As Hong Kong continues to position itself as a global hub for innovation, research, and next-generation technology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) has announced one of its most competitive funding opportunities for the coming year—the Innovation and Technology Scholarship (IT Scholarship) 2026.
Managed by CUHK’s Office of Admissions and Financial Aid (OAFA), this scholarship award offers high-achieving undergraduates the chance to expand their horizons through international exposure, cutting-edge training, and direct engagement with industry leaders. For driven students who dream of building a future in technology, engineering, AI, or sustainability, this scholarship offers a life-changing platform.
A Scholarship Designed for Tomorrow’s Innovators
The Innovation and Technology Scholarship serves a dual purpose: to reward outstanding CUHK undergraduates and to nurture Hong Kong’s future innovators. Each year, a selective group of students is chosen and provided with funding to participate in global learning programs that strengthen their academic and career potential. The 2026 round continues this mission with a strong emphasis on international opportunities, industry internships, research engagement, and exposure to the growing technological ecosystems of Mainland China and abroad.
For the 2026–2027 cycle, only 25 awardees will be selected across Hong Kong universities—making this competition truly elite and highly respected in academic circles.
Scholarship Value – Up to HK$150,000 for Global Learning and Industry Pathways
Successful candidates will be awarded up to HK$150,000, enabling them to undertake a portfolio of transformative learning activities between 1 June 2026 and 31 July 2027. These activities may include overseas research placements, cross-border training in Mainland China, technology immersion camps, professional mentorship programs, and industry internships.
The funding structure is designed to support a scholar’s full development: academic excellence, technological creativity, and hands-on experience in real-world innovation settings.
Eligibility Criteria – Who Can Apply?
Applicants must satisfy all CUHK and IT Scholarship requirements. Candidates must:
- Be Hong Kong Permanent Residents with right of abode.
- Be full-time, non-final-year undergraduates enrolled in any CUHK degree program.
- Meet the English language requirements listed on the IT Scholarship portal.
- Preferably hold a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 or equivalent (Year 1 students without GPA are still eligible).
- Demonstrate passion for innovation and a strong intention to pursue careers in technology-driven fields.
- Present innovative ideas aligned with one or more of the approved InnoTech Areas:
- Advanced Manufacturing and Advanced Engineering
- Artificial Intelligence and Robotics
- Business and Financial Technology
- Life and Health Technology
- Sustainability and Green Technology
- Multi-disciplinary Technology and allied fields.
The program is open to students across academic disciplines, making it a unique opportunity for both STEM and non-STEM students with strong innovation potential.
Application Process – What Students Must Submit
All interested candidates must complete the application process on or before 29 December 2025. Late or incomplete applications will be rejected without review.
Applicants must prepare:
- Online application form submitted through the IT Scholarship website after thoroughly reviewing the “About the Scholarship” section.
- Video clip and an updated CV, submitted separately to OAFA via the designated online form. Instructions and formats are available on the CUHK OAFA portal under Scholarships for Overseas Studies.
- All applicants must follow the “Supplementary Notes to Applicants” strictly to ensure compliance with the required video and CV specifications.
Shortlisted students will undergo two rounds of interviews:
- CUHK interview: late January or early February 2026.
- Awardee Selection Committee interview: March or April 2026 in Hong Kong.
Decisions made by CUHK and the Selection Committee are final and not open to appeal.
Why Students Should Apply?
With generous financial support, cross-border exposure, and access to top-tier innovation ecosystems, the IT Scholarship 2026 stands out as one of Hong Kong’s most valuable undergraduate development programs. Scholars gain international visibility, strengthen their professional networks, and position themselves competitively for future careers or postgraduate pathways in technology.
For any CUHK undergraduate dreaming of shaping the world through innovation, this is a golden door of opportunity.