The University of Hong Kong Postgraduate Scholarships: Eligibility, Deadline & How to Apply

The University of Hong Kong (HKU) Graduate School offers a range of prestigious postgraduate scholarships designed to attract and reward outstanding academic achievers from around the world. These scholarships enable talented students to pursue a fully-funded research postgraduate (RPg) or taught postgraduate (TPg) degree at one of Asia's leading global universities. If you have a strong academic record and the potential to contribute to your field, these scholarships provide a golden opportunity to develop your research and professional skills within a vibrant, international academic community.

For the 2025–2026 academic year, the main application period for research programmes typically runs from early September to early December 2024, while taught programme deadlines vary by faculty until as late as April/May 2025. This guide will walk prospective students through every step of the process, including eligibility, how to apply, funding details, and key deadlines. You can be fully prepared to seize this opportunity to study and live in the dynamic city of Hong Kong while advancing your academic and career ambitions.

The University of Hong Kong postgraduate scholarships are primarily applicable to full-time research (MPhil/PhD) and some taught postgraduate (TPg) programmes. The scholarships are tenable at HKU itself, allowing you to choose from a wide array of disciplines across its world-class faculties.

HKU Postgraduate Scholarships Awards

The HKU Graduate School scholarships are highly competitive, fully-funded awards for exceptional students to pursue postgraduate studies at the University of Hong Kong. They provide comprehensive financial support, allowing scholars to focus entirely on their academic and research pursuits without financial burden.

The HKU Postgraduate Scholarship (HKUPS) for research students covers a wide range of expenses. The support includes:

• Full tuition fee waiver for the entire normative study period.
• A generous monthly stipend to cover accommodation and living expenses in Hong Kong (approximately HK$27,600 or ~INR 2.95 Lakhs per month for 2024-25, subject to annual review).
• Conference and research-related travel support to present papers at international conferences.
• Comprehensive medical insurance coverage.

HKU Postgraduate Scholarships Amount

The financial support for the top-tier HKU postgraduate scholarships is substantial and comprehensive, designed to cover your entire study period in Hong Kong.

HKU Postgraduate Scholarships Benefits

Beyond the comprehensive financial coverage, receiving an HKU scholarship offers unparalleled academic and professional advantages. You become part of an elite community of scholars and gain access to a global network.

To be eligible for the most prestigious HKU postgraduate scholarships, you must demonstrate outstanding academic merit. The criteria are highly competitive and must be met fully.

Countries Eligible Under HKU Postgraduate Scholarships

The University of Hong Kong postgraduate scholarships are open to talented students from all over the world. The programme aims to build a diverse and international cohort of postgraduate scholars.

The application process is completed online through the HKU Graduate School application portal. It is highly competitive and involves a holistic review of your academic profile.

1. Check Deadlines & Requirements: Review the specific deadlines for your chosen programme and faculty on the official HKU website.
2. Prepare Documents: Gather all required documents, including transcripts, CV, and research proposal.
3. Online Application: Complete the online application form for your chosen MPhil/PhD or Taught Postgraduate programme.
4. Indicate Scholarship Interest: Within the application form, indicate your interest in being considered for HKU Postgraduate Scholarships.
5. Submit References: Ensure your referees submit their letters before the deadline.
6. Application Review: The respective Faculty/School will review applications and nominate the top candidates for scholarships.

Application Timeline for HKU Postgraduate Scholarship

The entire process from application to starting your studies takes nearly a year. Adhering to the timeline is critical for success. Mark these estimated dates for the 2025 intake.

HKU Postgraduate Scholarships Interview

If you are shortlisted, you may be called for an interview. This is typically conducted online via video conference by the respective academic department or faculty at HKU. It is a key part of the selection process to assess your research aptitude and fit for the programme.

• The interview invitation will be sent via email. You will be provided with details to schedule or join the video call.

• You must be prepared to discuss your research proposal, academic background, and motivations for choosing HKU in depth. The interview panel will assess your subject knowledge, critical thinking, and communication skills.

Full-time PhD and MPhil students who hold a first degree at second class honours upper division (or equivalent) or above are normally considered eligible for receiving Postgraduate Scholarships (PGS) during the normative study period, subject to availability of funding. 

You need to prepare several documents for your application to both the programme and the scholarship. These are crucial for the assessment.

1. Academic Transcripts and Certificates (from your undergraduate and, if applicable, postgraduate studies).
2. Research Proposal (for MPhil/PhD applicants).
3. Curriculum Vitae (CV) / Resume.
4. Two (or more) Academic Reference Letters.
5. Proof of English Language Proficiency (e.g., IELTS/TOEFL scores).
6. A Valid Passport or national ID document.

FAQs about HKU Graduate School Postgraduate Scholarships

Who is eligible for the HKU Postgraduate Scholarship?

You must have an outstanding academic record, have applied for a full-time research or eligible taught postgraduate programme at HKU, and meet all the university's admission requirements, including English language proficiency.

What does the HKU Postgraduate Scholarship cover?

It is a fully-funded scholarship that covers full tuition fees and provides a substantial monthly stipend for living expenses (approx. HK$27,600 for RPg students). It also includes conference travel grants and medical insurance.

Do I need to apply separately for the HKU Postgraduate Scholarship?

No, for most major scholarships like the HKUPS, you are automatically considered when you apply for a full-time research postgraduate programme. You must indicate your interest in the application form.

Is work experience required for the HKU scholarship?

For research programmes, research experience and a strong academic profile are more critical than general work experience. For some taught programmes, relevant work experience can strengthen your application.