Hong Kong is center of academic excellence and research in Asia second to Singapore, it has earned global ranking of being the 12th best city for international students by QS. Being the financial and business hub of Asia and having proximity to China, Hong Kong offers broad career opportunities to international students post graduation. The visa policies are flexible and accommodating in Hong Kong for fresh graduates from universities of Hong Kong and for graduates from other countries. The east meets west urbanized culture of Hong Kong, bustling metropolis, historical roots, fast paced lifestyle and developed economy ensure an adventurous and productive study abroad experience. In spite of worldwide acclamation and prestigious reputation of higher education institutions of Hong Kong the tuition fee is quite affordable.
Admission Requirements In Hong Kong Universities
Universities in Hong Kong follow rigorous selection process which is merit based. The applicants are assessed through entry tests, interviews, academic records and language tests. The specific requirements of admission may vary from university to university and also according to the study programme. The admission requirements are different at each academic level such as under gradate and 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), the previous degrees must be passed in high grades, subject wise minimum grades would be according to your chosen study programme, English language proficiency test certificate such as IELTS, TOEFL and interview will be taken over Skype.
Admission Requirements for Post Graduate Programs:
Bachelors honors degree with good grades and at least 30 credit hours earned. Entrance examination and interview requirements depends on your chosen university in Hong Kong, English language proficiency test certificate and research proposal if taking admission in research course and CV, previous research experience for PhD applicants.
Hong Kong Student Visa Requirements
The university in Hong Kong you applied admission at will send you letter of acceptance or offer letter if you meet their academic eligibility. The acceptance letter is the most important document for student visa of Hong Kong; the other procedure will start after getting acceptance letter. You will visit the Embassy of Hong Kong and attain the information for visa and documents list required to be submit along with visa application. The required documents for student visa for Hong Kong include:
- 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 candidate if he/she had lived in Hong Kong for continuous 7 years on legal documents and had met requirements of responsible citizen. The graduates who have passed their under graduate or post graduate degree successfully from an accredited institution of Hong Kong can get 12 months visa under the Immigration Arrangements for Non-local Graduates (IANG) program. If the graduates apply for the Immigration Arrangements for Non-local Graduates (IANG) program within six months of their graduation, they don’t need to show an employment offer, but if the graduates apply for IANG visa after six months of their graduation they need to sow employment offer. The visa will be issued for 12 months initially which can be extended for 1 year first, then 2 more years in second extension and then 3 years in third extension. After residing in Hong Kong for seven years, the candidates become eligible to apply for PR visa of Hong Kong. Through General Employment Policy (GEP) program the graduates belonging from other countries can also apply for 1 years work visa of Hong Kong if they have employment contract from Hong Kong based organization.
Comparison Of Expenses In Hong Kong
The study expenses in Hong Kong are although affordable, but it is one of the most expensive cities to live in the world. The accommodation rents, food and utility bills are much higher in Hong Kong than UK, USA and Australia. As per the estimation, a student needs to spend almost HK$45,000 in duration of 12 months while living in Hong Kong excluding the study expenses. Majority of Hong Kong’s population uses public transport for their day to day travelling, the accommodation is in high size buildings rather than large houses, and the food has fusion of many cuisines as there are diverse cultures habituated in Hong Kong.
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
Hong Kong does not allow international students to work part time off campus. The only part time job allowed to international students in Hong Kong is university offered or organized internships and traineeship that are curriculum related and degree programme related. An international student enrolled in full time study programme of at least one year duration at an accredited university of Hong Kong is allowed to do internship at campus. The internship must be of 6 months duration. It can be paid or not paid there is no restriction about. During summer holidays, the students can do summer jobs that must also be on campus, they are allowed to do summer jobs 20 hours a week and salary is up to their hosting university in Hong Kong. The summer jobs are allowed only from June 1 to August 31.
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 journey of self exploration, learning and nurturing oneself for successful career. Hong Kong has been ranked at 3rd position by Global Financial Centers Index for being a world’s leading financial center. The outstanding and excelling research network and teaching methodologies being practiced by higher education institutions of Hong Kong have elevated their position in world rankings and their credibility among academic experts, it is no wonder three of Hong Kong’s universities are ranked among world’s top 50 best universities and the degrees attained from Hong Kong are globally recognized. The learner and adventurer in you will suffice the urge of experiencing diversity, ancient history, fusion of eastern and western culture and all this during the course of attaining best quality education. The manifold qualities of Hong Kong as a study abroad destination are acknowledged globally by academics and students. Why study in Hong Kong is reasoned for international students in this section:
Hong Kong is an Education Hub
The ulterior purpose of studying in abroad is gaining the best possible quality of education and knowledge and skill enhancement. Hong Kong has achieved excellence in higher education sector through adopting strong research grid, inclusive curriculum design, quality assurance, international collaborations and teaching methodologies which are focused on broaden the outlook of student and enhancing their cognitive capabilities.The top ranked universities of 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
It’s natural and logical for a student to know post graduation opportunities in the country they wish to study in abroad. With determination to make Hong Kong a favorite study abroad destination, The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government has relaxed entry visa restrictions and offers one year visa extension to international students as they complete their degrees for job search.
Affordable Tuition Fee
The tuition fee of universities in Hong Kong will be different for each course although, but they are low cost. For example on average a full time post graduate study programme in Hong Kong will cost US$140,000 to $150,000 per year which is quite affordable if you compare it with US and UK. There are state run and private organization’s funded scholarship programme offered to international students to encourage enrollments of foreign students in Hong Kong. The scholarships are offered on merit, research ability, academic excellence and leadership qualities.
