Divine Student Consultancy Study Destination

Hong Kong

Divine Associates Ltd.

Study in Hong Kong

Hong Kong is Asia’s top academic and research hub, second only to Singapore. According to QS, Hong Kong ranks 12th in the world as the best city for international students. Being Asia’s financial and business center and close to China, there are many career opportunities for international students after graduation in Hong Kong. Visa policies in Hong Kong are flexible and adaptable to fresh graduates from universities of Hong Kong, as well as those from other countries.

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Hong Kong is one of Asia’s top academic and research centres, second only to Singapore. According to QS, Hong Kong ranks 12th in the world as the best city for international students. Being Asia’s financial and business center and close to China, there are many career opportunities for international students after graduation. Visa policies in Hong Kong are very flexible and accommodating for fresh graduates of the universities of Hong Kong and for graduates from different countries. Hong Kong’s east-meets-west urbanized culture, vibrant metropolis, historic roots, fast-paced lifestyle and well-developed economy make it an ideal place for international students to study abroad successfully and productively. Despite the worldwide accreditation and prestige of the higher education institutions, the tuition fee in Hong Kong remains relatively low.

Admission Requirements In Hong Kong Universities

The selection process of universities in Hong Kong is very strict and merit-based. The candidates are evaluated on the basis of the following factors: Entry tests Interviews Academic records Language tests Admissions requirements may differ from one university to another and also depending on the study programme Admissions requirements vary from one academic level to another (under gradate to post graduate) (Read Admission Requirements of Study Abroad in Hong Kong in Detail Here).

Admission Requirements for Under Graduate Programs:

Entry Test (SAT, ACT, GRE, GMAT, Advance Placement Test depends on the university’s requirements), All previous degrees have to be passed with high marks, subject-wise minimum marks will be based on your chosen course of study, English language aptitude test certificate like IELTS or TOEFL, interview will be conducted via Skype.

Admission Requirements for Post Graduate Programs:

Bachelor’s honors degree with high grade and minimum 30 credit hours completed. Requirements for entrance exam and interview depending on your selected university in Hong Kong. English Language Proficiency Test Certificate and Research Proposal if taking Admission in Research Course and CV for PhD candidates. Previous Research Experience for PhD candidates.

Hong Kong Student Visa Requirements

The university at which you applied admission in Hong Kong will send you a letter of acceptance (letter of acceptance) or offer letter (letter of offer) if you meet the academic eligibility of the university. The letter of acceptance is the most essential document for Hong Kong student visa. The other process will begin after you get the acceptance letter. You will visit the Hong Kong Embassy and get the information for the visa and the documents list that needs to be submitted along with the visa application. What documents are required for student visa in Hong Kong?

Visa application form
Recent photographs of applicant
Acceptance letter from University in Hong Kong
Bank Statement (proving the candidate has enough finances to cover his/her living and study expenses)
Transcript of your academic certificates, diplomas, degrees
Proof of accommodation arranged in Hong Kong (address and rental contract of your residence arranged in Hong Kong)
Language Proficiency Test Certificate
Pubic Examination Certificate (GRE, GMAT, SAT, ACT etc)

Permanent Residency In Hong Kong

The “permanent residency visa” of Hong Kong is issued to the applicant if he/she has resided in Hong Kong for a continuous period of 7 years on the basis of legal documents and has fulfilled the requirements of a responsible citizen. Graduates who have successfully completed their undergraduate or postgraduate degree from an accredited institution in Hong Kong can apply for 12 months visa under IANG program. If the Graduates apply for IANG program within 6 months after their graduation, they do not need to submit an employment offer. However, if they apply for IANG after 6 months after graduation, they need to submit employment offer. The Visa will be issued initially for 12 months, which can be extended by 1 year in the first extension, then by 2 years in the second extension, and then by 3 years in the third extension. After 7 years of continuous residence in Hong Kong, the Graduates can apply for PR Visa of Hong Kong. Graduates belonging to other countries can apply for 1 years Work Visa of Hong Kong, provided they have employment contract with Hong Kong based organization.click here

Comparison Of Expenses In Hong Kong

Hong Kong’s study expenses are relatively low, but it’s one of the world’s most expensive cities. Rents, food and utility bills in Hong Kong are much higher than in the UK, US and Australia. According to an estimate, a student would need to spend nearly HK$45k in 12 months to live in Hong Kong, excluding study expenses. Most of Hong Kong’s population uses public transportation for their daily commute. Accommodation is in high-rise buildings, not large houses. Food fusion is common in Hong Kong, as there are many cultures habituated to different cuisines.

