Research Grants Council PhD Fellowships 2027 Offer HK$344,400 Annually and Research Travel Funding
Research Grants Council PhD Fellowships 2027 Offer HK$344,400 Annually and Research Travel Funding. The Research Grants Council (RGC) of Hong Kong is inviting applications for the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) 2027/2028, an international doctoral funding programme offering 400 fellowships to outstanding students from around the world.
The fellowship provides an annual stipend of HK$344,400, equivalent to approximately HK$28,700 per month, together with an additional HK$14,400 annual conference and research-related travel allowance.
The funding is available for up to three years and supports full-time PhD research at eight University Grants Committee-funded universities in Hong Kong.
The programme welcomes applicants of all nationalities, including students from Zimbabwe and other African countries. Candidates from different academic disciplines can apply, provided they meet the admission requirements of their chosen university and demonstrate outstanding academic achievement, research ability, communication skills and leadership potential.
The 2027/2028 competition is particularly relevant to graduates who want to pursue doctoral research in science, engineering, medicine, technology, business, humanities and social sciences.
Applications opened on 1 September 2026 and close on 1 December 2026 at 12:00 noon Hong Kong Time.
Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2027/2028: Quick overview
| Opportunity detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Programme | Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme |
| Funding organisation | Research Grants Council |
| Country | Hong Kong |
| Academic year | 2027/2028 |
| Study level | PhD / Doctoral |
| Number of fellowships | 400 |
| Eligible nationalities | All nationalities |
| Participating universities | Eight |
| Study format | Full-time, on campus |
| Annual stipend | HK$344,400 |
| Monthly stipend equivalent | HK$28,700 |
| Annual research and conference travel allowance | HK$14,400 |
| Funding duration | Up to three years |
| Application opening | 1 September 2026 |
| Application deadline | 1 December 2026 |
| Closing time | 12:00 noon Hong Kong Time |
| Expected results | By May 2027 |
| Expected academic commencement | September 2027 |
| Application method | RGC online system and university admission portals |
1. About the Research Grants Council of Hong Kong
Research Grants Council PhD Fellowships 2027 Offer HK$344,400 Annually and Research Travel Funding
The Research Grants Council is a government-appointed advisory body in Hong Kong responsible for supporting and coordinating academic research funding.
Established in 1991, the council promotes research excellence and supports the development of Hong Kong as an international centre for higher education and research.
One of its major initiatives is the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme, established in 2009 to attract talented researchers from around the world.
The programme is designed to encourage outstanding international students to pursue doctoral studies at Hong Kong universities and contribute to the region’s research environment.
Through the fellowship, recipients receive financial support while undertaking full-time research under the supervision of experienced academics.
The programme covers a broad range of academic disciplines and welcomes applications from students with different educational and professional backgrounds.
2. How much does the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship pay?
The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship provides a substantial financial package to successful candidates.
According to the official 2027/2028 scheme information, the published fellowship rate is HK$344,400 annually, together with a separate annual allowance for research-related travel and conference participation.
Annual stipend
<escape>HK$344,400 per year</escape>
This is equivalent to approximately:
- HK$28,700 per month.
- HK$1,101 per day, using a simple annual average.
- HK$1,033,200 over three years, assuming the published annual rate remains unchanged throughout the funding period.
The stipend is intended to help recipients meet their living expenses while undertaking full-time doctoral research.
Research and conference travel allowance
Awardees also receive:
<escape>HK$14,400 per year</escape>
This allowance supports eligible conference attendance and research-related travel.
It is separate from the annual stipend and is intended to help doctoral researchers participate in academic events, research activities and professional conferences.
Estimated total annual financial support
| Funding component | Annual amount |
|---|---|
| Fellowship stipend | HK$344,400 |
| Conference and research travel allowance | HK$14,400 |
| Total annual support | HK$358,800 |
Estimated support over three years
| Funding component | Three-year amount |
|---|---|
| Fellowship stipend | HK$1,033,200 |
| Research and conference travel allowance | HK$43,200 |
| Total potential support | HK$1,076,400 |
These calculations assume that the published rates remain unchanged throughout the three-year period.
