The HKU Presidential PhD Scholar Programme (HKU-PS Programme) represents the most prestigious, top-tier doctoral fellowship awarded by The University of Hong Kong (HKU). Designed to attract high-caliber global researchers for full-time PhD studies, the scholarship offers an exceptional financial package valued up to HK$445,800 (~US$57,150) in Year 1 and up to HK$428,300 (~US$54,920) annually for subsequent normative study years.
Selected scholars gain access to individualized academic mentorship, professional development, individualized advisory services, and direct networking opportunities with world-renowned researchers.
Scholarship Package & Financial Benefits
Awardees of the HKU Presidential PhD Scholar Programme receive a multi-part financial allowance structure throughout their normative study period:
| Funding Component | Year 1 Value | Subsequent Years (Annual) |
| Monthly Postgraduate Stipend | HK$28,700/month (~HK$344,400/year) | HK$28,700/month (~HK$344,400/year) |
| Cash Award | HK$40,000 | HK$20,000 per year |
| Composition Fee Waiver | HK$49,500 (Full Tuition Waiver) | HK$49,500 (Full Tuition Waiver) |
| Research & Conference Travel Allowance | HK$14,400 per year | HK$14,400 per year |
| Total Estimated Value | Up to ~HK$445,800 (US$57,150) | Up to ~HK$428,300 (US$54,920) |
Additional Benefits & Support
Guaranteed Hall Accommodation: First-year accommodation in a university residence hall is guaranteed, with possibilities of renewal for subsequent years.
Extended Study Funding: Outstanding scholars demonstrating high research output may receive an additional year of financial support beyond their normative study period.
Mentorship & Career Coaching: Dedicated faculty advisors and senior researchers provide career planning and guidance.
Also Check: NCTU International Student Scholarship in Taiwan 2027 (Fully Funded)
Eligibility Criteria
- Target Audience: Open to foreign and local candidates possessing exceptional academic achievements and research potential.
- Degree Level: First-class honours bachelor’s degree or a recognized master’s degree in a relevant field.
- Mode of Study: Applies strictly to full-time PhD applicants at HKU.
- Language Requirement: Proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS minimum overall 6.5 with subscores above 6.0, or TOEFL equivalent) if previous degrees were from non-English medium institutions.
Application Timeline & Admission Rounds
All applicants applying for full-time PhD admission at HKU are automatically considered for the HKU-PS Programme without submitting a separate scholarship application.
| Application Round | Window Period | Strategic Priority |
| Main Round | 1 September 2026 – 1 December 2026 | Highest Priority (Primary quota allocation) |
| 1st Clearing Round | 2 December 2026 – 30 April 2027 | Subject to remaining vacancies |
| 2nd Clearing Round | 1 May 2027 – 31 August 2027 | Subject to remaining vacancies |
Pro Tip: Due to extreme competition, candidates applying during the Main Round (closing December 1, 2026) are strongly advised to apply simultaneously for the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) via the Research Grants Council (RGC) system.
Also Check: Switzerland Government Excellence Scholarships 2027–28 (Fully Funded)
Step-by-Step Application Process
Identify a Research Supervisor: Browse HKU faculty directories and research centers to identify potential supervisors whose research aligns with your proposal.
Prepare Documentation: Gather academic transcripts, degree certificates, CV, research proposal, statement of purpose, proof of English proficiency, and contact details for two academic referees.
Submit Main University Application: Submit the online PhD admission application through the HKU Graduate School Online Application System.
Cross-Apply to HKPFS (Recommended): Submit an initial application via the HKPFS Electronic System before 1 December 2026 to receive an HKPFS reference number, and append it to your HKU application portal.
Interview Stage: Shortlisted applicants will be invited for online or in-person panel interviews by individual faculties.
Please Subscribe to Our Telegram Channel And WhatsApp Channel To Get The Latest Scholarship Updates.
Please Check Out Our LinkedIn Company Page And LinkedIn Group And Get All the Latest Scholarships Updates.
Also Check: Boston University Scholarships In USA 2027 (Funded)
Leave a Reply