HKUST Scholarships for International Students 2027 | Fully Funded

Dreaming of studying in a vibrant, technologically advanced city like Hong Kong? The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) offers incredible opportunities for international students to pursue their academic goals. Securing funding can be a significant hurdle, but HKUST provides a range of scholarships designed to support aspiring scholars.

This guide will walk you through the various scholarship options available at HKUST for international students. We’ll cover everything from undergraduate admission awards to prestigious doctoral fellowships, helping you understand the benefits, eligibility, and application process. Prepare to explore how you can make your dream of studying at HKUST a reality.

What are the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Scholarships?

The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) offers several scholarship programs to attract talented international students across its undergraduate, Master’s, and PhD programs. These scholarships aim to recognize academic excellence, research potential, and leadership qualities. Unlike a single, unified scholarship, HKUST utilizes different application models for its various funding opportunities.

These include automatic consideration for undergraduate admission scholarships, separate applications for need-based awards, and specific processes for prestigious fellowships like the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS). The goal is to provide comprehensive financial support, enabling students from around the world to benefit from HKUST’s world-class education and research environment.

Key HKUST Scholarship Routes

HKUST provides distinct pathways for funding, catering to different academic levels and research aspirations:

• HKUST Undergraduate Admission Scholarships: These are often awarded automatically to high-achieving international students applying for undergraduate programs. They can range from partial tuition reductions to full scholarships with living allowances.
• Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) at HKUST: This is a highly competitive fellowship funded by the Research Grants Council, offering substantial financial support for doctoral studies at HKUST. It is designed to attract top global talent to Hong Kong.
• HKUST Postgraduate Studentship and RedBird PhD Award: For research postgraduate students who may not receive the HKPFS, the Postgraduate Studentship provides a regular stipend. The RedBird PhD Award recognizes exceptional doctoral candidates with additional financial benefits.

Benefits and Coverage of HKUST Scholarships

The coverage provided by HKUST scholarships varies significantly depending on the specific award and level of study. Understanding these benefits is key to planning your finances for studying abroad.

Undergraduate Scholarship Coverage

Undergraduate scholarships at HKUST are merit-based and can offer substantial financial assistance. The most generous awards can cover full tuition fees and provide a living allowance.

• Full Tuition and Living Allowance: The highest undergraduate awards can provide full tuition fees plus a living allowance of up to HK$60,000 per academic year. This is often awarded to students with exceptional academic records, such as achieving a perfect score on the IB Diploma.
• Full Tuition: Some scholarships cover the entire tuition fee for the duration of the undergraduate program, which is renewable based on satisfactory academic performance.
• Partial Tuition: Other awards may offer a one-off tuition reduction or renewable half-tuition support for one year.
• Global Learners Scholarship: This scholarship specifically supports students from underrepresented nationalities, offering a full tuition-fee waiver that is renewable.
• Future Leaders Award: This award can provide a one-off HK$50,000 grant or, for applicants with exceptional financial need, full tuition plus a renewable living allowance.

The published non-local undergraduate tuition fee for the 2026-2027 academic year was HK$215,000, a figure that may be revised for 2027 entry.

Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) Coverage

The HKPFS is one of the most comprehensive funding packages available for doctoral studies in Hong Kong. It aims to attract the brightest minds to pursue research in the region.

• Annual Stipend: The fellowship provides a generous annual stipend, currently set at HK$344,400 (approximately HK$28,700 per month).
• Research and Travel Allowance: Recipients receive a conference and research-related travel allowance of HK$14,400 per year to support academic pursuits.
• Tuition Fee Waiver: The fellowship covers the full tuition fees for up to three years of doctoral study.
• Additional University Support: HKUST often supplements the central fellowship with its own awards, such as the RedBird Recruitment Award (HK$40,000 in the first year) and the RedBird Academic Excellence Award (HK$20,000 annually in subsequent years).
• Accommodation: Guaranteed university accommodation is typically provided during the first year of study.

The total value of the HKPFS package at HKUST can be substantial, potentially reaching up to approximately HK$1.7 million over four years. However, it’s important to note that the fellowship does not typically cover international airfare, visa expenses, or dependent allowances.

HKUST Postgraduate Studentship and RedBird PhD Award Coverage

For research postgraduate students not selected for the HKPFS, the Postgraduate Studentship is the primary funding route.