Important funding clarification: The RGC’s official page describes HK$344,400 as the annual stipend rate for the 2026/2027 academic year while confirming that 400 fellowships will be awarded for 2027/2028. Applicants should confirm the applicable rate in their final award documentation.
The fellowship information does not establish a universal separate accommodation or relocation allowance. Applicants should review any additional university-specific support before accepting an offer.
3. Eight universities participating in the fellowship programme
Successful applicants can pursue their doctoral studies at one of eight universities funded by the University Grants Committee (UGC) in Hong Kong.
These institutions offer research opportunities across a wide range of academic disciplines.
1. City University of Hong Kong
City University of Hong Kong is a research-focused institution offering doctoral programmes in areas such as:
- Engineering.
- Science.
- Business.
- Computing.
- Creative media.
- Law.
- Social sciences.
Its research activities cover technology, innovation, artificial intelligence, business development and other interdisciplinary areas.
Official website: https://www.cityu.edu.hk/
2. Hong Kong Baptist University
Hong Kong Baptist University offers postgraduate research programmes across several disciplines, including:
- Business.
- Communication.
- Humanities.
- Social sciences.
- Science.
- Chinese medicine.
- Creative arts.
Its research environment includes opportunities in health, media, culture, technology and social development.
Official website: https://www.hkbu.edu.hk/
3. Lingnan University
Lingnan University is recognised for its liberal arts education and research in areas including:
- Economics.
- Business.
- Humanities.
- Social sciences.
- Data science.
- Public policy.
- Environmental and sustainability studies.
The institution offers doctoral opportunities for students interested in interdisciplinary research.
Official website: https://www.ln.edu.hk/
4. The Chinese University of Hong Kong
The Chinese University of Hong Kong offers doctoral programmes in a broad range of disciplines.
Research areas include:
- Medicine.
- Engineering.
- Science.
- Business administration.
- Education.
- Law.
- Social sciences.
- Arts and humanities.
Its research activities cover health, biotechnology, artificial intelligence, economics and other international research priorities.
Official website: https://www.cuhk.edu.hk/
5. The Education University of Hong Kong
The Education University of Hong Kong specialises in education and related research disciplines.
Its doctoral opportunities include:
- Education.
- Educational psychology.
- Language studies.
- Social sciences.
- Humanities.
- Technology-enhanced learning.
- Education policy.
It may be relevant to candidates interested in educational development, learning systems and public policy.
Official website: https://www.eduhk.hk/
6. The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University offers research opportunities in engineering, technology, business, health and applied sciences.
Relevant research fields include:
- Mechanical engineering.
- Civil engineering.
- Chemical engineering.
- Biomedical engineering.
- Computer science.
- Artificial intelligence.
- Hospitality and tourism.
- Design.
- Business management.
- Applied science.
7. The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology is a research-intensive university with programmes in science, engineering, business and interdisciplinary studies.
Its research areas include:
- Artificial intelligence.
- Data science.
- Robotics.
- Environmental science.
- Chemical and biological engineering.
- Finance.
- Economics.
- Sustainable development.
- Physics and mathematics.
8. The University of Hong Kong
The University of Hong Kong offers doctoral research opportunities across a broad range of disciplines.
Research areas include:
- Medicine.
- Dentistry.
- Engineering.
- Law.
- Business.
- Social sciences.
- Education.
- Science.
- Architecture.
- Humanities.
4. Who is eligible to apply?
Research Grants Council PhD Fellowships 2027 Offer HK$344,400 Annually and Research Travel Funding
The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme is open to applicants from all countries and ethnic backgrounds.
Candidates seeking admission as new full-time PhD students at one of the eight participating universities can apply.
Applicants must demonstrate outstanding qualities in the following areas.
Academic excellence
Candidates should have an excellent academic record and demonstrate strong intellectual ability.
The selection process gives primary consideration to academic achievement.
Applicants should therefore provide accurate academic records and evidence of their qualifications.
Research ability and potential
Applicants must demonstrate the ability or potential to undertake independent doctoral research.
A strong research proposal, previous research experience, academic publications or relevant project work may help demonstrate this potential.
Communication and interpersonal skills
Candidates should be able to communicate their research ideas clearly and work effectively with supervisors, academics and other researchers.
