The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2026-27 is now open offering fully funded opportunities for international students including those from Pakistan to pursue world-class doctoral research in Hong Kong.

Pakistani students seeking fully funded international research opportunities can now apply for the prestigious Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) 2026-27 announced by the Hong Kong Research Grants Council.

The program will award 400 fellowships for the academic year beginning September 2026, covering tuition, generous stipends and research-related support for up to three years of study.

What Fellowship Offers

According to details provided by the Hong Kong Research Grants Council, successful candidates will receive:

  • Annual Stipend: HK$340,800 (approx. US$43,690).
  • Research & Travel Allowance: HK$14,200 (approx. US$1,820) per year.
  • Duration: Support for up to three years of PhD study.
  • Additional Funding: Universities may provide extra support if research exceeds three years.

Since its launch in 2009, the scheme has attracted top talent from across the globe, bolstering Hong Kong’s reputation as a hub for advanced research and higher education.

Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme

Who Can Apply?

The Hong Kong Fellowship 2026-27 is open to all international students, regardless of background or prior work experience. Applicants must:

  • Apply as new full-time PhD students at one of Hong Kong’s eight participating universities.
  • Hold a recognized bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification.
  • Meet the admission criteria of their chosen university.
  • Demonstrate academic excellence, research ability, communication skills and leadership qualities.

The fellowship covers admission into the following universities:

  1. City University of Hong Kong
  2. Hong Kong Baptist University
  3. Lingnan University
  4. The Chinese University of Hong Kong
  5. The Education University of Hong Kong
  6. The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
  7. The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
  8. The University of Hong Kong

How to Apply

The application process consists of two steps:

  1. Submit an Initial Application via the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme Electronic System (HKPFSES) to obtain a reference number.
  2. Apply directly to up to two PhD programs at one or two of the eight universities, quoting the reference number.

📌 Deadline: The initial application must be completed by December 1, 2025 (Hong Kong time).

Hong Kong PhD Fellowship 2026-27

Selection and Evaluation

Applications will be assessed by expert panels in two categories:

  • Sciences, Medicine, Engineering and Technology
  • Humanities, Social Sciences and Business Studies

While academic excellence remains the primary consideration, evaluators will also weigh:

  • Research potential
  • Communication and interpersonal skills
  • Leadership ability

Why Pakistani Students Should Apply

Pakistan has a growing pool of young researchers seeking international exposure. With full funding and access to cutting-edge facilities, the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme offers an opportunity to:

  • Join global research networks.
  • Access internationally ranked universities.
  • Pursue research in diverse fields from technology and medicine to humanities and social sciences.

Education experts note that the scheme aligns with Pakistan’s need for highly skilled researchers who can contribute to both academia and the knowledge economy upon their return.

Outlook

With 400 fellowships available for the 2026/27 academic year, Pakistani students stand a strong chance to secure world-class training under this program. Applicants are encouraged to prepare early, ensuring strong research proposals and fulfilling university admission requirements before the December deadline.