Graduate Study at the University of Oxford
Overview
Established by the Kwok Scholars Association (founded by Dr. Walter Kwok), each year the Kwok Scholarships will provide full funding for exceptional students from Hong Kong SAR and/or mainland China with an intention to serve the betterment of the Hong Kong SAR and/or mainland China community. Scholarships are tenable for the full duration of a standard graduate course (1 or 2 years in length). Priority will be given to subjects related to Public Policy, Psychology, Environmental Studies, and Politics/International Relations.
Value of Scholarship
- Course fees;
- A maintenance grant for living expenses; and
- One return economy airfare.
Thomas Hale, Professor in Public Policy (Global Public Policy), Blavatnik School of Government, the University of Oxford
What makes the University of Oxford MPP program unique?
University of Oxford MPP in detail
Professor Hale’s video on climate change
Professor Hale talked about what makes the Oxford MPP programme unique, the classes he teaches and how the Blavatnik School of Government prepares Hong Kong students for a career in public policy.
Scholars’ Interview – Ayo Chan and Haining Liu, Kwok Scholars
Ayo and Haining talked about the Oxford MPP program and the difference Kwok Scholarships have made to them.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for a graduate Kwok Scholarship, an applicant must:
- be a Chinese citizen from Hong Kong SAR or Mainland China;
- have exceptional academic merit; and
- have been offered a place or have potential to be offered a place to study a graduate course at the University of Oxford that is covered by Kwok Scholarships.
Selection Criteria
Kwok Scholarships aim to foster talents for future leaders to serve the betterment of the Hong Kong SAR and/or mainland China community. The broad selection criteria include:
- have financial need;
- demonstrate outstanding leadership;
- demonstrate a commitment to improve the lives of others and the intention to use his or her studies at the University of Oxford to further that commitment; and
- have a vision of serving the community with his or her field of expertise.
Application Procedures and Timeline
- Candidates must first apply to the University of Oxford for the 2027 entry.
- Eligible candidates who have potential to receive an offer or have received an offer from the University of Oxford should submit a separate application for a Kwok Scholarship via www.kwokscholars.org by 21 March 2027 (Sunday) and will be required to arrange for at least three references to be submitted on their behalf.
- April 2027: Short-listed applicants will be invited for a panel interview.
Application Deadline
Applications open from 15 February 2027 (Monday) to 21 March 2027 (Sunday)
(China Standard Time)
Frequently Asked Questions about the Graduate Kwok Scholarship
How are Kwok Scholars selected?
Kwok Scholarships are need based, candidates need to justify their financial circumstances that they should be awarded Kwok Scholarships. Kwok Scholarships are also merit based. The Association looks for candidates who are committed to improve the lives of others and have a vision to serve the community with his or her field of expertise.
What costs does an Oxford Kwok Scholarship cover?
Kwok Scholarships are full funding scholarships. It covers full university course fees, a maintenance grant for living expenses and one return economy airfare.
What does a Kwok Scholarship maintenance grant cover?
Maintenance grants are determined based on the living costs recommended by the university. It covers food, accommodation, personal items, social activities and study costs.
Can I apply for a Kwok Scholarship to study for a PhD?
No, a PhD is not a programme the Association supports.
Can I apply for a Kwok Scholarship to study a graduate programme other than Master of Public Policy?
Yes, other than Master of Public Policy, you can also apply for a Kwok Scholarship to pursue MSc in Psychological Research, MSc in Biodiversity, Conservation and Management, MSc in Environmental Change and Management, MSc in Nature, Society and Environmental Governance, MSc in Water Science, Policy and Management, MPhil in International Relations, MPhil in Politics (Comparative Government) and MPhil in Politics (Political Theory).
I am a second year master degree student, can I apply?
No, it is the Association's policy not to accept an application from a continuing student.
Am I allowed to accept awards in conjunction with a Kwok Scholarship?
No, a Kwok Scholarship will not normally be held concurrently with other scholarships.
Do I need to translate my university transcripts, which are in Chinese, before I submit them?
No, you do not need to translate your university transcripts.
I am currently a student in the UK. Does it matter if I apply from the UK?
It does not matter where you apply from.
Who covers the cost of attending the interview?
Candidates are expected to cover the full costs of attending the interview, including travelling and accommodation, where applicable.
What documents do I need to take with me to my interview?
Your CV.
What is the dress code of the interview?
Business casual.
What should I expect of the interview?
You will be individually interviewed by our Selection Committee comprised of 3 to 4 interviewers.
What questions will I be asked at the interview?
Some of the information you have provided will be discussed. The interviewers will ask questions to enable you to fully explain your motivation and inspiration to take the programme. Your career goal and intention to serve the community will also be discussed.
Any tips for preparing for the interview?
You may wish to be more familiar with the Kwok Scholarships by checking out our website and social media.
My university is asking me to pay a deposit, what should I do?
If you have been offered a Kwok Scholarship, you can provide your Kwok Scholarship offer letter to the university and ask for a waiver.
What should I consider when indicating a preference for a college?
You do not need to indicate a preference for a college. But if you do, provided that the college offers the relevant graduate programme, you should consider the location, commute, costs, clubs and societies, as they vary among colleges.
Who pays for my accommodation?
Kwok Scholars are responsible for finding and paying their accommodation. Maintenance grant covers accommodation costs, you can pay your accommodation out of your maintenance grant.