Leadership abilities
The fellowship also considers leadership potential.
Applicants should demonstrate initiative, responsibility and the ability to contribute positively to their academic or professional communities.
Nationality requirements
There is no nationality restriction under the general HKPFS eligibility rules.
Applicants from Zimbabwe, South Africa, Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Uganda, Zambia and other countries can apply if they meet the relevant academic and university admission requirements.
5. Academic qualifications and admission requirements
The RGC does not impose one universal degree classification or academic qualification requirement for all eight universities.
Instead, each participating university establishes the admission requirements for its own PhD programmes.
Applicants should normally have an appropriate academic background, such as:
- A relevant Master’s degree.
- A strong Bachelor’s degree that meets the university’s doctoral admission requirements.
- Equivalent academic qualifications recognised by the selected university.
Some universities may accept applicants with exceptional Bachelor’s qualifications directly into doctoral programmes.
The relevant university determines whether an applicant’s academic background meets the requirements for the proposed PhD.
English-language requirements
Applicants from non-English-speaking universities may be required to provide IELTS or TOEFL results unless they can demonstrate that English was the language of instruction for all courses in their previous studies.
The exact requirements depend on the selected university and PhD programme.
Candidates should check the language requirements before submitting their applications.
Other standardised examinations, such as GRE or GMAT, may be required or recommended by particular universities or departments.
6. Research fields covered by the fellowship
Research Grants Council PhD Fellowships 2027 Offer HK$344,400 Annually and Research Travel Funding
The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme supports doctoral research across a broad range of academic disciplines.
Applications are assessed by two broad selection panels.
Panel 1: Sciences, Medicine, Engineering and Technology
This panel considers applications in areas including:
- Biological sciences.
- Chemistry.
- Physics.
- Mathematics.
- Medicine.
- Public health.
- Engineering.
- Computer science.
- Artificial intelligence.
- Information technology.
- Environmental science.
- Biotechnology.
- Materials science.
- Energy research.
Panel 2: Humanities, Social Sciences and Business Studies
This panel covers disciplines including:
- Economics.
- Business administration.
- Finance.
- Accounting.
- Law.
- Education.
- Sociology.
- Political science.
- International relations.
- Psychology.
- History.
- Languages.
- Philosophy.
- Communication.
- Humanities.
Applicants should select a research programme that closely matches their academic qualifications, research interests and intended career direction.
7. Can Zimbabwean students apply?
Yes. Zimbabwean applicants are eligible to apply because the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme welcomes candidates irrespective of nationality or country of origin.
This provides an opportunity for Zimbabwean graduates with strong academic backgrounds to pursue doctoral research at participating Hong Kong universities.
Potential research areas for Zimbabwean candidates include:
- Agricultural sciences.
- Chemical engineering.
- Renewable energy.
- Environmental science.
- Climate change.
- Public health.
- Biotechnology.
- Economics.
- Business management.
- Education.
- Computer science.
- Artificial intelligence.
- Development studies.
Important considerations for Zimbabwean applicants
Academic qualifications: Check whether your Bachelor’s or Master’s degree meets the doctoral admission requirements of the chosen university.
English-language proficiency: Prepare IELTS or TOEFL results if required by the institution.
Research proposal: Develop a clear research proposal that demonstrates originality, academic relevance and research potential.
University selection: Select programmes that closely match your qualifications and research interests.
Student visa: Successful international applicants must satisfy Hong Kong’s student visa or entry permit requirements.
Research funding: The annual stipend is substantial, but applicants should still research accommodation, food, transportation and other living expenses in Hong Kong.
Zimbabwean applicants should also check whether their intended research programme requires additional examinations, academic references or professional qualifications.
8. Documents required for the application
The exact documentation depends on the university and the chosen PhD programme.
However, applicants should prepare the following documents and information.
1. Academic certificates
Prepare copies of your completed academic qualifications, including:
- Bachelor’s degree certificate.
- Master’s degree certificate, where applicable.
- Other relevant academic qualifications.
If your Master’s degree is still in progress, consult the university about conditional admission and acceptable evidence of expected completion.
