Hong Kong's universities offer English-taught PhDs and the generous Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme.
PhD opportunities in Hong Kong
Why do a PhD in Hong Kong?
- HKPFS stipend of HK$344,400 a year
- English-taught research
- Gateway to research in China
Universities in Hong Kong
Well-known research universities and institutes for PhD study in Hong Kong include:
- University of Hong Kong
- Chinese University of Hong Kong
- HKUST
- Hong Kong Polytechnic University
- City University of Hong Kong
Choose a university by your supervisor and research group, not the overall ranking — fit with the group decides most PhD outcomes.
PhD structure
Programmes include coursework, a qualifying exam and thesis defence.
Fees and funding
Fees: Studentships usually include a tuition waiver.
Main funded routes: Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme and university PhD fellowships.
Official starting points: HKPFS
See PhD funding by country to compare routes across 46 countries, or estimate your budget with the study cost calculator.
Applying for a PhD in Hong Kong
Apply by 1 December for HKPFS (RGC portal plus university application); studentships have later deadlines.
Language: IELTS/TOEFL required for most applicants.
Your application checklist
- CV with research experience and any publications
- Research proposal or statement written for the project or supervisor — see our research proposal guide
- Master's (and undergraduate) transcripts and degree certificates; for Pakistanis, HEC-attested copies
- Two or three academic references — see our recommendation letter guide
- English test score or proof of English-medium study, if required
- Interview preparation — see our interview guide
Student visas and work
Visa: Students need an entry permit sponsored by the university.
Working during your PhD: Restricted part-time work.
After your PhD
IANG allows graduates to stay and work.
Open PhD opportunities in Hong Kong
HKU Presidential PhD Scholarship (HKU-PS) 2027/28 — University of Hong Kong
The University of Hong Kong — Graduate School
Hong Kong
- Fully funded, Stipend, Tuition waiver
- Open to all nationalities
- Study level: PhD
Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) 2027/28
Research Grants Council (RGC), Hong Kong
Hong Kong
- Fully funded, Stipend
- Open to all nationalities
- Study level: PhD
- 3 years
This guide gives an overview for international applicants. Rules on fees, funding and visas change — always confirm the details on the university, funder and embassy websites before you apply.
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