Scholarship Overview
What Is the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme?
The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) is a competitive, university-wide scholarship programme established by the Research Grants Council (RGC) of Hong Kong. It attracts outstanding students worldwide to pursue PhD studies at participating universities in Hong Kong. The scheme is designed to support the development of research talent and strengthen Hong Kong’s position as a hub for advanced research and innovation.
For researchers from Zimbabwe and the SADC region, this represents a significant opportunity to access world-class doctoral training in Asia with full financial support.
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Participating Universities
Eight universities participate in HKPFS 2027/28. All share the same full application deadline of 1 December 2026:
- 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 Research Grants Council does not publish exhaustive eligibility criteria. However, based on the application process, candidates must:
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- Seek admission to a PhD programme at one or two participating universities
- Comply with individual university admission requirements
- Demonstrate outstanding academic merit, research ability, and communication skills
- Obtain an HKPFS Reference Number before submitting university applications
There is no explicit nationality restriction. African and Zimbabwean applicants are eligible to compete on equal terms with candidates globally.
What the Fellowship Covers
The Research Grants Council does not specify exact award amounts in the published materials. Fellowship benefits are determined by the RGC and administered through the awarding universities. Applicants should consult individual university websites for detailed funding information.
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Application Process: Two-Step Procedure
Step 1: Submit Initial Application to RGC
All candidates must first complete an Initial Application through the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme Electronic System (HKPFSES).
- Opening date: 1 September 2026 at 12:00 noon Hong Kong Time
- Deadline: 1 December 2026 at 12:00:00 Hong Kong Time
- Platform: HKPFSES – Initial Application
- Outcome: HKPFS Reference Number required for Step 2
Applicants may select up to two programmes or departments across one or two universities. A guidance note in PDF format is available to assist with completing the Initial Application.
Step 2: Submit Full Applications to Universities
After obtaining the HKPFS Reference Number, applicants must submit full PhD applications to their selected universities, quoting their reference number.
- Deadline for all eight universities: 1 December 2026 at 11:59pm Hong Kong Time
- Each university sets its own admission requirements, regulations, and policies
- Programme-specific information must be obtained directly from universities
Critical timing note: University deadlines immediately follow the Initial Application deadline. Submit your Initial Application as early as possible to ensure adequate time for university applications.
Important Considerations for African Applicants
Time zone management is essential. Hong Kong Time (HKT) is UTC+8. For Zimbabwe and SADC applicants, this is 6 hours ahead of Central Africa Time (CAT, UTC+2). Plan submissions accordingly to avoid last-minute technical issues.
Internet connectivity and documentation preparation should be completed well in advance. The compressed timeline between Initial Application and university deadlines leaves minimal margin for error.
Selection and Award Process
The Research Grants Council coordinates the selection process. Universities nominate candidates based on academic excellence, research potential, and programme fit. Final awards are determined competitively across the applicant pool.
Official Resources
All applicants must verify current information through official channels, as procedures may be updated.