14,000 (approximately US$1,790) annually for research-related travel, enhancing their global academic experience.
4. Accommodation: Shared-room accommodation is available for the first two years, providing a supportive living environment as students transition into their research roles.
5. Elite Scholar Award: A special award of HK$40,000 in the first year (and HK$26,000 in subsequent years) is available for top-performing students.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the HKPFS, prospective students must meet specific requirements:

• Hold a higher degree by research or a taught Master’s degree from a recognized institution, or a Bachelor’s degree with first-class honors.
• Exhibit strong communication skills, research capabilities, and leadership potential.
• Non-native English speakers must provide TOEFL or IELTS scores unless their previous education was conducted in English.

Application Process

The application timeline for the 2025/26 academic year is as follows:

• September 1, 2024: Applications open.
• December 1, 2024: Deadline for registration and submission of applications.
• April/May 2025: Notification of results.

Applicants can also explore potential supervisors at HKBU to align their research interests with faculty expertise.

Areas of Research

The HKPFS supports a wide range of research disciplines across various faculties, including:

• Arts and Social Sciences: From Chinese language studies to sociology and social work.
• Business: Covering management, marketing, and finance.
• Science: Including biology, chemistry, and computer science.
• Communication: Focusing on journalism and interactive media.

Why Choose HKBU?

HKBU stands out for its commitment to research excellence and its supportive academic environment. With a focus on interdisciplinary collaboration, students have the opportunity to explore diverse fields and contribute to impactful research.