Study Expenses:

Average tuition fee of under graduate programme in universities of Hong Kong is around HKD 140,000 to HKD 170,000 per annum.
Average tuition fee of post graduate (Masters) programme in universities of Hong Kong is around HKD 300,000 per year.
Average tuition fee of post graduate (PhD) programme in universities of Hong Kong is around HKD450,000 per year.

Living Expenses:

Accommodation rents:

On Campus: US$1,900 to US$5,800 per year

Shared bedroom (Off Campus): US $2,333.56 per month
Studio Apartment (Off Campus): US $1, 642.55 per month
Three bedroom apartment (Off Campus): US $4, 941.39 per month

Food and Other Expenditures:

Monthly pass of public transport: US $63.70

Monthly utility bills: US $192.1
Gym membership: US $78.41
1 Kg rice: US $2.06
Dozen eggs: US $3.16
1 Kg Chicken Breast Piece: US $9.97
1 Kg Beef Meat: US $20.10
1 kg Apples: US $3.33
1 Kg Bananas: US $2.31
1 Kg Oranges: US $2.88
1 Kg Tomatoes: US $2.95
1 Kg Potatoes: US $2.43
1 Kg Onions: US $2.38

Part Time Work Permission in Hong Kong

International students are not allowed to work part-time off campus in Hong Kong. Internships and traineeships offered or organized by universities are the only part-time jobs allowed to international students. Internships are curriculum-related and degree-related. International students who are enrolled in full-time study programmes for at least one year at an accredited University of Hong Kong are allowed to do internships at campus. Internships are required to last for 6 months. Internships can be paid or unpaid. There is no limit on the amount of unpaid internships. During the summer holidays, international students are allowed to work summer jobs that are also on campus. International students can work summer jobs for 20 hours per week and the salary is up to the hosting University in Hong Kong. However, summer jobs are only allowed from 1 June to 31 August.

Post Graduate Work Opportunities in Hong Kong

There are two immigration programmes for international students post graduation to work in Hong Kong.

The Immigration Arrangements for Non-local Graduates (IANG) program
General Employment Policy (GEP) program

Studying abroad is a journey of self-discovery, education and professional development. Hong Kong has been ranked at 3^rd position by Global Financial Centers Index for being a world’s leading financial center. Higher education institutions in Hong Kong are renowned for their excellent research network and teaching methods, which have helped them to rise in world rankings and gain credibility among academic experts. It is no surprise that three of the universities in Hong Kong are among the world’s top 50 best universities, and the degrees obtained from Hong Kong are well-known worldwide. For the learner and the adventurer in you, there is no better place to be than in Hong Kong, where you will have the opportunity to experience diverse cultures, ancient history, a fusion of Eastern and Western culture, and all this during your education. The manifold advantages of Hong Kong as an international study abroad destination are recognized by academics and students around the world. Here, we explain why studying in Hong Kong is worth it for international students.

Hong Kong is an Education Hub

The primary objective of studying abroad is to acquire the highest quality of education, knowledge and skills. Hong Kong’s higher education sector has achieved excellence through the implementation of a robust research network, inclusive curriculum development, quality assurance measures, international cooperation and teaching methods that focus on broadening the student’s perspective and improving their cognitive abilities. The top ranked universities in Hong Kong are:

The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST),
University of Hong Kong (HKU),
The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK)

Permission to Extend Visa After Graduation in Hong Kong

As a student, it is only logical for you to know the post graduation options in the country you want to study abroad. With the aim of making Hong Kong one of the most preferred study abroad destinations, the HKSAR Government has relaxed the entry visa requirements and extended the period of validity of the visa to one year for international students completing their degrees for the purpose of job search.

