Scholarship Overview
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Overview
The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) 2027/28 is a competitive, fully funded doctoral scholarship administered by the Research Grants Council (RGC) of Hong Kong. The scheme enables outstanding students worldwide—including applicants from Zimbabwe and the SADC region—to pursue PhD studies at one of eight participating universities in Hong Kong.
The fellowship is designed to attract the best and brightest doctoral candidates to Hong Kong’s higher education system. It provides comprehensive financial support covering tuition, living expenses, and research costs for the duration of the PhD programme.
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Participating Universities
Applicants may select up to two programmes or departments across one or two of the following 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
Eligibility Requirements
The scheme is open to candidates regardless of nationality, previous residence, and ethnic origin. To be eligible, applicants must:
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- Seek admission as new full-time PhD students in the 2027/28 academic year
- Not have been enrolled in a PhD programme at any of the participating universities previously
- Meet the specific admission requirements of their selected universities and programmes
- Demonstrate outstanding academic performance, research ability, and communication skills
For African applicants from Zimbabwe and SADC countries, this represents a significant opportunity to access world-class doctoral training without financial burden. No prior connection to Hong Kong is required.
Application Process
The HKPFS application involves a two-step process with strict deadlines.
Step 1: Initial Application to Research Grants Council
Submit an Initial Application online through the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme Electronic System (HKPFSES) to obtain an HKPFS Reference Number.
- Opening date: 1 September 2026 at 12:00 noon Hong Kong Time
- Deadline: 1 December 2026 at 12:00:00 Hong Kong Time
Applicants may choose up to two programmes or departments at one or two universities. Submit early, as university deadlines follow immediately.
Step 2: Full Application to Proposed Universities
After obtaining your HKPFS Reference Number, submit full PhD applications to your selected universities, quoting your reference number. All eight participating universities share the same deadline:
- University application deadline: 1 December 2026 at 11:59pm Hong Kong Time
Each university sets its own requirements for PhD admission, application methods, regulations, and policies. Consult individual university websites for programme-specific information.
What the Fellowship Covers
The Research Grants Council has not published specific award amounts for the 2027/28 cycle. The fellowship traditionally provides:
- Full tuition coverage for the PhD programme duration
- Monthly living allowance
- Conference and research-related travel allowance
Exact figures will be confirmed by the RGC and individual universities.
Important Considerations for SADC Applicants
Applicants from Zimbabwe and neighbouring SADC countries should note:
- Hong Kong Time (HKT) is UTC+8, which is 6 hours ahead of Zimbabwe Standard Time (CAT, UTC+2)
- The 1 December 2026 deadline falls at 06:00:00 CAT—plan submissions accordingly
- English is the primary medium of instruction and research at all participating universities
- No Chinese language proficiency is required for most programmes
- Visa requirements for Hong Kong should be checked early with the nearest Chinese diplomatic mission
Selection Criteria
Fellowships are awarded based on:
- Academic excellence
- Research ability and potential
- Communication and interpersonal skills
- Leadership abilities
Universities nominate candidates to the RGC, which makes final selections. Competition is intense; only exceptional candidates are successful.
Key Resources
Download the Guidance Note for completing the Initial Application (PDF format) from the official HKPFS Electronic System. This document provides detailed instructions on preparing a competitive application.
Official scholarship page: https://cerg1.ugc.edu.hk/hkpfs/apply.html
You apply directly with the provider. We never charge for applications or ask for payment details. How we verify scholarships
