Unlock Your Future with the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme

Are you dreaming of pursuing a PhD while experiencing the vibrant culture of Hong Kong? The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) offers an incredible opportunity for exceptional students to undertake research at one of Asia’s leading universities, the City University of Hong Kong (CityU). This scheme not only supports your academic journey but also provides substantial financial backing, making it an attractive option for aspiring researchers worldwide.

What is the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme?

The HKPFS, established by the Research Grants Council of the Hong Kong SAR government, aims to attract talented students from around the globe to pursue their doctoral studies in Hong Kong’s institutions. With a focus on fostering a diverse research community, the scheme seeks candidates who demonstrate outstanding academic performance, research potential, and leadership abilities.

Key Benefits of the Fellowship

1. Financial Support: Awardees receive a generous monthly stipend of HK$28,100 (approximately US$3,602.50) for up to three years. Additionally, a travel allowance of HK$14,000 (around US$1,790) per year is provided for research-related activities.
2. Entrance Scholarships: Beyond the fellowship stipend, successful applicants will also receive an entrance scholarship that covers tuition fees and accommodation expenses for the first year, valued at approximately HK$95,496 (around US$12,243).
3. Comprehensive Research Environment: CityU is renowned for its vibrant research culture and state-of-the-art facilities, offering students the perfect environment to thrive in their academic pursuits.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the HKPFS, candidates must meet specific entrance requirements:

• Hold a higher degree by research or a taught Master’s degree from a recognized university, or a Bachelor’s degree with first-class honors.
• Demonstrate exceptional communication skills, research potential, and leadership abilities.
• Non-native English speakers must provide TOEFL or IELTS scores unless they can prove that their previous education was conducted in English.

Application Process

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

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

Applicants must register on the RGC’s Online Application System and submit a complete application, including supporting documents and references.

Diverse Research Opportunities

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

• Sciences, Medicine, Engineering, and Technology: Areas like Biomedical Engineering, Chemistry, Computer Science, and more.
• Humanities, Social Sciences, and Business Studies: Including fields such as Economics, Law, Management, and Creative Media.

Why Choose CityU?

CityU is not only committed to academic excellence but also to fostering innovation and research that benefits society. With a strong focus on interdisciplinary collaboration, students are encouraged to explore diverse fields and contribute to meaningful projects.