Affordable Tuition Fee

The cost of university tuition in Hong Kong can vary depending on the course, but it’s usually pretty low. For instance, a full-time post-graduate program in Hong Kong usually costs around $140,000-150,000 a year, which is pretty cheap compared to places like the US and the UK. Plus, there are scholarships offered to international students by both government and private organizations to get more foreign students to enroll. These scholarships are based on things like merit, research capability, academic excellence, and leadership qualities.

Multicultural Environment

Hong Kong has been ruled by the British for 156 years, so it’s naturally adopted the same culture and lifestyle as the rest of the world. But there’s still a mix of old history, modern architecture, culture, and Chinese roots that make it an interesting mix. You’ll get to experience the city’s well-organized transportation system, Disney Land, tall skyscrapers, tai chi, and soccer all in one place. The fast-paced lifestyle will be tough to adjust to at first, but it’ll all be worth it when you finish your study abroad in Hong Kong.

Hong Kong’s universities have been able to maintain a high level of education through a rigorous admission process, internationally-recognized curriculum design, well-trained staff, and regular improvements in the academic structure of the study programmes. The education system in Hong Kong is well-structured and well-administered, ensuring that the standards are maintained and match up with high-profile international universities. Not only will you have a top-class education attainment, but you will also have the opportunity to explore career opportunities since Hong Kong is the hub of international companies and start-ups. If you are able to do an internship or traineeship through your university’s well-structured study programmes, you will have the chance to explore career opportunities all over the world. The admission process in universities of Hong Kong is explained in this guide.

Choosing the Most Suitable Study Programme

When selecting a study programme, the first thing you need to focus on is your interests and career aspirations. Pick the set of courses and majors that you are most interested in and passionate about, and the rest will follow. In the process of deciding which study programme will be most suitable for you in the future, consider the following factors before making your decision:

The study programme you choose must enhance your existing qualification and skills.
Does the curriculum of your study programme include subjects of your interest?
Career scope and employment opportunities related to your study programme.
Every study programme has many specialization options such as you can do civil engineering, mechanical engineering, and chemical engineering etc, so search thoroughly and pay attention to details before committing to one.
Do you meet entry requirements?, so short list at least three study programmes and send application for all three so that you can get admission in one of it.

Choose the Best University in Hong Kong for Pursuing your Degree

Hong Kong is the home of many world-class universities that are renowned and prestigious all over the world. The Universities in Hong Kong have made quality education and skills enhancement their top priority. The tuition fee is also quite high for non-local students to increase the number of students enrolled. Therefore, there is no need to worry about quality in Hong Kong. However, you need to consider the following factors when choosing a university to study at in Hong Kong.

Affordability of fee
Admission requirements
Location of University’s Campus
On Campus Residence Facility
University’s global ranking

Admission Requirements

Academic Requirements
Language Requirements

Academic Requirements:

The academic requirement for admission to universities in Hong Kong will largely depend on the study programmes and the universities you apply to. Each study programme will have subject wise grade requirement which will be explained to you in detail while you are applying for admission. General academic requirement including minimum grade for under grad and post grad courses are:

For under graduate study program

Higher Secondary School Certificate
Entrance examinations such as SAT Reasoning Test/ACT/Advanced Placement Test, GMAT, GRE will be taken (it depends on the university’s requirements)
Interview
Language proficiency requirements.

For admission in post graduate study program

Higher Secondary School Certificate
Bachelor’s Honors Degree with no failed subject and good CGPA and at least 30 credit units
Interview
Entrance examination depends on university’s requirements
Work experience
Research proposal if applying for Masters (research course)
Language proficiency requirements.

Language Requirements:

Applicants from non-English-speaking countries are required to demonstrate their proficiency in English in order to be admitted in English-teached degree programmes in Hong Kong. Hong Kong Universities accept the IELTS (International Elasticated Letter Test), TOEFL (International Tertiary English Language Test) and Cambridge English Language Assessment (English Language Test) as language requirements. Minimum grades for each of the English language proficiency tests are as follows:

IELTS: 6.5 to 7 score in overall bands
TOEFL: Minimum 79 scores in the internet based TOEFL exam
Cambridge English Language Assessment Test: In Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE) the minimum grades must be C or above it and in Certificate in Advanced English (CAE) also C grades at least.

