Study in Hong Kong SAR: making an application

The application process for Hong Kong SAR universities can begin a year or more before you arrive on campus. This guide will take you through the whole process step by step.

1. Eligibility 

Make sure that you have everything you need academically for the programme you hope to enter. Different courses and universities have different requirements, so be sure you’ve done your research!  You can find out more in our ‘Study in Hong Kong SAR: Preparing to apply’ guide.

2. Apply

There is no centralised application for foreign students in Hong Kong SAR, though local students use a system called JUPAS. 

Applications are generally due in November of the year before you begin studying, and are sometimes evaluated on a rolling basis, so make sure you get your application in early if that’s the case at your university of choice.  

You can apply for as many universities in Hong Kong SAR as you like, but be aware that you will have to pay an application fee for each one. The fees differ between universities: as an example, the City University of Hong Kong charges 450 HKD.

Specific requirements for different programmes or departments can vary, so make sure you’ve looked into what your specific university is asking for. In general, however, applications will include: 

• A transcript of your grades or projected grades
• Proof of language proficiency
• A Personal Statement
• A reference from a teacher or your school principal

One thing to be aware of is that once you’ve decided to accept an offer, the deposit to confirm your place on the course can be quite high. Don’t worry, though - the money you pay up front will eventually be taken out of your tuition fees. 

3. Healthcare 

Healthcare in Hong Kong SAR isn’t free, so you’ll need to get health insurance to cover your time as a student. In fact, some universities require students to have it. Some universities also offer plans for international students, but these plans often only provide very basic coverage and may not be suitable for your needs. 

There are quite a few private companies that offer health plans especially designed for foreigners living and studying in Hong Kong SAR. Your best bet is to do your research carefully, as what you’ll need out of a healthcare plan and what it will cost varies a lot based on your own needs in terms of things like recurring appointments, medications, evacuation coverage, and any existing health conditions you’ll need care for while studying. 

4. Student visa 

Once you’ve accepted an offer from a university, you can apply for your student visa. These can take at least six weeks to process, so you’ll want to begin right away.

To make the application, you’ll need: 

• A letter of acceptance from your university
• Your passport
• A recent photo of yourself
• Bank statements or other proof of your ability to support yourself financially

If you're not yet 18 years old, you’ll need to provide additional information, including proof that you have arranged for accommodation, and authorisation from your parents or guardians that your sponsor (usually your university) or a local friend or family member can act as your legal guardian.