Multicultural Environment
Mainly because Hong Kong has been under reign of British Rule for 156 years, it has organically adopted the culture and living standards of west. But the ancient history, architecture, culture and Chinese roots are still intact in Hong Kong which is interesting fusion to experience. Hong Kong’s aptly organized and well spread transportation system, Disney land, Tall skyscrapers and tai chi and soccer co-exist in this small country. The modern and fast paced life style will be initially challenging and difficult to match but it will all worth and fruitful by the end of your studying abroad in Hong Kong journey.
The universities in Hong Kong have maintained a high quality of education through rigorous process of admissions, international standard curriculum design, highly qualified staff and regular improvement in academic structure of study programmes. Hong Kong’s education system is well organized and administrated ensuring the standards are never compromised and match up high profile international universities. Besides, top class education attainment, you will be exposed to career opportunities as Hong Kong is center of multinational companies and start ups. If you get to do internships and traineeships through your university’s organized study programmes, it will open multitude of career opportunities for you all around the globe. The admission procedure in universities of Hong Kong are explained in the following guide:
Choosing the Most Suitable Study Programme
The prime focus while choosing a study programme must be your passion and career goal. Choose that set of subjects and majors which interest you the most and about which you are passionate and the success part will eventually follow. In process of comparing which study programme can be best for you in future consider following factors before finalizing:
- 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 home to many worlds’ high ranking institutions which own global recognition and prestige. The Universities of Hong Kong have set their main priority to be high quality of education and enhancement of skills. Moreover, the tuition fee is considerably packaged for non local students to ensure more enrollments. So about quality of education in Hong Kong you don’t need to be concerned about, although you must consider following factors to pick one university to pursue your study programme 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 requirements for admissions in universities of Hong Kong will mainly be dependent on the study programme you choose and the university you choose. For every study programme there will be subject wise grade requirements which will be demonstrated to you in details while you submit your application for admission. The general academic requirements including minimum grades for under graduate and post graduate courses are as follows:
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:
The candidates applying from non English speaking countries are required to prove their proficiency in English language for admissions in English taught degree programme. Hong Kong’s Universities accept IELTS, TOEFL, Cambridge English Language Assessment tests for language requirements. The minimum grades required at each of English language proficiency test 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 $450)
- The required documents be verified and attested by related authorities. (To ensure the authenticity).
- Make sure to provide valid information only.
Admission Deadlines
The admission deadlines of universities of Hong Kong vary from one other. If you are planning to get enrolled in a fall semester start its preparation from spring and arrange the perquisites. The admissions intakes in universities of Hong Kong start usually in January or May.
The economically developed city of Hong Kong is business hub of Asia with strong networking around the globe. The people of Hong Kong have highest IQ levels in the world and one of the highest life expectancy. The quality of life and sought after educational institutes tempt international students to study abroad in Hong Kong. If you are planning to study in Hong Kong, the below guide will help you in estimating the study and living expenses there as an international student.
Study Expenses in Hong Kong for Students
The tuition fee is higher for non local students than local students in universities of Hong Kong. The tuition fee varies from institution to institution and also according to the study programme. Besides tuition fee, there are other expenses such as registration fee, application fee, annual subscription fee and a sum of money will be submitted by non local students as “caution money” which will be deposited as you graduate. The government of Hong Kong is running several scholarship programmes to fund living and study expenses of local and non local students.
Tuition fee for Undergraduate Programs
On average the tuition fee for under graduate program will be around HKD 140,000 to HKD 170,000 per annum.
Tuition fee for post graduate (Masters) programs
On average the tuition fee for post graduate programme will be around HKD 70,000- 150,000 per year.
- Arts courses: From HKD75, 000 to HKD 90,000 (US$ 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
On average the tuition fee for post graduate PhD programme will be around HKD $4500,000 per year.
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
Living expenses in Hong Kong city are higher than expected. Since it is a global business center and top tourist destination, the meals, accommodation and travelling expenditure are quite high for a student. As per the estimation, on average HK$45,000 amount would be required by a student for his living expenses in a 12 months duration excluding study expenses. But a major percentage of expenses can be cut down if you manage your budget with restraint and consideration.
Accommodation:
The administrations of universities give first priority to international student for on campus residence than the local students. You will need to provide proof of accommodation for your student visa for Hong Kong requirements. The reason behind high rents is also the dense population in the city of Hong Kong. The rents of private renting or off campus apartments will mainly depend on the location and facilities offered; generally the utility bills will not be included in off campus accommodation rent whereas in on campus residence the utility bills are included in the rent. So basically the university provided residence will be certainly the most affordable option in Hong Kong, but there are other accommodation options as well.
- 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 transportation facility is the one of the best organized, well spread, comfortable and punctual. About 90% of Hong Kong’s population uses public transportation for their daily travel, which is a big achievement in itself and speaks for its quality and efficiency.
- (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 1st and ends on November 23rd. 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?
In Hongkong international students have an option of both on campus accommodation as well as off campus accommodation. You are advised to contact the residence office or student affair office of your institution directly to explore the accommodation option for you.
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?
There are many opportunities in Hongkong. You can easily get valuable work experience if you decide to stay In Hongkong for work after higher education.
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.