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🇭🇰 Hong Kong — Various Hong Kong universities

Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme

IELTS Requirement & Application Guide

Overall

6.5

Components

L 5.5 / R 5.5 / W 5.5 / S 5.5

Level

PhD

Deadline

September–December

Country

🇭🇰 Hong Kong

Coverage

Annual stipend of HKD 331,200 (approximately USD 42,100), Conference and research-related travel allowance of HKD 13,800 per year +1 more

About Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme

The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) is a prestigious award established by the Hong Kong Research Grants Council. It provides approximately 300 fellowships annually across all eight UGC-funded universities in Hong Kong. Fellows receive a generous annual stipend of HKD 331,200, a conference travel allowance, and a full tuition fee waiver.

Official Website

IELTS Required

OverallLRWS
6.55.55.55.55.5

Accepts: Academic / General

Also accepted: TOEFL iBT 80

Coverage

  • Annual stipend of HKD 331,200 (approximately USD 42,100)
  • Conference and research-related travel allowance of HKD 13,800 per year
  • Full tuition fee waiver

Tips for Meeting the Requirement

  1. 1.HKPFS requires IELTS 6.5 overall with 5.5 in each component. Given the fellowship's prestige and competitiveness (acceptance rate under 10%), aim for 7.0+ to strengthen your application.
  2. 2.Apply between September and December. The two-stage selection process involves initial screening by the university and final selection by the RGC, so submit your IELTS scores well before the deadline.
  3. 3.Focus on IELTS Writing and Speaking, as the HKPFS application includes a research proposal and potential interview. Strong communication skills in these areas directly support your candidacy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What IELTS score do I need for the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship?
The HKPFS requires IELTS Academic 6.5 overall with a minimum of 5.5 in each component. Individual universities may set higher requirements. TOEFL iBT 80 is accepted as an alternative.
Does the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship accept TOEFL?
Yes, TOEFL iBT with a minimum score of 80 is accepted. Each participating university may have its own additional requirements, so verify with your target institution.
Can I apply for the HKPFS without IELTS?
IELTS or TOEFL is generally required. Applicants who completed their undergraduate or master's degree in English at a recognised institution may be exempt, depending on the specific university's policy.

आपको विश्वविद्यालय IELTS आवश्यकता पूरा गर्नुहोस्

भर्नाको लागि Band 6.5, 7.0, वा 7.5 मा पुग्न निःशुल्क साप्ताहिक रणनीतिहरू।