Documents Requirements:

The documents required by universities of Hong Kong for admissions are enlisted below:

Identity documents (Passport, Birth Certificate)
Transcripts of academic records, certificates, diploma (along with a document explain the grading system of your country)
Language proficiency test certificate (IELTS, TOEFL, Cambridge)
Public examination score reports (GRE, GMAT, SAT, ACT etc) it is programme specific and depends on university’s admission requirements.
For Post Graduate Research Courses (Research proposal, experience in research past references, and letter explaining plan for future research)
Reference Letters (at least from two of your professors)
Signed and completed admission form
Supporting documents (your academic achievements, work experience, participation in extracurricular activities).
Application fee receipt (it can be around HKD $450)
The required documents be verified and attested by related authorities. (To ensure the authenticity).
Make sure to provide valid information only.

Admission Deadlines

The admission dates vary from university to university in Hong Kong. If you want to enroll in a fall semester, start your preparation from spring and prepare your perquisites. Admissions to universities in Hong Kong usually begin in January or May.

Hong Kong is one of the most economically developed cities in the world. It is a major business hub in Asia and has strong networks all over the world. The population of Hong Kong has one of the highest IQs in the world, and one of the longest life expectancies. The high standard of living and highly sought-after educational institutions attract international students to study abroad. If you are thinking of studying in Hong Kong, then the following guide will help you to estimate your study and living costs as an international student.

Study Expenses in Hong Kong for Students

In universities of Hong Kong, the tuition fee for non local students is higher than the tuition fee for local students. The amount of tuition fee varies from university to university and depending on the study programme. In addition to tuition fee, non local students will have to pay other expenses like registration fees, application fees, annual subscription fees and a certain amount of money which non local students will submit as ‘caution money’ which will be deposited at the time of graduation. The government of Hong Kong runs several scholarship programmes to finance the living expenses and study expenses of both local students and non local students.

Tuition fee for Undergraduate Programs

The average tuition fee for an under graduate program is between HKD 140,00 and HKD 170,00 per year.

Tuition fee for post graduate (Masters) programs

The average post graduate programme tuition fee will be between HKD 70000-150000 per annum:

Arts courses: From HKD75, 000 to HKD 90,000 (US$ 9,671-US$ 11,605).
Business Administration (MBA): From HKD 70,800 to HKD 512,336 (US$ 9,129-US$ 66,062) for entire course.
Engineering courses: From HKD 69,000 to HKD 108,000 (US$ 8,897-US$ 13,926) per year.
Law courses: HKD 4,410 (US$ 567) per semester
Medicine courses: From HKD 42,500 to HKD 151,200 (US$ 5480-US$ 19,496) per year.

Tuition fee for Post graduate (PHD) program

The average post graduate PhD programme tuition fee will be approximately HKD 4500,000 per annum.

List of Merit based Scholarships

There are several merit based scholarships ran by government of Hong Kong that are funding study and living expenses of international students are as the following:

HKU Foundation Entrance Scholarships
HKU Foundation Scholarships for Students with International Baccalaureate Diploma
HKU Foundation Scholarships for Students with GCE A-Level/ International A-Level Qualifications
HeForShe IMPACT Champion Scholarships

Living Expenses in Hong Kong

Hong Kong city living costs are higher than you might think. Being a global business hub and one of the top tourist destinations in the world, the cost of meals, accommodation, and travelling for a student is quite high. According to the estimation, a student would need an average of HK$45,00 for his living expenses over a 12 months period excluding study expenses. However, a large percentage of these costs can be reduced if you spend your money wisely and carefully.

Accommodation:

Universities prioritize international students for on campus housing over local students, so you’ll need to show proof of where you’re staying for your Hong Kong visa. Hong Kong has a lot of people living in the city, which means the rent is usually pretty high. Whether you’re renting a private place or an off campus apartment, the cost will depend on where it is and what amenities it has. Generally, you won’t have to pay any utility bills for off campus accommodation, but if you’re living on campus, you’ll have to pay those too. So basically, if you’re looking for a place to stay, the university will be the cheapest option, but you can find other options too.