• Postgraduate Studentship: This provides an annual stipend of HK$229,620 (approximately HK$19,135 per month). This funding is available for up to two years for MPhil students and up to four years for PhD students. While it can contribute towards tuition fees, it is not an automatic full tuition waiver.
• RedBird PhD Award: This award recognizes exceptional PhD applicants and can include a Recruitment Award of HK$40,000 for new students, a first-year tuition-fee waiver, and an Academic Excellence Award of HK$20,000 per year for subsequent years. This award may be offered alongside a Postgraduate Studentship.

Eligibility Criteria for HKUST Scholarships

Meeting the eligibility criteria is the first step toward securing any scholarship. HKUST has specific requirements for its undergraduate and postgraduate funding opportunities.

Undergraduate Admission Scholarship Eligibility

To be considered for undergraduate admission scholarships, international students must meet general university admission standards and demonstrate strong academic merit.

• Academic Qualifications: Hold an internationally recognized secondary school qualification (e.g., IB Diploma, GCE A-Levels, SAT/AP, ACT/AP) and complete high school before the program begins.
• English Proficiency: Meet the university’s English-language requirement through accepted tests like IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo, or PTE, or through previous education conducted in English.
• Academic Performance: Exhibit strong academic results in public examinations or a holistic academic profile. Scholarship awards are typically based on these achievements.
• Application Submission: Submit the undergraduate admission application and all required supporting documents by the specified deadlines.

Future Leaders Award Eligibility

This scholarship is for non-local students who demonstrate not only academic excellence but also resilience and a commitment to contributing to the HKUST community.

• Student Status: Must be a non-local student applying directly from high school.
• Application Timing: Must apply during the undergraduate Early Round admission cycle.
• Academic and Personal Qualities: Demonstrate academic excellence, resilience in overcoming challenges, and potential for positive community contribution.
• Financial Need: For the higher-value award (full tuition plus living allowance), applicants must provide compelling evidence of significant financial need.

Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) Eligibility

The HKPFS is open to aspiring doctoral students from all over the world who meet rigorous academic and research standards.

• Academic Record: Possess an outstanding academic background, typically a strong bachelor’s or master’s degree.
• Research Potential: Demonstrate exceptional research ability and potential, often evidenced by previous research experience, publications, or a strong research proposal.
• Global Outlook: Show evidence of international exposure, communication skills, and leadership potential.
• Application Process: Complete both the initial application through the Research Grants Council (RGC) portal and a separate, full application to HKUST.

MPhil and PhD Academic Requirements

General academic prerequisites apply for postgraduate research programs at HKUST.

• MPhil Applicants: Typically require a bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution or an equivalent approved qualification.
• PhD Applicants: Usually need a bachelor’s degree with a record of outstanding performance or evidence of satisfactory postgraduate-level work.
• Programme-Specific Requirements: Individual departments may have higher academic prerequisites, require specific subject knowledge, or request GRE/GMAT scores, portfolios, or interviews.

English-Language Requirements

Meeting English proficiency standards is crucial for all international applicants.

• Undergraduate: Common requirements include IELTS Academic (overall 6.0), TOEFL iBT (score of 80), Duolingo (overall 125), or PTE Academic (overall 64). Specific grades in IB English or other accepted qualifications are also considered.
• Postgraduate: Generally, IELTS Academic (overall 6.5 with each component at least 5.5) or TOEFL iBT (score of 80) is required. Some applicants may be exempt if English is their native language or if their prior degree was taught entirely in English.

Required Documents for HKUST Scholarships

Gathering the correct documentation is a critical part of the scholarship application process. The required documents vary based on the program level and the specific scholarship.

Undergraduate Scholarship Documents

For undergraduate admission and associated scholarships, applicants typically need to prepare the following:

• Completed Online Application: The primary application form submitted through the HKUST admissions portal.
• Identity Document: A copy of your passport or other valid identification.
• Personal Statement: An essay detailing your academic interests, reasons for choosing HKUST and the program, extracurricular activities, and future goals.
• Academic Transcripts: High school transcripts covering the previous three years.
• Graduation Certificate: Proof of high school completion or expected graduation.
• Examination Results: Predicted or final results from public examinations (e.g., IB, A-Levels, SAT).
• English Proficiency Proof: Scores from accepted tests like IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo, or PTE.
• Academic References: Details of referees who can provide academic recommendations, if required by the application.
• Certificates of Achievements: Evidence of prizes, awards, leadership roles, volunteer work, or significant extracurricular involvement.
• Programme-Specific Materials: Portfolios or supplementary documents required by certain programs.
• Translations: Certified translations for documents not originally in English or Chinese.

