HKU ADB Scholarship 2026 in Hong Kong (Fully Funded)
Job Description
HKU ADB Scholarship 2026 in Hong Kong
The HKU ADB Scholarship 2026 is now open for applications!
All international students from ADB member countries are invited to apply for the fully funded master’s scholarship at the University of Hong Kong (HKU).
This prestigious scholarship—funded by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Government of Japan—supports talented individuals who aim to pursue graduate studies and contribute to development in their home countries.
About the ADB–Japan Scholarship Program (ADB–JSP)
The ADB–Japan Scholarship Program was established in 1988, financed by the Government of Japan and administered by the Asian Development Bank.
Its purpose is to provide high-achieving citizens from ADB’s developing member countries with an opportunity to pursue postgraduate studies in economics, management, science, technology, urban planning, and other development-related fields.
Upon completion, scholars are expected to return home and contribute to the economic and social development of their countries.
Key Details of HKU ADB Scholarship 2026
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Host Country | Hong Kong |
| Host Institution | University of Hong Kong (HKU) |
| Degree Level | Master’s |
| Funding | Fully Funded |
| Programs | Master of Urban Design, Master of Science in Urban Planning |
| Eligibility | Citizens of ADB member countries |
| Application Fee | None |
| Deadline | January 2, 2026 |
Why Study at HKU?
- Top 15 university globally (QS 2026 Ranking).
- Located in the vibrant, global city of Hong Kong — a hub for innovation and finance.
- World-class faculty and interdisciplinary research environment.
- Gateway to international career opportunities in Asia-Pacific.
Objective of the HKU ADB Scholarship
The main goal of this program is to empower emerging leaders to address urban challenges and design sustainable cities.
The scholarship provides full financial support for students pursuing:
- Master of Urban Design (MUD)
- Master of Science in Urban Planning (MScUP)
Graduates are expected to become urban planners, architects, or policymakers who can shape more sustainable and equitable communities across Asia and the Pacific.
Host Institution: The University of Hong Kong (HKU)
Founded in 1911, the University of Hong Kong is one of Asia’s top-ranked universities and Hong Kong’s oldest institution of higher learning.
HKU is globally recognized for its excellence in teaching, research, and international collaboration.
Global Rankings:
- QS World University Rankings 2026: #11
- THE World University Rankings 2025: #35
- ARWU 2024: #69
- U.S. News 2025-2026: #44
Financial Benefits
The HKU ADB Scholarship 2026 is a fully funded award. Recipients will receive:
- Full coverage of tuition fees
- Monthly subsistence allowance for living expenses
- Housing allowance
- Allowance for books and instructional materials
- Medical insurance
- Round-trip airfare between the home country and Hong Kong
- No application fee required
This scholarship ensures students can fully focus on their academic and professional growth without financial burden.
Programs Offered
The scholarship is available for the following Master’s programs at HKU:
- Master of Science in Urban Planning (MScUP)
- Focus on sustainable urban planning, policy, and design.
- Combines theoretical and practical training to address real-world urban challenges.
- Master of Urban Design (MUD)
- Geared toward creative and strategic urban design.
- Students learn to develop visionary yet practical solutions for modern cities.
Documents Required
Applicants must prepare the following documents for a complete application package:
- Completed online application form
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- ADB–Japan Scholarship Application Form
- Study and Research Plan
- Official academic transcripts
- Degree certificates
- Two recommendation letters (academic/professional)
- Copy of passport or identity card
- Proof of English language proficiency
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the HKU ADB Scholarship 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be a citizen of an ADB member country eligible for Japanese ODA.
- Must not hold dual citizenship in any developed country.
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent from a recognized institution.
- Have at least two years of full-time professional work experience after earning the bachelor’s degree.
- Be under 35 years old at the time of application.
- Be in good health.
- Must be admitted to an eligible master’s program at HKU.
- Commit to returning to their home country for at least two years after graduation.
- Family annual income should not exceed USD 50,000, and individual income should not exceed USD 25,000.
Eligible Countries
Citizens from the following ADB member countries may apply:
- 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..
How to Apply for the HKU ADB Scholarship 2026
To apply for the HKU ADB Scholarship, follow these steps:
- Apply for admission to one of the eligible master’s programs at the University of Hong Kong:
- After gaining admission, apply separately for the ADB–Japan Scholarship Program (ADB–JSP).
- Complete both applications before the deadline and attach all required documents.
Official ADB–Japan Scholarship Website
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