On Campus Single room in Hostel: US$1,900 to US$5,800 per year
One Bedroom Apartment (Off Campus) in City Center: US $2,333.56 per month
One Bedroom Apartment (Off Campus) outside City Center: US $1, 642.55 per month
Three Bedrooms Apartment (Off Campus) in City Center: US $4, 941.39 per month
Three Bedrooms Apartment (Off Campus) outside City Center: US $3,200.81 per month

Transportation:

Hong Kong’s public transport system is one of the most efficient, well-maintained, comfortable, and punctual in the world. Approximately 90% of the city’s population uses public transport for their daily commutes, which is an accomplishment in itself and a testament to its quality and effectiveness.

(Public transport) One way ticket to any route in the city: US $1.27
(Public transport) Monthly pass: US $63.70
Tariff of taxi (1 Km): US $1.08

Food:

Cooking at home will not only be healthy but also affordable. The estimate prices of day to day useable beverages and eatables in Hong Kong are as follows:

Meal for one person in an inexpensive restaurant will cost: US $6.37
Meal for two persons in a mediocre restaurant will cost: US $50. 97
Combo meal for one person from Mc Donald’s or Big Mac or equivalent fast food chain will cost: US $4.46
Coke or Pepsi half liter bottle: US $1.22
Water half liter bottle: US $1.03
1 liter milk bottle: US $2.91
Loaf of white bread fresh: US $2.29
1 Kg rice: US $2.06
Dozen eggs: US $3.16
1 Kg Chicken Breast Piece: US $9.97
1 Kg Beef Meat: US $20.10
1 kg Apples: US $3.33
1 Kg Bananas: US $2.31
1 Kg Oranges: US $2.88
1 Kg Tomatoes: US $2.95
1 Kg Potatoes: US $2.43
1 Kg Onions: US $2.38

Other Expenditures:

Monthly utility bills (electricity, water, heating) : US $192.18
Monthly internet bill: US $26. 18
Fitness club membership fee of one person: US $78.41
Cinema ticket 1 seat: US $12.74

Study In Hong Kong Questions

What are the top five reasons to study in Hongkong?

World class institution.
More research opportunities.
Low unemployment.
Easy public transportation.
Lowest crime rate in the world.

What is the General undergrad/postgrad admission requirements for study abroad in Hongkong?

Undergraduate	Postgraduate
FA/Fsc or A levels certificate	FA/Fsc or A levels certificate
Chinese language or English language proficiency according to your selected program.	Undergraduate degree for graduate admission and Graduate degree in an appropriate subject for postgraduate admission
Photocopy of your passport or id card	Chinese language or English language proficiency according to your selected program.
—-	Statement of purpose
—-	references
—-	Photocopy of your passport or id card

What are the general visa requirements for Hongkong study visa?

Admission confirmation letter from university and a letter of acceptance to the specific course.
Correctly completed application form.
Certificate of recent academic record.
Fee payment proof of university (min 1 semester).
Pictures and other proof of identity.
Proof of financial condition, bank statements.
Evidence of your accommodation agreement In Hongkong

What are annual admission intakes for study in HongKong?

Admission application opens on September 1^st and ends on November 23^rd. you have to provide all the necessary documents within these dates.

Can I get a scholarship to study in Hongkong?

Yes, many scholarships are offered by the Hongkong government some of them are:

The Hongkong special administrative region government scholarship.
The self-financing post-secondary education fund.
The Hongkong PHD fellowship scheme.

Is study in Hongkong expensive?

The cost of study expense totally depends upon where you choose to study. On average, you should expect to pay between HDK 90,000 to HDK 265,000/ year as an international student.

What are typical accommodation options while studying in Hongkong?

International students studying in Hongkong have the choice of either on-campus or off-campus accommodation. To determine which accommodation is best for you, it is recommended that you contact the residence or student affairs office of your institution directly.

Can a student do a part time job in Hongkong while studying?

No, non-local students are not allowed to do any paid or unpaid employment.

Can I beer my living and education in Hongkong with a part time job?

No, non-local students are not allowed to do any paid or unpaid employment.

How long I can stay in Hongkong?

Well, it depends upon your period of study, where as maximum period of stay in Hongkong is 6 years.

How study in Hongkong will affect my future career path?

In Hongkong, there are plenty of opportunities. You can gain valuable experience in the job market if you choose to stay in the city for work after graduating.

Can an International student get a PR after completion of higher education in Hongkong?

Those who have been living in Hongkong for continuously 7 years are able to apply for PR