Future Leaders Award Documents

In addition to the standard undergraduate documents, applicants for the Future Leaders Award need to provide specific information related to their circumstances.

• Future Leaders Award Application Form: A dedicated form for this scholarship.
• Statement of Circumstance: An essay detailing financial situation, challenges overcome, and potential contributions to HKUST.
• Declaration on Family Finances: A formal statement outlining household income and financial status.
• Recommendation Letter: A letter of recommendation, often from a school counselor or teacher, that speaks to the applicant’s character and potential.
• Financial Evidence: Documents supporting the family’s income, employment, and exceptional financial circumstances.

MPhil and PhD Scholarship Documents

For research postgraduate applications, including those seeking Postgraduate Studentships or the RedBird PhD Award, the following are generally required:

• Completed Postgraduate Application: The online application submitted via the HKUST research admissions system.
• Identity Document and Visa Information: Passport copy and relevant visa details if applicable.
• Degree Certificates: Bachelor’s and Master’s (if applicable) degree certificates.
• Academic Transcripts: Complete transcripts for all tertiary education, along with the institutional grading scale.
• English Proficiency Proof: IELTS or TOEFL scores, or a Medium of Instruction letter if applicable.
• Research Proposal: A detailed plan outlining your proposed research, its significance, methodology, and expected outcomes.
• Research Experience Description: A summary of your previous research work, projects, and any publications.
• Academic CV: A curriculum vitae highlighting your academic background, research experience, and achievements.
• Academic References: Typically, two to five confidential reference letters from academic or professional supervisors.
• GRE/GMAT Scores: May be required by specific programs.
• Programme-Specific Documents: Additional materials like portfolios or writing samples as requested by the department.
• Evidence of Achievements: Proof of publications, awards, conference presentations, or research employment.

Additional HKPFS Information

Applicants for the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme must also submit an initial application to the Research Grants Council (RGC) and ensure consistency between both applications.

• Initial RGC Application: The first step in the HKPFS application process.
• HKPFS Reference Number: This number must be included in the HKUST application.
• Research Proposal: A strong, well-defined research proposal is critical for this highly competitive fellowship.
• Evidence of Leadership and Communication: Demonstrating these soft skills is important for the selection process.

Application Process for HKUST Scholarships

The application process for HKUST scholarships differs significantly between undergraduate and postgraduate levels, and even among different types of postgraduate funding.

Applying for HKUST Undergraduate Admission Scholarships

The process for undergraduate scholarships is generally integrated with the admission application.

1. Research Programs: Explore the HKUST undergraduate programs to find a course that aligns with your academic background and interests. Pay close attention to program-specific subject requirements.
2. Check Qualification Requirements: Review the international qualifications page for specific entry requirements based on your educational system.
3. Prepare Documents: Gather all necessary documents, including transcripts, examination results, English proficiency proof, and a compelling personal statement.
4. Create an Account: Register and complete the HKUST undergraduate application system . The application fee is typically HK$600.
5. Upload Documents and Nominate Referees: Submit all required documents online and provide details for your academic referee if requested.
6. Submit Application: Apply during the Early or Main Round. Applying early is particularly beneficial for those seeking competitive scholarships.
7. Automatic Scholarship Consideration: Standard academic admission scholarships, the Global Learners Scholarship, and school/programme-level awards are usually considered automatically upon application submission. Scholarship results are typically communicated with the admission offer.
8. Separate Application for Future Leaders Award: If you are applying for the Future Leaders Award, you must complete its separate scholarship application form, which includes financial and personal statements.

Applying for the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) at HKUST

The HKPFS application involves a two-stage process.

