Are you an international PhD applicant willing to pursue a PhD at a world-class institution with full financial support? The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) at the Education University of Hong Kong (EdUHK) offers a world-class opportunity for passionate students to advance their academic and research pursuits.

The EdUHK attracts top doctoral talent worldwide through the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) established by the Hong Kong Research Grants Council (RGC) in 2009. Each academic year, the RGC awards about 300 fellowships for international applicants.

This prestigious program provides financial and academic support to PhD candidates while ensuring access to high-quality resources. The HKPFS at EdUHK combines financial benefits and a vibrant research community, making it a unique platform for students aspiring to achieve global academic distinction.

Key Details and Dates

• Application Deadlines:
  • RGC Application: December 1, 2025, 12:00 noon (Hong Kong Time)
  • EdUHK Application: December 1, 2025, 11:59 pm (Hong Kong Time)
• Result Announcement Dates: April/May 2026
• Funding Type: Fully funded
• Host Institution: Education University of Hong Kong (EdUHK)
• Eligible Countries: All
• Eligible Gender: Male/Female
• Target Group: Prospective PhD students
• Study Level: Doctoral (PhD)
• Duration: 4 years
• Program Language: English
• Host Country: Hong Kong
• Fields:
  • Artificial Intelligence and Educational Technology
  • Curriculum, Teaching, and Assessment
  • Chinese Language Studies
  • Cultural and Creative Arts
  • Early Childhood Education
  • Education Policy and Leadership
  • English Language Education
  • Health and Physical Education
  • Global and Regional Studies
  • International Education
  • Linguistics and Literature
  • Mathematics Education
  • Psychology
  • Science and Environmental Studies
  • Social Sciences and Policy Studies
  • Special Education and Counselling
  • Sports Science and Coaching

Benefits and Financial Aids

The selected candidates will benefit from the HKPFS as follows:

• Monthly Stipend: HK$28,400 (approximately US$3,640)
• Annual Conference and Research-related Travel Allowance: HK$14,200 (approximately US$1,820)
• Additional Financial Support: Monthly stipends for the normative study period (four years)
• University Accommodation: Guaranteed on-campus housing for the normative study period (subject to availability)
• Tuition Fee Waiver: One-year tuition waiver for the 4th year of study (for 4-Year PhD awardees)

Eligibility Criteria

Applications are open to candidates who meet the following requirements:

PhD:

• Master’s Degree: From a recognized university, or
• Bachelor’s Degree: With first-class honors (or equivalent) from a recognized university.

MPhil:

• Bachelor’s Degree: From a recognized university (or equivalent).

English Language Requirements:

Applicants whose previous degrees were not taught and assessed in English must meet one of the following minimum requirements:

• IELTS: 6.5 (academic module) with no subtest lower than 6.0.
• TOEFL: 80 (internet-based test).
• Equivalent Qualifications: Other equivalent tests may be considered (CET not accepted).

Note: Test results must be valid (within two years). Some programs, like those in English language studies, may require higher scores.

Non-local Applicants:

• As per HKSAR government policy, non-local applicants require a student visa/entry permit to study in Hong Kong.
• Early applications are advised, as visa processing by the Hong Kong Immigration Department may take time.
• Applicants with degrees from Mainland China must provide:
  • Degree Verification Report
  • Graduation Verification Report from CHSI

Research Areas EdUHK

The featured research areas at The Education University of Hong Kong (EdUHK) include:

• Artificial Intelligence and Educational Technology
• Curriculum, Teaching, and Assessment
• Chinese Language Studies
• Cultural and Creative Arts
• Early Childhood Education
• Education Policy and Leadership
• English Language Education
• Health and Physical Education
• Heritage Education
• Global and Regional Studies
• International Education
• Linguistics and Literature
• Mathematics Education
• Psychology
• Science and Environmental Studies
• Social Sciences and Policy Studies
• Special Education and Counselling
• Sports Science and Coaching

How to Apply?

Step 1: Submit an initial application via the RGC HKPFS Electronic System and obtain an HKPFS reference number by December 1, 2025, 12:00 noon (Hong Kong Time)

Step 2: Submit a full application to the EdUHK Admission System, providing the HKPFS reference number by December 1, 2025, 11:59 pm (Hong Kong Time)

Apply Now for RGC

Apply to EdHKU

For more details, visit the EdUHK HKPFS page. Contact: rpg@eduhk.h

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