The University of Hong Kong (HKU) is inviting outstanding researchers from around the world to pursue full-time doctoral studies through the HKU Presidential PhD Scholar Programme (HKU-PS Programme) for the 2027/28 academic year. Recognised as one of HKU’s most prestigious scholarship opportunities, the programme is designed to attract exceptionally talented PhD candidates with strong academic records, research potential and a passion for advancing knowledge. Selected HKU Presidential PhD Scholars will receive a comprehensive financial package covering tuition fees, a substantial monthly postgraduate scholarship, research and conference travel support, living and research expenses, and other academic benefits during the normative period of their PhD studies. What Is the HKU Presidential PhD Scholar Programme? The HKU Presidential PhD Scholar Programme was established to attract the brightest candidates from around the world to undertake full-time PhD research at the University of Hong Kong. Beyond financial support, the programme provides scholars with opportunities to benefit from HKU’s academic and professional development environment. Scholars receive individualised advisory support, opportunities for teaching training and interaction with leading academics. A distinguished group of Faculty members will also provide additional mentorship and training opportunities while helping scholars develop their academic and research careers. This makes the programme particularly attractive to ambitious researchers seeking not only financial assistance but also high-level academic mentorship and career development. HKU Presidential PhD Scholarship Benefits 2027/28 For students admitted under the 2027/28 intake, the HKU Presidential PhD Scholarship provides a package worth up to approximately HK$445,800 (US$57,150) in the first year. In subsequent years during the normative study period, scholars can receive a package worth up to approximately HK$428,300 (US$54,920) per year. The scholarship package includes several important benefits: HK$28,700 Monthly Postgraduate Scholarship Presidential PhD Scholars will receive a postgraduate scholarship of HK$28,700 per month, providing substantial financial support throughout their doctoral studies. Tuition Fee Waiver The programme provides a waiver of composition fees for the entire normative study period. The composition fee is currently listed at HK$49,500 per year. This means successful scholars can pursue their PhD without having to cover the standard annual composition fees themselves. Research and Living Expense Support Scholars receive a cash award to help support research and living expenses. The award is HK$40,000 in the first year and HK$20,000 per year during the remaining normative study period. Conference and Research Travel Allowance The scholarship also provides HK$14,400 per year to support conference participation and research-related travel. This benefit can help scholars present their research internationally, attend academic conferences and build valuable professional networks. Guaranteed Hall Accommodation in Year One Successful scholars are guaranteed a hall place during their first year, with the possibility of renewal in subsequent years. In addition, selected outstanding students may receive financial support for an additional year of study beyond the normative study period, as a reward for exceptional research output and progress. Who Can Apply? The HKU Presidential PhD Scholar Programme is aimed at the brightest candidates who are passionate about research and applying for full-time PhD study at HKU. Importantly, applicants do not need to submit a separate application specifically for the Presidential PhD Programme. All applicants applying for full-time PhD programmes at HKU will be considered for the HKU-PS Programme. Because competition is expected to be intense, HKU strongly encourages applicants applying during the Main Round to also apply for the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme. Shortlisted candidates may be invited to participate in an interview as part of the selection process. When Is the Application Period? For the 2027/28 admission cycle, the Main Round runs from 1 September to 1 December. Prospective applicants should therefore begin preparing their applications well in advance. A strong doctoral application should demonstrate academic excellence, clear research interests, relevant experience and the potential to make a meaningful contribution to the chosen field. Applicants should also carefully review the admission requirements and identify an appropriate PhD programme and research area before submitting their application. Why Consider Studying for a PhD at HKU? The University of Hong Kong provides an international research environment where doctoral students can work alongside leading academics and researchers. For ambitious researchers from Asia, Africa, Latin America and other regions, the HKU Presidential PhD Scholarship offers an opportunity to gain an internationally recognised doctoral education while receiving significant financial support. The combination of a HK$28,700 monthly stipend, tuition fee waiver, research travel funding, living support and accommodation assistance makes this one of the major fully funded PhD opportunities available for international researchers seeking doctoral study in Hong Kong. How to Apply for the HKU Presidential PhD Scholarship Interested candidates should apply for a full-time PhD programme at The University of Hong Kong through the university’s official application system. Applicants should ensure that their academic documents, research proposal where required, references and other supporting materials are prepared before the relevant deadline. All full-time PhD applicants will automatically be considered for the HKU Presidential PhD Scholar Programme. Due to the competitive nature of the award, candidates should aim to submit a strong and well-prepared application during the Main Round. Application period: 1 September – 1 December for the Main Round Study level: PhD Study mode: Full-time Location: Hong Kong Scholarship: Fully funded/major financial support package Monthly stipend: HK$28,700 First-year package: Up to approximately HK$445,800 (US$57,150) Subsequent-year package: Up to approximately HK$428,300 (US$54,920) The HKU Presidential PhD Scholar Programme 2027/28 represents a major opportunity for high-achieving researchers seeking fully supported doctoral study in an internationally recognised academic environment. Prospective applicants are encouraged to review their preferred PhD programme and submit their applications before the applicable deadline. VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE HERE For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn and WPChannel Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization offering this opportunity. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. 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