Scholarships in Hong Kong
Hong Kong universities give scholarships to non-local students (students who are not from Hong Kong), some covering full tuition and more. PhD students can apply for the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS). Amounts are in Hong Kong dollars (HKD).
Hong Kong SAR Scholarship Overview
Awards for strong marks and other achievements, from universities and the Hong Kong government.
How Scholarships Work in Hong Kong
Scholarships come from the Hong Kong government, from universities and from other groups. Some are only for students who are not from Hong Kong. Others are open to all students.
The international office or student affairs office at your university can tell you about its own awards and how to apply.
Important to Know
Why Apply for Scholarships?
- Cover part or all of your tuition.
- Some also pay for housing and give money for living costs.
- At the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), a scholarship can lower the money you must show for your visa.
Types of Scholarships
The main sources of funding for students who are not from Hong Kong.
Government scholarships
Run by the Hong Kong government for strong students, from Hong Kong and from outside it.
- Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS)
- Hong Kong Government Scholarship Fund
- Belt and Road Scholarship
University scholarships
Given by each university, often with your offer.
- HKU entrance scholarships
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) half-tuition, full-tuition and full scholarships
- CUHK merit scholarships
Scholarships for students from India
Two HKU awards for students who studied in India.
- HKU scholarship for top CBSE students
- HKU entrance scholarships for students who finished school in India
Rules Differ
Hong Kong Government Scholarships
The Hong Kong government funds these awards for strong students.
Most government awards are for full-time study at publicly funded universities.
Key Benefits of Hong Kong SAR Government Scholarships
HKPFS: HKD 344,400 a year plus HKD 14,400 a year for conferences and research travel, in 2026/27.
Outstanding Performance Scholarship: HKD 80,000 a year for degree students from outside Hong Kong.
Belt and Road Scholarship: covers tuition.
University Scholarships
Universities fund many awards for students from outside Hong Kong.
Considered with your application
At HKU, every bachelor's applicant is considered for entrance scholarships, and results come with the offer.
Where to Look
- Your university's scholarships page.
- The international office or student affairs office at your university.
- The Study in Hong Kong scholarships page.
Application Tips
- Apply for your place on time: many awards are chosen when your offer is sent.
- Keep your exam results and award certificates ready.
Tips for Applying
Simple steps to improve your chances.
Apply for your place early. HKU reads scholarship applications as they arrive, until places are full.
HKU looks at academic merit and non-academic achievements for entrance scholarships.
Read each award's rules: some are for one school board, one group of countries or one level of study.
Use HKU's scholarship finder
Pick your student type and qualification to see the HKU awards you may get.
Plan PhD funding first
For HKPFS, send your first form by 1 December 2026, 12:00 noon Hong Kong time. You then get a reference number and can apply to up to two programmes.
Common Application Mistakes to Avoid
- Missing the HKPFS initial application deadline.
- Forgetting to attach your scholarship letter to your visa form at CUHK.
Common Questions
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