Unrivalled Excellence
CUHK stands at the forefront of research innovation by establishing five State Key Laboratories with the support of the Ministry of Science and Technology of the People's Republic of China. Our research ecosystem thrives with nearly 300 specialised institutes and centres, led thirteen out of thirty-five prestigious Areas of Excellence of which the University Grants Committee has provided preferential researching funding, fostering ground-breaking interdisciplinary work. We have forged strategic partnerships with external academic institutions, creating dynamic joint research units that amplify our impact.
Why CUHK?
At CUHK, we are driven by a vision of excellence with purpose and responsibility. Our goal? To forge a better future for all, with a special focus on advancing Hong Kong and Chinese Mainland through cutting-edge education, research, innovation, and service.
Globally recognised as a premier comprehensive research university and a jewel in Asia's academic crown, CUHK's journey of excellence continues to inspire.
Our mission is clear: to nurture global scientific and societal thought leaders, empowering them to push the boundaries of research and make lasting impacts.
Join us and be part of a legacy of excellence that's shaping the future of research and innovation!
#32
#10
#1
US News & World Report
Why CUHK?
At CUHK, we are driven by a vision of excellence with purpose and responsibility. Our goal? To forge a better future for all, with a special focus on advancing Hong Kong and Chinese Mainland through cutting-edge education, research, innovation, and service.
Globally recognised as a premier comprehensive research university and a jewel in Asia's academic crown, CUHK's journey of excellence continues to inspire.
Our mission is clear: to nurture global scientific and societal thought leaders, empowering them to push the boundaries of research and make lasting impacts.
Join us and be part of a legacy of excellence that's shaping the future of research and innovation!
Unlock a World of Opportunities with CUHK’s PhD Programmes

Comprehensive PhD Programmes
Recognising the diverse aspirations of our scholars, CUHK offers an expansive array of PhD programmes across eight dynamic Faculties: Arts, Business Administration, Education, Engineering, Law, Medicine, Science, and Social Science. Whatever your passion, you will find a programme that nurtures your intellectual growth and prepares you for leadership in your field.

our Global Academic Community
CUHK stands as a beacon among Asia's top universities, attracting students from diverse global backgrounds. Our vibrant campus serves as an incubator for talent, nurturing each student's unique potential and elevating their academic journey to unprecedented heights.
HKPFS at CUHK
Starting from the 2020-21 intake, all PhD candidates who got nominated to the RGC by CUHK but not selected for HKPFS will be offered a regular PhD place with the CUHK Vice-Chancellor PhD Scholarship.

Stipend
HK$340,800 (approx. US$43,700) per year
Up to HK$1.36 Million (approx. US$174,770)*

Conference and Research-related Travel Allowance
HK$14,200 (approx. US$1,820) per year
Up to HK$86,000 (approx. US$11,130)*

Tuition Fee Waiver
Up to HK$195,500*
(approx. US$25,060)

Lodging Award
Up to HK$100,000*#
(approx. US$12,820)

1st Year Hostel Fee Waiver and Guaranteed On-campus Accommodation^*
Up to HK$1.79 Million (~USD$230,000)
Financial assistance during the normative study period
* During the student’s normative study period.
# An award of HK$40,000 for lodging in the first year of attendance and HK$20,000 in subsequent years during the normative study period.
^ HKPFS awardees who submit hall applications and complete registration procedures in a timely manner.
Starting from the 2020–21 intake, all PhD candidates nominated by CUHK for the RGC but not selected for HKPFS will receive a regular PhD place with the prestigious CUHK Vice-Chancellor's PhD Scholarship.
Requirements
To be considered, applicants must meet CUHK's rigorous admissions criteria and demonstrate exceptional credentials. Here's your step-by-step guide:

Academic Excellence

Research Ability and Potential

Communication and Interpersonal Skills

Leadership Abilities

Cultural Diversity
Application Procedures
01
Submit your initial application through the RGC website to obtain an HKPFS Reference Number [PF2x-xxxxx].
You may select up to TWO programmes in a single application.
Note: If nominated by multiple universities, RGC will process only the nomination from your indicated priority university. To maximise your chances at CUHK, list it as your first choice.
1 Dec 2025 at 12:00nn, Hong Kong Time (GMT + 8 hours)
02
Apply through the CUHK Online Application System, quoting your HKPFS Reference Number.
Important: If you have chosen two CUHK programmes in Step 1, submit separate applications for each.
1 Dec 2025 at 11:59pm, Hong Kong Time (GMT + 8 hours)
03
If shortlisted, participate in an interview to showcase your potential.
04
Await notification of your application outcome if shortlisted.






