1. Select a PhD Program: Identify a suitable PhD program from the HKUST research postgraduate programmes that matches your research interests.
2. Identify Potential Supervisors: While not always mandatory, contacting potential supervisors in your field can strengthen your application and confirm supervision availability.
3. Prepare Research Proposal: Develop a strong research proposal outlining your intended study.
4. Submit Initial RGC Application: Complete the initial application through the HKPFS Electronic System . This step assigns you an HKPFS reference number.
5. Submit HKUST Application: Complete a separate PhD application through the HKUST Online Admission System , quoting your HKPFS reference number. The application fee is typically HK$180 per program.
6. Upload Documents: Submit all required academic documents, research proposal, and referee details.
7. Attend Interview: If shortlisted, you will be invited for an interview to discuss your academic background, research plans, and suitability for doctoral study.
8. Nomination and Notification: HKUST nominates its strongest candidates to the RGC. Successful applicants receive the HKPFS award and additional HKUST funding.

Applying for the HKUST Postgraduate Studentship

The Postgraduate Studentship is generally awarded automatically as part of the research admission process.

1. Select a Program: Choose an eligible full-time MPhil or PhD program from the HKUST postgraduate programme catalogue .
2. Check Deadlines and Requirements: Note the specific application deadline and admission criteria for your chosen program. Applications for Fall 2027 admission typically open in September 2026.
3. Prepare Application Materials: Gather your academic CV, research proposal, transcripts, degree certificates, English proficiency proof, and referee information.
4. Submit Research Application: Complete the research admission application through the HKUST Online Admission System. Indicate your need for financial support within the application.
5. Automatic Consideration: Qualified full-time MPhil and PhD applicants are automatically considered for the Postgraduate Studentship. Funding details are usually included in the admission offer.
6. RedBird PhD Award Consideration: Outstanding PhD applicants may also be considered for the RedBird PhD Award without a separate application.

Tips for a Successful Scholarship Application

Applying for scholarships can be competitive, but with careful preparation and a strategic approach, you can significantly improve your chances of success.

• Start Early: Begin your research and application process well in advance of the deadlines. This allows ample time to gather documents, write compelling essays, and secure strong recommendations.
• Understand the Scholarship: Thoroughly research each scholarship you are interested in. Understand its specific goals, eligibility criteria, and what the selection committee is looking for. Tailor your application to meet these requirements.
• Craft a Strong Personal Statement/Research Proposal: This is your opportunity to showcase your unique qualifications, aspirations, and suitability for the scholarship. Be clear, concise, and authentic. For research programs, a well-defined and feasible research proposal is paramount.
• Choose Referees Wisely: Select individuals who know you well academically and can speak to your strengths, potential, and character. Provide them with sufficient information about the scholarship and your application well in advance.
• Proofread Everything: Errors in grammar, spelling, or punctuation can detract from your application. Carefully proofread all submitted materials, or ask someone else to review them.
• Highlight Achievements: Don’t just list your accomplishments; explain their significance and how they demonstrate your suitability for the scholarship. Quantify your achievements whenever possible.
• Demonstrate Fit: Clearly articulate why you are a good fit for HKUST and the specific program or scholarship. Show that you have researched the university and understand its values and academic offerings.
• Follow Instructions Precisely: Adhere strictly to all application instructions, including formatting guidelines, document requirements, and submission deadlines. Missing a detail can lead to disqualification.
• Consider Financial Need (Where Applicable): For need-based scholarships like the Future Leaders Award, provide clear and honest documentation of your financial situation.
• Stay Organized: Keep track of deadlines, required documents, and application portals for each scholarship. A spreadsheet can be very helpful for managing multiple applications.

By following these tips and thoroughly understanding the scholarship opportunities at HKUST, you can present a strong case for yourself and increase your chances of securing the funding needed to pursue your academic dreams in Hong Kong.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of scholarships does HKUST offer to international students?

HKUST offers undergraduate admission scholarships, the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS), Postgraduate Studentships, and the RedBird PhD Award, among others.

What does the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) cover?

The HKPFS covers a generous annual stipend, a research and travel allowance, and full tuition fees for up to three years of doctoral study, often supplemented by university awards.

How are undergraduate scholarships at HKUST awarded?

Many undergraduate scholarships are awarded automatically to high-achieving international students based on their admission application, while others like the Future Leaders Award require a separate application.

What are the general eligibility requirements for HKUST scholarships?

Eligibility typically includes strong academic qualifications, meeting English proficiency standards, and for postgraduate studies, demonstrating significant research potential.