Hong Kong incorporated Western capitalism with traditional Chinese spiritualist values in its British colonial history. Hong Kong is an ultra-modern cosmopolitan city, from finance to Feng Shui, and a global hub for trade, trade, and logistics. Hong Kong is a popular destination for students considering studying Masters abroad, combined with some of the best universities in both Asia and the world.
We have prepared a detailed advice guide on all you need to know about Hong Kong postgraduate studies
Postgraduate opportunities in HongKong
Hong Kong’s Masters degrees offer the opportunity to participate in forward-thinking research in business, technology and the arts with more skyscrapers than any other city. It’s no wonder that around 34,000 international students are hosting universities in Hong Kong, and several institutions appear near the top of different ranking systems.
Here are a few reasons to consider studying a Master’s degree in Hong Kong:
Global reputation–Three Hong Kong universities are among the top 100 in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings, an impressive record for a city-state of just over 7 million!
Unique culture–Hong Kong is an incredibly cosmopolitan place for a diverse urban experience that blends Western and Eastern influences.
English is an official language–at most universities, English is the language of instruction, making Hong Kong an attractive prospect for graduates from all over the world.
Funding opportunities–Hong Kong’s international students have several funding opportunities including scholarship programmes
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| Number of universities | 20 |
| Oldest university | University of Hong Kong |
| International students | 34349 |
| Course length | 1 to 2 years |
| Average fees | HKD $90000 |
| Academic year | September to August |
About Hong Kong universities
The state finances nine public universities in Hong Kong, eight of which are run by UGC. Hong Kong’s public universities include some of the highly regarded institutions in the world. Hong Kong also has 11 private universities.
Since the UGC funding does not include these institutions, they are self-funded. As you can see in the table below, Hong Kong university rankings are strongly represented across all three major global league rankings.
The top 50 of the QS league features a clutch of institutions, while most of the seven universities featured are among the top 300. Not a bad record, considering Hong Kong’s relatively small size
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Course types in Hong Kong
Hong Kong Masters degrees can be taught or research-based programs can be taught. Taught Masters will have a similar structure to combine undergraduate degrees, lectures, seminars, group and individual courses.
Meanwhile, research-based Masters are an excellent preparation for doctoral work. Evaluation for both types of qualification will be based on written examinations and projects as well as a lengthy thesis. You may also need to give your dissertation an oral presentation.
MBAs are another popular Hong Kong qualification with the status of the territory as a global trading hub.
Masters fees and funding in Hong Kong
Tuition and living fees can be quite high in Hong Kong. There are, however, a number of funding opportunities to apply for this can help you cover some of the Master’s degree costs.
Application fees for Masters in Hong Kong
A application fee for Masters in Hong Kong normally ranges from $180-500 HKD ($ 25-65 USD). After completing your online application via the university website, this fee is payable. Local students can often be expected to pay a significantly higher rate of tuition fees for Masters in Hong Kong
Annual tuition fees for international students are ranging from $ 90,000 to $ 265,000 (USD $ 11,500 – 34,000) depending on university and program.
Other fees
Universities in Hong Kong are commonly charging a caution fee of about HKD $300 (USD $40) to students upon registration. Charges against this deposit will be charged if at the end of your study there are any unpaid claims against you, such as outstanding library charges.
If your student account has no outstanding charges, the caution fee will be fully refunded. It is also normal to charge a graduation fee of approximately HKD $300 (USD $40) before you receive your degree.
However, if you are reimbursed for your cautionary fee, the graduation fee may be covered by your refund transfer.
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Scholarships for masters in Hong Kong
Although Hong Kong’s tuition cost is high, there are fortunately many scholarships for international students available. Application processes are similar to UK and you should check for available scholarships on individual university websites.
Cost of living for students in Hong Kong
Living costs in Hong Kong are generally much higher than in other parts of Asia, but international students can still enjoy a good living standard without paying a bill too high. You can choose to live in university or private accommodation while studying in Hong Kong. Hong Kong university accommodation is usually cheaper, more modern and more convenient than private accommodation. You can expect to pay HKD $5,000-20,000 (USD $640-2,555) per campus semester, while private accommodation may cost you a similar amount per month.
Living costs can be similar to London or New York, as can be expected with a city that is an economic trade hub. The city, however, has a cheap system of public transport and clothing stores selling items at a lower price. You should budget for living expenses around HKD $50,000 (USD $6,385) per year as a rough guide.
Applying for masters in Hong Kong
You will need a corresponding undergraduate degree to apply for a Masters degree in Hong Kong. Universities are commonly expected to have an average grade of undergraduate B or 3.0 GPA (grade point average).
Some specific programs may need higher grades, however. For most degrees in Hong Kong, the application process takes place online. You will be able to complete the application form once you have registered for an application account on the website of your selected university.
Supporting documents
To support your application for a Masters programme, you may need to provide the following documents:
- Two to five referees with written reports
- Proof of undergraduate degree certificates and transcripts
Language requirements in Hong Kong
Hong Kong Masters courses are taught in English as well as Cantonese, the two official languages of the city. If English is not your first language and you want to study an English-language Hong Kong Masters degree, you may need to submit a language test score.
Hong Kong universities will normally accept either the IELTS (International Language Testing System) or the TOEFL (Foreign Language Testing System).
Typically, minimum score requirements will be as follows:
An IELTS score of 6.0 or better A TOEFL score of 550 (paper-based) or 79 (computer-based)
If you are interested in learning a local language while in Hong Kong, most universities offer beginner-level courses in both Cantonese and Putonghua. Check for more information with your chosen university.
Masters student visa in Hong Kong
Once accepted by a university in Hong Kong, you must apply for a student visa / entry permit as an international student. Visa applications and fees are required to have a student visa for international students who wish to study in Hong Kong. The ID995 A and B forms will need to be completed and signed.
For more information, take a look at the website of the immigration department of the Hong Kong government. You will need a local sponsor in addition to the visa. Normally, your university will be able to provide or arrange this service for you.
Supporting visa documents
The Immigration Department will usually require the following supporting documents to be submitted to support your visa application:
- ID995 A form, completed and signed
- ID995 B form, completed by university representative
- Photocopy of passport
- Travel itinerary with proof of flights
- Recent passport photo
- Proof of admission letter from an education institution in Hong Kong
- Evidence of financial support such as bank statements or proof of scholarship funds
- Evidence of your accommodation arrangement in Hong Kong
It can take up to six weeks to process a visa, so make sure you leave enough time to receive yours before you travel. You will also need to renew your visa each year you study.
Conclusion
I hope this article was informative and helpful to you. Get ready and apply for your post graduate degree and enjoy a full fledged career in Hong Kong