A new comparative study by HSUHK demonstrates that Hong Kong is emerging as a highly competitive destination for doctoral education, driven by flexible post-study immigration pathways, strong funding support, and a dynamic research environment.

The study, titled “Strategies to Attract and Retain High-calibre Talents to Pursue Further Studies at Doctorate Level in Hong Kong for Nurturing Specialised Talents that will Contribute to Hong Kong’s Development,” is led by Professor Joshua Mok, Provost and Vice-President (Academic and Research), and funded by the HKSAR Government. Utilising comparative policy analysis and in-depth interviews with 50 doctoral students and university leaders across Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, and the United Kingdom, the study provides new insights into how global doctoral candidates decide where to pursue and build their research careers.

Early findings indicate that Hong Kong performs strongly in attracting and retaining high‑calibre PhD students amid intensifying international competition for research talent. Hong Kong offers flexible post-study arrangements, including the Top Talent Pass Scheme and the Immigration Arrangements for Non-local Graduates, which allow graduates to remain in the city for up to 24 months without a prior job offer. The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme offers full tuition waivers and generous stipends, enabling students to focus on research excellence. Additionally, local family-friendly policies play a significant role in long-term talent retention. 

The research team has identified four strategic priorities: strengthening post-study immigration pathways, sustaining globally competitive doctoral funding schemes, deepening investment in research infrastructure, and enhancing global promotion of Hong Kong’s doctoral strengths.

Research project details: https://sts.hsu.edu.hk/en/hong-kong-doctoral-talent-development-project/