Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2024-2025 For International Students

The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) is a prestigious scholarship program that aims to attract outstanding international students to pursue PhD studies in Hong Kong’s universities. The scheme provides a comprehensive package of financial support and opportunities for academic excellence, enabling exceptional students from around the globe to contribute to the advancement of knowledge and innovation in their respective fields.

Eligibility

To be eligible for the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Nationality: Be a citizen of any country outside of Hong Kong
Academic Record: Possess a strong academic background, typically with a first degree of at least upper second-class (2:1) honours standard, or a lower second-class degree and a relevant postgraduate qualification (usually a Master’s degree).
Field of Study: Alignment with one of the many PhD programs offered by the eight participating universities in Hong Kong:
The University of Hong Kong
Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
The Chinese University of Hong Kong
City University of Hong Kong
Lingnan University
Hong Kong Baptist University
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
The Hang Seng University of Hong Kong
English Language Proficiency: Demonstrate fluency in English, both written and spoken.
Leadership Potential: Exhibit leadership skills, initiative, and a commitment to making a positive impact on their field of study.
Motivation and Contribution: Articulate a clear motivation for pursuing a PhD and demonstrate a willingness to contribute to the advancement of knowledge in their field.

Benefits

The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme provides a comprehensive package of benefits to successful applicants:

Full Tuition Coverage: Full tuition coverage for the duration of the PhD program at the chosen university in Hong Kong.
Generous Stipend: A generous monthly stipend of HK$331,200 (approximately US$42,460) to cover living expenses such as accommodation, meals, and transportation.
Conference and Research Travel Allowance: An annual allowance of HK$13,800 (approximately US$1,760) to support research travel and conference presentations.
Networking Opportunities: Access to a network of fellow scholars, alumni, and industry professionals in Hong Kong and beyond.
Mentorship Programs: Mentoring from experienced faculty members and research supervisors.
Research Support: Opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research and gain valuable experience in world-class research facilities.

Application Process

The application process for the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme is highly competitive and requires the submission of the following documents:

Completed Online Application Form: A complete online application form with all required information.
Academic Transcripts: Official academic transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
First Degree Certificate: A copy of the first degree certificate.
Master’s Degree Certificate (if applicable): A copy of the Master’s degree certificate (if applicable).
Research Proposal: A detailed research proposal outlining the proposed research project, including objectives, methodology, and timeline.
Letter of Motivation: A compelling letter of motivation highlighting academic goals, research aspirations, and contributions to the advancement of knowledge in the chosen field.
Two Letters of Recommendation: Two letters of recommendation from academic supervisors or research supervisors.
Copy of Identity Document or Passport: A copy of a valid identity document or passport.
Resume: A detailed resume highlighting relevant academic achievements, research experience, and publications.

Application Deadline

The application deadline for the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme typically falls between September and December of the year prior to the intended start date of study. For the 2024/2025 academic year, the application deadline is December 1, 2023.

Selection Process

Applications for the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme are reviewed by a selection committee, which considers the following factors:

Academic Record: Strength of academic performance, including GPA, coursework, and research experience.
Research Proposal: Clarity, originality, and feasibility of the proposed research project.
Alignment with Research Priorities: Alignment of the research proposal with the research priorities of the chosen university and Hong Kong’s academic landscape.
Leadership Potential: Evidence of leadership skills, initiative, and a commitment to making a positive impact in the field of study.
Personal Statement: Clarity and persuasiveness of the letter of motivation, highlighting personal goals, research aspirations, and contributions to the advancement of knowledge.
References: Insights and recommendations provided by academic supervisors or research supervisors.
Overall Fit: The applicant’s alignment with the scholarship’s objectives and their potential to contribute to Hong Kong’s academic excellence through their research.

Start of Program

The successful applicants of the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme will commence their studies at their chosen university in