Guide for IB students considering higher education in Hong Kong SAR This guide provides a brief introduction to the Hong Kong higher education system and its application process, as well as information specifically relevant to IB students. Context In 2012, undergraduate programmes at public universities moved from a three-year specialized focus One of the world’s most competitive cities, the Hong Kong system, similar to that of the UK, to a four-year holistic, Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) is home to some of student-oriented approach more aligned with the US Asia’s, and indeed the world’s, finest universities.1 It is also model.3 ranked in the top 10 cities for international students.2 Recently, the government of Hong Kong also introduced Education in Hong Kong is largely modelled on the UK additional benefits to international students: the quota system, but undergraduate programmes are typical- for non-local students at publicly funded institutions ly a mix of British and American systems. Education is increased to 20%; scholarships for international students overseen by the Education Bureau (EDB), who report to were strengthened (up to HK$80,000); and visa and em- the government of Hong Kong rather than the Chinese ployment restrictions were relaxed. Ministry of Education. Academic culture Prior to the 1960s, higher education in Hong Kong was mainly for the elite, with very few students admitted to While the education system may be more Western in or- only a single university. Through the 1980s and into the ganization, academic attitudes are heavily influenced by new millennium, education underwent significant expan- traditional Chinese culture. There is a strong value placed sion and development. on examinations, hard work and meritocracy. 1http://www.edb.gov.hk/en/edu-system/postsecondary/index.html 2http://www.topuniversities.com/best-student-cities 3http://www.ncee.org/programs-affiliates/center-on-international-education-benchmarking/ top-performing-countries/hong-kong-overview/ Students are encouraged to understand the larger • Non-local courses: There are some 1,100 courses process of learning; to manage and supplement their offered by foreign providers in Hong Kong. academic progress independently; and to develop Degree types practical skills by focusing on the “real-world” application of what is taught. There are multiple post-secondary study pathways available in the region, including sub-degree Along with the change to the four-year model, Hong programmes, associates, bachelor’s and graduate Kong universities have enhanced interdisciplinary studies, degrees. Many of these tracks have multiple entry and service learning and exchange programmes to put a exit points. Upon completion of secondary school, greater emphasis on whole-person development, global students can enroll directly on an undergraduate degree citizenship and international outlook.4 course or pursue another degree type that may allow Institution types them to move into an undergraduate programme later. There are about 20 degree-granting higher education Undergraduate degrees institutions in Hong Kong, which offer a wide array of Bachelor’s degrees are now typically four years in length programmes. Eight of these institutions are publicly fund- for full-time students. Each university offers a range of ed universities. In addition, about another 20 institutions study programmes across general study areas divided offer a variety of locally accredited sub-degree pro- into faculties, each with a unique set of major, minor, grammes. Courses, programmes, entry requirements and credit and entry requirements. This model allows fees vary considerably, and students are strongly advised students to complete general studies and nominate one to confirm details directly with the intended institution. or more “major”, or specialization, within their study area. Higher education institutions in Hong Kong include the In addition to their major(s), students usually select a following. “minor”—a secondary specialization with less credit • Publicly funded universities: The eight public requirements than the major. Double-degree universities funded by the University Grants programmes are also possible at some institutions. Committee (UGC) each offer associates, bachelors, Course load options can be somewhat flexible, masters and doctoral degrees, and some provide allowing students to take more or less courses in a sub-degree programmes. Most programmes are given semester (within limits) as long as they meet taught in English. the overall requirements by the end of the programme. • Vocational Training Council (VTC) institutions: Associate and other degrees Member institutions offer vocational and Students who do not wish to pursue an undergradu- undergraduate technical programmes focusing ate degree, or do not gain entry to a bachelor’s degree on applied skills in general fields such as arts and programme, may pursue an associate degree or a higher sciences. diploma. These courses often articulate with a degree • Self-financing programmes: Eleven self-financing course later on. It is also sometimes possible to gain a institutions provide both sub-degree and degree- course transfer from a successfully completed higher level programmes. The government has recently diploma or associate degree into an overseas degree been developing this sector, including a HK$3.5 programme with some credit transfer.5 billion education fund for scholarships and quality enhancement efforts. • Specialized institutions: There are a number of pub- lic and independent institutions that offer specialized instruction areas, such as the publicly funded Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts. 3http://www.hotcoursesabroad.com/study-in-hongkong/applying-to-university/ 5http://www.itseducation.asia/education-system.htm the-hong-kong-higher-education-systemsimplified/ Applying start date. Dates and deadlines vary between institutions, but applications are usually accepted from September to Hong Kong’s reputation as a competitive city certainly April for the following academic year. In most cases you holds true for its university admissions. The number of should be prepared to apply by the end of December. places available for undergraduate degrees is substantial- Some universities also have mid-year intake rounds. ly less than the number of students who meet the entry requirements for general admission. So, qualifying for a Fees programme may not necessarily lead to admittance. At While tuition fees for local students are relatively modest, a minimum, applicants are generally expected to have fees for international students can be higher. Fees vary completed a secondary education programme and between programmes, but international students can gained satisfactory results. expect to pay between HK$100,000–HK$150,000 per year Local students with the Hong Kong Diploma of Second- in undergraduate tuition. Some universities may charge ary Education (HKDSE) results apply to all publicly funded additional fees. universities through the Joint University Programmes The Hong Kong government does provide scholarships Admission System (JUPAS). However, local IB students to outstanding local and international students, and and international students apply through the Non-JUPAS/ financial assistance to qualified local students in need. International Admissions Schemes directly to a university through its website. Information for IB students Course selection Despite its competitive environment, Hong Kong is gen- erally very favourable towards IB students. The IB diploma It is very important that you research each separate sub- is recognized by all publicly funded universities and most ject you might study in detail. Although most universities self-financing institutions. They understand the qualifica- have general admissions requirements, there may be tion well, and most institutions have specific IB policies faculty-specific requirements as well. outlined on their websites. Admissions Both local and non-local IB students should apply Specific entrance requirements vary across institutions, directly to the individual institution(s) they are study level and subject area. However, broadly speak- interested in attending. ing, applicants are primarily considered based on the In general, Diploma Programme (DP) candidates will nature of their academic background and academic need to have been awarded the IB diploma as meeting achievements. Many faculties will include an admissions the minimum entry requirement. Owing to the compe- interview as part of the process. Most universities will tition for university places in Hong Kong, a total score require proof of proficiency in English language, as most above 30 points will likely be required to gain entry into programmes are taught in English. Some may also have an undergraduate degree programme at one of these in- additional language requirements. stitutions. In some cases, the bar may be set much higher. It is important for applicants to convey understanding Many institutions grant advanced standing to higher- of, and enthusiasm for, their field of study while outlining performing IB students. The exact number of transfer relevant academic achievements and skills. However, credits are determined by the individual university international applicants should be aware of the local cul- faculties after the candidate has been admitted. tural attitudes towards boasting or self-promotion.6 Timeline The Hong Kong academic year begins in September and runs until April or