2. Academic transcripts
Applicants should provide official transcripts showing their academic performance.
The transcripts should include the courses studied, grades obtained and other relevant academic information.
3. Research proposal
A research proposal is a central part of most PhD applications.
Candidates should prepare a proposal that explains:
- Proposed research title.
- Research background.
- Problem statement.
- Research objectives.
- Research questions.
- Literature review.
- Research methodology.
- Expected contribution.
- Research timeline.
- References.
The research proposal should be tailored to the selected university and department.
4. Curriculum vitae
Research Grants Council PhD Fellowships 2027 Offer HK$344,400 Annually and Research Travel Funding
Prepare an academic CV highlighting:
- Educational qualifications.
- Research experience.
- Academic publications.
- Conference presentations.
- Relevant employment.
- Research projects.
- Awards and achievements.
- Technical and analytical skills.
5. Recommendation letters
Applicants should identify academic referees who can provide informed assessments of their research ability and academic potential.
Universities may require two or more recommendation letters, depending on their application procedures.
6. English-language test results
Submit IELTS or TOEFL results where required by the selected university.
7. Research publications and supporting evidence
Where available, include relevant academic publications, research reports, conference papers or other evidence demonstrating research experience.
8. Personal statement or statement of purpose
Some universities require applicants to explain their academic interests, research goals and reasons for choosing the institution.
Candidates should prepare a clear statement explaining how the proposed PhD fits their academic and professional objectives.
9. How to apply for the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2027/2028
The application involves two separate but connected processes:
- An initial application to the Research Grants Council.
- A full PhD admission application to the selected university or universities.
Submitting only the initial RGC application is not sufficient.
Follow these steps.
Step 1: Identify your research area
Determine the subject you want to pursue at doctoral level.
Review your academic background, previous research experience and long-term research interests.
Step 2: Select participating universities
Review the eight participating universities and identify programmes that match your qualifications.
You may select a maximum of two PhD programmes in one or two participating universities.
Step 3: Identify potential supervisors
Research the academic departments and identify potential supervisors whose research interests align with your proposed project.
Contact them where appropriate to discuss research compatibility and supervision opportunities.
Step 4: Submit the initial RGC application
Visit the official HKPFS Electronic System and complete the initial application.
You will be required to provide personal details and identify your preferred universities and PhD programmes.
After submission, you will receive an HKPFS Reference Number.
Step 5: Apply separately to the selected universities
Submit a full PhD admission application to each selected university.
Include your HKPFS Reference Number in the university application as instructed.
You must satisfy the admission requirements of each institution.
Step 6: Complete the university applications before their deadlines
Each participating university has its own admission application procedures.
Applicants should confirm the deadlines and ensure that all supporting documents are submitted.
Step 7: Prepare for interviews
Universities may conduct interviews as part of their assessment and nomination process.
Shortlisted applications are subsequently considered by the relevant RGC selection panel.
Step 8: Monitor your application
Check your email regularly for application acknowledgements, interview invitations and requests for additional information.
Keep your HKPFS Reference Number and application login details secure.
10. Important application deadlines for 2027/2028
| Application stage | Deadline |
|---|---|
| HKPFS applications open | 1 September 2026 |
| Initial RGC application deadline | 1 December 2026 |
| Initial application closing time | 12:00 noon Hong Kong Time |
| University PhD application deadline | 1 December 2026, 11:59 p.m. Hong Kong Time |
| Expected fellowship results | By May 2027 |
| Expected registration period | July–September 2027 |
| Expected academic commencement | September 2027 |
The eight participating universities list 1 December 2026 as their application deadline for the 2027/2028 HKPFS exercise.
Applicants should verify any additional departmental requirements and submit applications as early as possible.
Deadline for applicants in Zimbabwe
Hong Kong uses Hong Kong Time (UTC+8), while Zimbabwe uses Central Africa Time (UTC+2).
The RGC’s initial application deadline of 12:00 noon on 1 December 2026 in Hong Kong is equivalent to:
6:00 a.m. on 1 December 2026 in Zimbabwe.
The university full-application deadline of 11:59 p.m. Hong Kong Time corresponds to 5:59 p.m. on 1 December 2026 in Zimbabwe.
