The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) is an elite initiative aimed at attracting outstanding international students to pursue their doctoral studies in Hong Kong. Established by the Research Grants Council (RGC), this program seeks to draw exceptional talent from around the globe, providing them with an excellent opportunity to engage in pioneering research at prestigious universities.

One of the key advantages of the HKPFS is its substantial financial assistance, which covers living expenses and tuition fees, enabling students to focus entirely on their academic and research pursuits. The scheme invites candidates from a wide range of disciplines, promoting a variety of fields to enhance Hong Kong’s reputation as a leading global research hub. The HKPFS has transformed into a highly desirable platform for scholars aiming to boost their career internationally, creating an ecosystem that embraces cutting-edge research and promotes high-quality work.

The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme in a Nutshell

Initiated in 2009 by the Research Grants Council (RGC), Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) aims to attract talented international students pursuing their PhD studies in Hong Kong. Providing a full financial support offering, making it easier for students worldwide to succeed in one of Asia’s leading research hubs.

Basically a mega fellowship that invites the brightest minds to research together, covering a wide variety of disciplines, HKPFS gives students freedom on which form their passion for research takes at one of the eight partnering universities in Hong Kong.

Who Can Apply?

This scholarship is targeted towards international students from all around the world who are planning to do their PhD in Hong Kong under the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme. If you are an undergraduate student or a soon to be graduate with good grades and research skills, this is for you!

Eligibility Criteria

Eligibility For Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2024Applicants must meet the following criteria to be considered eligible.

Exceptional Scholastics: Candidates are to be shown academic prowess, sometimes measured with honors or GPA.

Research Potential: The candidates should have a specific research area of interest and strong evidence in the form of publications, projects or job experience for their competence ability.

English language skills: International students have to meet the university requirements regarding English proficiency which are usually taken as standardized tests like IELTS or TOEFL.

Admission Offer: Full-time PhD program offer from one of the Hong Kong participating universities

The University of Hong Kong (HKU)

The Chinese University of Hong Kong

The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST)

City University of Hong Kong (CityU)

Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU) —HKSAR

Lingnan University (LU)

教育大學 (The Education University of Hong Kong, EdUHK)

Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU)

How to Apply

Apply for Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme through these procedures

Select Your University and Program: Look through the PhD programs from participating universities and select one that aligns with your research interests
Submit Initial Application via HKPFS Portal: To get a reference number, submit an initial application using the HKPFS web portal.
Submit Applications to Universities: Use the reference number to submit full applications to your chosen universities’ PhD programs.
Prepare Required Documents:
– Academic transcripts and certificates
– Research proposal outlining your intended study
– Recommendation letters
– Personal statement detailing your academic and career goals
– Proof of English language proficiency (if applicable)

Check Deadlines: Dec 1 2024

What Does It Cover?

International students can receive significant financial assistance through the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme, which covers:

Annual Stipend: HKD 331,200 for a maximum of three years (around USD 42,460).
Research and Conference Allowance: Each year, HKD 13,900 (about USD 1,780) is allocated to cover conference travel and research-related costs.
Extended Support: For PHD candidates entering their fourth year, some universities might have some form of extended support.

Why Study in Hong Kong?

Hong Kong is home to two of the most important financial centers in the world, New York and Shanghai. Its institutions have distinguished staff, good students and fine facilities for doing research. Thanks to its status as a global metropolis for finance and culture, Hong Kong offers a wide range of job options. This is appealing for students eager to expand their horizons beyond the classroom.

TIPS FOR A STRONG APPLICATION

Focus on Research: If you have research experience from before, published articles in recognized forums, or other related projects that would reflect favorably on those qualifications and abilities of yours then mention them.

Please write a Research Proposal : Your research proposal should be succinct. The difficulty in polishing it may vary according to how closely it matches any areas of interest at your chosen university, but this is likely one area where you really don’t want to take risks if everything else is going so well.

Get Strong References: Secure strong references that can attest to your research ability from professors or professionals.

Be Thorough and Early: Finish and return all required paperwork well in advance of the deadline.

Important Deadlines

Initial Application Deadline: Usually in December of the following year.

University-Specific Deadlines: Check with your chosen university for its timing as rules in each school may vary somewhat.

Final Thoughts

The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2024 is an exceptional opportunity for international students to pursue world-class doctoral studies in one of Asia’s most dynamic cities. The fellowship gives academics access to state-of-the-art research facilities and extensive financial assistance, allowing them to make important contributions to their areas. For additional information, visit the official Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme website and start preparing your application right now.

For More Information

Visit the official website

RELATED