Reasons to Study in Hong Kong: Best Universities, Fees, Scholarships

Hong Kong is a magnetic destination for students globally, earning the 21st Best Student City in the QS Rankings 2024. Beyond academic pursuits, the fast-paced metropolis offers an exhilarating environment where opportunities for study, work, and life converge seamlessly. Explore the reasons to study in Hong Kong and how it has become a top choice for those seeking higher education and an immersive experience in a truly global city.

Key Highlights

Hong Kong stands out as a global city where East meets West, renowned for its top-notch education, economic prominence, and a rich blend of cultures. Here are key highlights for those considering studying in Hong Kong:

Reasons to Study in Hong Kong

Let's explore the compelling reasons that set Hong Kong apart as a prime destination for higher education. 

• Hong Kong's cultural diversity is reflected in its population, with over 92% of the residents being of Chinese descent and the remaining 8% representing various nationalities, creating a truly multicultural environment.
• Hong Kong is the gateway to China, with the Hong Kong Tourism Board emphasizing its ancient culture and stunning natural beauty. The city's international airport, efficient rail services, and extensive ferry networks make travel to China easily accessible.
• With its status as an international financial center and a premier trading hub, Hong Kong provides unparalleled career opportunities. Studying here not only imparts knowledge but also opens doors for building a network crucial for those planning to kick-start their careers in China.
• Hong Kong universities consistently rank high globally, with institutions such as The University of Hong Kong (HKU) and The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) making significant contributions to research and innovation on a global scale.
• Embrace the bilingual environment where English is the language of instruction in academic settings, and Cantonese is the essence of daily life. 

Best Universities in Hong Kong

Renowned for their academic excellence, these best Hong Kong universities offer a diverse range of programs for students across the world. 

Besides these, the Education University of Hong Kong (EdUHK), ranked 21st in the QS WUR Ranking By Subject, offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and professional development programs in teacher education, social sciences, and the humanities. 

Cost of Studying in Hong Kong

Investing in a top-tier education in Hong Kong is a valuable endeavor, offering a transformative academic journey. However, students must consider the associated expenses conscientiously. 

• For local undergraduate students, the annual tuition fee is HKD 42,100, providing access to quality education. 
• Non-local undergraduate students, on the other hand, will incur a tuition fee of HKD 145,000 per year. 
• For the average on-campus living cost in Hong Kong, the accommodation cost for a 2-person room in the hostel is approximately HKD 19,270 for nine months. 
• Off-campus renting an apartment in the city center can range from HKD 12,000 for a one-bedroom to HKD 25,000 for a three-bedroom. 
• Outside the city center, costs are slightly lower, with a one-bedroom averaging around HKD 9,000 and a three-bedroom ranging from HKD 16,000 to HKD 35,000.  
• The estimated monthly living costs, excluding rent, hover around HKD 31,515 for a family of four. 
• A single person can anticipate spending HKD 8,895.5. 
• For other living expenses, such as food, leisure, transportation, and personal items, you should budget HKD 30,000 to HKD 50,00 per year.

Scholarships to Study in Hong Kong

Undertaking a higher education journey in Hong Kong not only promises academic excellence but also unveils a landscape rich with diverse scholarship opportunities. These Hong Kong scholarships are tailored to recognize and support exceptional students. 

Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government Scholarship:

• Benefits: HKD 80,000 per year (approx. USD10,300) for outstanding local and non-local students in UGC-funded universities, the Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, and the Vocational Training Council.

Self-financing Post-secondary Education Fund:

• Benefits: HKD 80,000 per year (approx. USD 10,300) for outstanding local and non-local students pursuing full-time locally-accredited self-financing sub-degree or bachelor’s degree programs.

Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme:

• Benefits: HKD 319,200 stipend (approx. USD 40,900) and a research-related travel allowance of HKD 13,300 (approx. USD 1,700) per year for each awardee for three years.

Belt and Road Scholarship (Designated Countries):

• Benefits: Full tuition fee coverage for outstanding students from Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Thailand, and Mongolia for first-year, full-time, publicly-funded undergraduate studies in Hong Kong.

Belt and Road Scholarship (Research Postgraduate):

• Benefits: Annual scholarships for students from Belt and Road countries to pursue first-year full-time, publicly-funded research postgraduate programs in Hong Kong.

Conclusion

Choosing Hong Kong for higher education means embracing a holistic experience that intertwines academic excellence, cultural diversity, and unparalleled career opportunities. It is an investment in a future where graduates are provided with knowledge and are part of a global community, ready to steer the complexities of the interconnected world.

Reda More:

University of Hong Kong Acceptance Rate