Why Study in Hong Kong

The Hong Kong higher education system is largely modelled on the British system, but with most universities offering a four-year undergraduate degree programme.

What courses can you study?

Hong Kong universities offer postgraduate diplomas, masters (including MA, MPhil, MSc and MBA) and doctoral (including PhD) degrees. Postgraduate courses are often taught in English but you should check with individual institutions before applying.

Most universities offer beginner-level courses in both Cantonese and Putonghua. See individual university websites for details. If taking a course in English but it isn’t your native language, you may be required to take a TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) or equivalent exam.

How do you apply for postgraduate study?

Entry requirements vary depending on the course and institution but, as the Hong Kong education system is modelled on the British one, UK qualifications are generally accepted. Universities have a lot of direct control over entrance and so application deadlines can differ for certain courses.

There isn’t one central application process and instead you need to apply to each institution directly, which is usually done online. Some may require you to attend an interview.

Contact your university of choice for further information on applications and deadlines.

Fees and scholarships

Tuition fees vary depending on the course and institution. You may need to pay for each credit unit of a course and should contact the university directly for details.

Scholarships are available to overseas students and may cover all or part of the tuition fees. The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government offers scholarships for non-local students studying in one of the eight government-funded institutions. There is also a PhD Fellowship Scheme which provides a stipend of HK$240,000 annually and a conference and research-related travel allowance of HK$10,000 per year for up to three years.

1. It’s not what it seems.

The typical image of Hong Kong is one of endless skyscrapers and fast paced madness. Guidebooks focus on shopping malls and high class restaurants. But this is only a small part of the picture.

As a resident, it’s possible to explore the other side – backstreets full of charismatic and grimy noodle shops and smoky Daoist temples. The ordinary side of Hong Kong is far more interesting.

2. When else can you afford to live there?

It’s hard to afford housing in Hong Kong unless you’re working a high paying job. Even backpacker hostels are more expensive that those in nearby Asian countries. But here’s a secret: Many of the university’s student halls are extremely cheap, providing accommodation in prime real estate locations.

3. Hong Kong has some of the best food in the world.

It’s worth leaving home just to explore the wonderful world of Cantonese cuisine. Cheap yet quality food and the abundant free time of a student’s schedule is a delicious combination – the perfect opportunity to spend a good portion of your week in the boggling number of dim sum restaurants!

4. Hong Kong has plenty of outdoor adventures.

Believe it or not, 70% of Hong Kong is actually covered by national parks. Public transport provides easy access to spectacular spots for hiking, cycling, and rock climbing. Travel outside the city to get a glimpse of more traditional lifestyles, eat some freshly caught fish, and join an army of old ladies for Tai Chi.

5. Hong Kong’s the gateway to mainland China.

China is just a short train ride away; from there, the options are immense.