Are you a bright student from an Asian Development Bank (ADB) member country seeking a fully funded scholarship to pursue your master’s degree in one of Asia’s top universities? The University of Hong Kong ADB Scholarship 2026 is your golden chance to study in Hong Kong with full financial support. This prestigious scholarship program funded by the Asian Development Bank Japan Scholarship Program (ADB-JSP) covers tuition, living expenses, airfare, insurance, and more for graduate studies at the University of Hong Kong (HKU). Discover how to apply, eligibility, benefits, and why this scholarship stands out for aspiring international students.
Basic Information About the University of Hong Kong ADB Scholarship 2026
- Scholarship Name: University of Hong Kong ADB Scholarship 2026
- Host Institution: University of Hong Kong (HKU)
- Degree Level: Master’s Degree
- Applications Open: Yes, for the 2026 academic year
- Application Deadline: January 2, 2026
- ADB Scholarship Deadline: 30th January 2026
- Scholarship Type: Fully Funded
- Eligible Countries: Nationals of ADB borrowing member countries (includes Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, Philippines, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, and more)
- Field of Study: Economics, Management, Science and Technology, Urban Design, Public Policy, and other development-related areas
About the University of Hong Kong (HKU)
The University of Hong Kong is ranked 17th in the QS World University Rankings 2025, making it one of Asia’s most prestigious academic institutions. HKU is renowned for its world-class education, research facilities, and international academic environment. Situated in Hong Kong, a vibrant financial and innovation hub, students gain exposure to diverse cultures and global networking opportunities.
Purpose and Scope
- Offers scholarships for the Master of Urban Design or Master of Science in Urban Planning at The University of Hong Kong (HKU).
- Aims to support qualified citizens of ADB member countries.
- Scholars must return home and work for at least 2 years after completing their studies.
- Multiple scholarships are available each year.
Available Study Areas and Programs
The University of Hong Kong ADB Scholarship supports graduate studies mainly in
Science and Technology
- Agriculture
- Biological Science
- Computer Science
- Energy
- Engineering
- Environment
- Forestry
- Genetics
- Health
Economics, Business, and Management
- Accounting
- Business Administration / Management
- Commerce
- E-Business
- Entrepreneurship
- Economics
- Finance
- International Cooperation
- Social Sciences
Development Studies
- Asia Pacific Studies
- Development Management
- Development Studies
Law and Public Policy
- International Business Law
- International Environmental Law
- Policy Studies
- Political Science
- Public Administration
- Public Policy
University of Hong Kong ADB Scholarship Benefits
The ADB Scholarship at HKU is a fully funded program that provides extensive financial coverage including:
- Full tuition fees
- Monthly living and housing allowance
- Books and instructional materials
- Medical insurance
- Travel expenses
- Research/Thesis grant (if applicable)
- May also cover language or computer training if needed.
What the Scholarship Does Not Cover
- Personal expenses beyond the monthly allowance
- Expenses related to dependents or family members
- Preparatory language courses beyond special cases
- Non-academic travel expenses unrelated to the program
Applicants should plan additional funds for incidental costs beyond what the scholarship provides.
Eligibility Criteria for the University of Hong Kong ADB Scholarship
To qualify, applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Citizen of an ADB borrowing member country.
- No dual citizenship with any developed country.
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree with a strong academic record.
- At least 2 years of full-time professional experience after graduation.
- Age limit: Not more than 35 years old (exceptions possible).
- Family income ≤ USD 50,000/year, and individual income ≤ USD 25,000/year.
- Must be in good health.
- Must return to the home country after studies.
- Not eligible if:
- You work for ADB or are related to ADB staff.
- You are currently enrolled in a graduate program.
- You live/work outside your home country.
Eligible Countries
Citizens from ADB borrowing member countries such as:
Afghanistan, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cambodia, Cook Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, Georgia, India, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Kiribati, Kyrgyz Republic, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Maldives, Marshall Islands, Mongolia, Myanmar, Nauru, Nepal, Niue, Pakistan, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Sri Lanka, Tajikistan, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Tonga, Turkmenistan, Tuvalu, Uzbekistan, Vanuatu and Viet Nam.
Required Documents for Scholarship Application
Applicants need to prepare and upload the following documents:
- Completed online application form (via University of Hong Kong website)
- ADB Scholarship application form
- Official academic transcripts and certificates of graduation
- Field of study and research proposal
- Two academic or professional recommendation letters
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) / Resume
- Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent)
- Valid passport copy
- Medical examination report (when requested)
University of Hong Kong ADB Scholarship Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide
- Check Eligibility: Confirm you meet all criteria outlined above.
- Choose Program: Select your preferred master’s degree program at HKU that aligns with development and ADB priorities.
- Prepare Documents: Gather all required academic transcripts, certificates, research proposal, recommendations, and English proficiency proof.
- Online Application: Apply through the University of Hong Kong’s official scholarship portal before the deadline (January 2, 2026).
- Endorsement: The university will verify your admission and endorse your application to ADB.
- Selection Process: ADB conducts a rigorous review including academic merit, work experience, and development focus.
- Interview: Selected finalists may be invited for an interview.
- Award: Successful candidates receive a scholarship offer to begin study.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Start preparing early, gathering all necessary documents well before the deadline.
- Write a clear, focused research proposal showing relevance to ADB’s development goals.
- Secure strong recommendation letters from academic or professional referees familiar with your work.
- Highlight your professional experience and future plans to contribute to your home country.
- Follow all application instructions meticulously and submit a polished, error-free application.
- Reach out to HKU admissions or past ADB scholars for advice.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students in Hong Kong (in USD)
Hong Kong is a dynamic but relatively expensive city to live in. The average monthly living costs for international students range from approximately:
- Accommodation (shared dorm or student hall): $500 – $900
- Food and Groceries: $200 – $350
- Transportation: $50 – $70
- Utilities and Internet: $100 – $150
- Books and Study Materials: $80 – $120
- Personal Expenses: $100 – $200
Overall, students can expect living costs around $1,000 to $1,400 per month, which the ADB scholarship’s monthly allowance aims to cover comfortably.
Why Choose the University of Hong Kong ADB Scholarship 2026?
- Fully Funded Scholarship: No tuition or living expense worries, allowing you to focus on your studies without financial stress.
- World-Class Education: Study at HKU, a top-ranked global university in a vibrant international city.
- Research and Career Growth: Access to cutting-edge research facilities and diverse career pathways.
- Exposure to Regional Development Issues: Tailored programs focused on Asia-Pacific economic and social development.
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with peers, experts, and ADB professionals for future collaborations.
- Supportive Scholarship Community: Comprehensive student support services including health insurance and accommodation assistance.
- Contribute to Home Country: Scholarship requires graduates to return and apply skills, making a regional impact.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can undergraduate students apply for this scholarship?
No, this scholarship is primarily for master’s level studies.
Q2: Does the scholarship cover family members?
No, dependents’ expenses are not covered.
Q3: What is the application deadline for 2026?
The final deadline usually falls on or around January 2, 2026.
Q4: How competitive is the University of Hong Kong ADB Scholarship?
Highly competitive due to full funding and limited spots; strong academic records and relevant experience are essential.
Q5: Can I apply if I have studied abroad before?
Generally, candidates who have not previously studied abroad have priority.
Deadline:
- Application Deadline: January 2, 2026
- ADB Scholarship Deadline: 30th January 2026
Official Link:
This detailed guide on the University of Hong Kong ADB Scholarship 2026 is your road map to a life-changing educational opportunity in Hong Kong. Start preparing your applications early, follow the tips for success, and get ready to join a vibrant international academic community dedicated to development and innovation.
