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Application Guide

Getting Into a Hong Kong University

Students from India and Pakistan apply straight to each Hong Kong university. You do not use JUPAS (the system for Hong Kong school students). For September 2027 entry, early rounds close from 12 to 25 November 2026.

Hong Kong SAR University Applications

Language Proficiency
At the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), bachelor's: IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL iBT 80. Master's: IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL iBT 79. IELTS and TOEFL iBT are English tests.
Documents
Class 12 results (India) or Higher Secondary School Certificate (HSSC) results (Pakistan)

Students from outside Hong Kong apply directly to each university.

Admissions Journey

Your Path to a Hong Kong University

Six steps from choosing a programme to getting your visa.

1

Choose programmes

Pick universities and programmes that fit your subjects and goals.

2

Check entry rules

Check the school results, subjects and English level each programme asks for.

3

Prepare papers

Your marks sheet (transcript), exam certificates, English test result, a short essay about you (personal statement) and letters from teachers (references).

4

Apply online

Apply on each university's site and pay its fee.

5

Interviews and offers

The university may call you for an interview. HKU sends first-round offers from December 2026.

6

Accept and get your visa

Accept your offer, pay the deposit, then apply for your student visa.

Key Application Deadlines

September 2027 intake (bachelor's)
  • CUHK early round, which CUHK calls the advance offer round: 12 November 2026.
  • The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) early round: 17 November 2026.
  • HKU first round: 25 November 2026, noon Hong Kong time. HKUST early round, which HKUST calls the priority round: 25 November 2026.
  • CUHK regular round: 7 January 2027.
Master's and PhD
  • Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS), money for PhD students: first application by 1 December 2026, noon Hong Kong time.
  • Many CUHK research programmes: 1 December 2026.
  • Master's with classes (taught master's): each programme sets its own rounds.

Dates are for September 2027 entry.

Key Components

Comprehensive Admissions Guide

Explore every aspect of the Hong Kong SAR university application process through our detailed guides on eligibility, documents, and submission procedures.

Eligibility
Who can apply.

Key Information

Minimums differ by university and programme.
Master's: a recognised bachelor's degree.
2 key points
Documents
What to upload.

Key Information

For a master's: official transcripts and a page that explains how your marks are graded.
After you get an offer, the university asks to see your original papers.
2 key points
Deadlines
Key dates for 2027 entry.

Key Information

PolyU later deadline: 11 February 2027.
HKPFS (money for PhD students): 1 December 2026.
2 key points
English Tests
English rules.

Key Information

India only: 80% in Class 12 English from an Indian central or state board can count as proof of English at CUHK.
IELTS Online is not accepted at CUHK.
2 key points
Statement and References
Personal statement and reference letters.

Key Information

HKU: one statement for all choices.
CUHK research doctorate: three letters from referees.
2 key points
How to Apply
Step by step.

Key Information

Application fee: HKD 500 to 780 for each university.
At HKU you can pick up to 3 programmes in one application.
2 key points
Application Tips

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Even qualified applicants can face rejection due to application errors. Be aware of these common mistakes to increase your chances.

Missing the first round

Later applications are read as they arrive, until all places are full.

Trusting agents who promise easy entry

Some agents say you can get into the University of Hong Kong (HKU) with lower marks. This is not true.

Not checking the minimum

Meeting the minimum does not guarantee a place.

Not typing in your results

HKU wants you to type in every mark yourself. The files you upload are only used to check what you typed.

Applying twice

CUHK rejects applications if you send more than one for 2027 entry.

Forgetting fees

You pay a fee for each application.

Complete Guide to Hong Kong SAR

Explore all aspects of studying in Hong Kong SAR with our comprehensive guides

Admissions - Detailed Guides

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