We haven't confirmed this year's application window, and these dates move every cycle — so we won't print one. The official page is the only reliable source. Ask us and we'll track it for you and tell you when it opens.
Eligibility
For applicants seeking admission as new full-time PhD students at the eight UGC-funded universities, and the scheme states it is open irrespective of country of origin, prior work experience and ethnic background — so an Indian applicant competes on the same footing as anyone else. What is assessed is outstanding academic performance, exceptional research ability or potential, communication and interpersonal skills, and leadership. Four hundred fellowships are awarded for 2027/28, which makes this one of the larger fully funded doctoral schemes anywhere.
Two steps, and skipping the first is fatal. You make an initial application to the Research Grants Council through its online system to obtain an HKPFS Reference Number, and only then submit full applications to your chosen universities quoting that number. The 2027/28 round runs from 1 September to 1 December 2026, closing at 12:00 noon Hong Kong time — so the RGC step has to be done well inside that window, not at the end of it.
HK$344,400 a year (about US$44,150) plus a HK$14,400 conference and research travel allowance each year, for up to three years. Confirm the current value on the official page before you apply.
For applicants seeking admission as new full-time PhD students at the eight UGC-funded universities, and the scheme states it is open irrespective of country of origin, prior work experience and ethnic background — so an Indian applicant competes on the same footing as anyone else. What is assessed is outstanding academic performance, exceptional research ability or potential, communication and interpersonal skills, and leadership. Four hundred fellowships are awarded for 2027/28, which makes this one of the larger fully funded doctoral schemes anywhere.
Two steps, and skipping the first is fatal. You make an initial application to the Research Grants Council through its online system to obtain an HKPFS Reference Number, and only then submit full applications to your chosen universities quoting that number. The 2027/28 round runs from 1 September to 1 December 2026, closing at 12:00 noon Hong Kong time — so the RGC step has to be done well inside that window, not at the end of it.
It funds PhD study. We have not confirmed which destinations it covers — the official page below is the reliable source.
Yes — it recurs, so if you miss this cycle you can plan for the next one. We track the dates for you.
Yes — we check which scholarships you actually qualify for, help with the documents and the application, and it's free.
Want help winning Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS)? Free
A counsellor calls you back during office hours — 9am to 8pm IST, Mon to Sat. We are open now.
A senior Vibedu counsellor
Study-abroad expert
Optional — so a counsellor can send your shortlist and documents in writing.
