The world-class Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) 2026 has officially opened its call for international applicants, inviting brilliant minds from across the globe to pursue doctoral studies at Lingnan University, one of Hong Kong’s most research-driven liberal arts universities. Established by the Research Grants Council (RGC) of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government in 2009, the HKPFS continues its mission to attract exceptional students to Hong Kong’s leading institutions.
Scholarship Introduction
The HKPFS at Lingnan University offers outstanding candidates a fully funded opportunity to undertake innovative PhD research in a globally connected academic environment. The Fellowship is open to students from all nationalities and disciplines, emphasizing academic excellence, leadership potential, and research vision.
Fellowship Award Package
For the 2025–2026 intake, each HKPFS awardee will receive:
- A monthly stipend of HK$28,400 (approximately US$3,640, subject to annual review)
- A conference and research-related travel allowance of up to HK$14,200 per year
- Funding for a maximum period of three years, with Lingnan University extending the same level of support for a fourth year of study for programs with a longer normative duration.
This package ensures that selected candidates can focus entirely on academic research and global collaboration, with ample support for conferences, workshops, and research dissemination.
Eligibility Criteria
The HKPFS welcomes applications from candidates who:
- Demonstrate outstanding academic performance and a strong research background
- Show potential for leadership and global impact
- Meet Lingnan University’s PhD admission requirements
- Hold an excellent command of English (proof through TOEFL/IELTS may be required)
No restrictions are placed on nationality—students from all regions and disciplines are encouraged to apply.
Application Process and Deadlines
Apply: https://www.ln.edu.hk/rpg/hong-kong-phd-fellowship-scheme-hkpfs.
After applications close, Lingnan University will evaluate candidates and nominate top applicants for the prestigious HKPFS award. The RGC will then make the final selection through expert panels. Applicants who are not selected for the Fellowship will still be considered for PhD admission under Lingnan’s Postgraduate Studentship scheme, ensuring high-caliber students are not left behind.
Key Dates to Remember
The application period for the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship 2026 at Lingnan University opens on September 1, 2025. All applicants must first complete their registration with the Research Grants Council (RGC) and obtain a reference number before the RGC deadline of December 1, 2025 (HKT 12:00).
Afterward, candidates must submit their full applications directly through Lingnan University’s online admission system by December 1, 2025 (HKT 23:59).
Final Word for Global Students: The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship at Lingnan University isn’t just another scholarship—it’s an international gateway to academic excellence, research innovation, and leadership in Asia’s world city. With its generous financial support and research exposure, this Fellowship promises to transform your PhD journey into a globally recognized academic career.
Apply now and take your place among the brightest research scholars in the world!