Do not confuse these two closing times. The initial RGC application closes much earlier.
11. How are fellowship applications assessed?
Research Grants Council PhD Fellowships 2027 Offer HK$344,400 Annually and Research Travel Funding
The RGC uses two selection panels to assess shortlisted applications.
Candidates are evaluated primarily on academic excellence, but the assessment also considers research potential and personal qualities.
The main selection criteria are:
Academic excellence
Applicants should demonstrate outstanding academic performance and a strong educational record.
Research ability and potential
The selection panel considers the applicant’s capacity to undertake high-quality doctoral research.
A well-developed research proposal and relevant research experience can help demonstrate this potential.
Communication and interpersonal skills
Candidates should be able to explain their research ideas and communicate effectively with academic colleagues.
Leadership abilities
The panel also considers leadership qualities and the applicant’s ability to contribute to the wider academic and research community.
University interviews
Individual universities may interview applicants before deciding which candidates to nominate for the fellowship competition.
The RGC selection panels then assess the nominated candidates according to their academic disciplines.
12. What happens if you are not awarded the fellowship?
Not receiving an HKPFS award does not necessarily mean that your PhD admission application will be rejected.
The participating universities may still admit applicants who are not selected for the RGC fellowship and offer them their regular postgraduate studentships, provided they meet the university’s admission and funding requirements.
This means applicants should still consider the normal PhD funding arrangements offered by their chosen universities.
However, regular postgraduate studentships have separate terms and financial arrangements. They should not automatically be assumed to provide the same benefits as the HKPFS.
13. Frequently asked questions
Is the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship fully funded?
The scheme provides a substantial financial package consisting of an annual stipend and a separate research-related travel allowance for up to three years. University-specific support may also be available, but applicants should check tuition and other funding conditions with their chosen institution.
How much does the fellowship pay annually?
The published annual stipend is HK$344,400, equivalent to approximately HK$28,700 per month.
Does the fellowship provide research travel funding?
Yes. Awardees receive an additional HK$14,400 per year for conference and research-related travel.
How many fellowships are available?
The RGC plans to award 400 fellowships for the 2027/2028 academic year.
Can Zimbabwean students apply?
Yes. Applicants from Zimbabwe and other countries are eligible if they meet the academic and admission requirements.
Can applicants apply without a Master’s degree?
Some universities may admit exceptional applicants with a strong Bachelor’s degree directly into PhD programmes. Eligibility depends on the chosen institution and programme.
Can current PhD students apply?
Current PhD students may apply if they seek admission as new full-time PhD students in another programme. However, the selection panel may consider previous doctoral study experience during its assessment.
Can applicants apply to more than one university?
Yes. Applicants may select up to two PhD programmes in one or two participating universities.
Is IELTS compulsory?
Applicants from non-English-speaking universities may need to provide IELTS or TOEFL results unless they can demonstrate that English was the language of instruction for all courses in their previous studies. Individual universities determine their language requirements.
When will the results be announced?
The RGC expects to announce the 2027/2028 fellowship results by May 2027.
What happens if I am not selected for the fellowship?
You may still receive a regular PhD admission offer and potentially a postgraduate studentship from the university, depending on its admission and funding decisions.
Final thoughts
Research Grants Council PhD Fellowships 2027 Offer HK$344,400 Annually and Research Travel Funding
Research Grants Council PhD Fellowships 2027 Offer HK$344,400 Annually and Research Travel Funding. The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2027/2028 provides an opportunity for outstanding international graduates to pursue doctoral studies in Hong Kong with substantial financial support.
With 400 fellowships available, an annual stipend of HK$344,400 and an additional HK$14,400 research and conference travel allowance, the scheme is relevant to prospective doctoral researchers across a wide range of disciplines.
For Zimbabwean and other African graduates, the programme offers an opportunity to develop research expertise, work with experienced academics and build international research networks.
Applicants should begin by identifying suitable PhD programmes, preparing a strong research proposal and contacting potential supervisors.
Most importantly, candidates must complete both the initial RGC application and the full university admission application before the respective deadlines.
Application deadline: 1 December 2026 at 12:00 noon Hong Kong Time.
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