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Hong Kong Applications

Personal Statements and References for Hong Kong

What HKU and CUHK ask for: one personal statement at HKU, and references for postgraduate study at CUHK.

Example statement planner

Example
Personal statementWhy this subject, and why you
ReferenceConfidential letters from people who know your work

A simple structure for your statement

1

Why this subject

2

What you have done in it

3

Why this programme and university

4

Your goals

Example
What Hong Kong Universities Ask For

Universities look at your marks and other papers, such as your personal statement, references and interview.

Statement of Purpose (SOP)
  • HKU bachelor's: one personal statement for all choices.
  • Uploaded after you pay the application fee.
  • Some programmes ask for extra materials.
Letter of Recommendation (LOR)
  • HKU bachelor's: optional references from your counsellor or referees.
  • CUHK postgraduate: two references, or three for research doctorates.
  • Referees are emailed and send confidential references.

How They Use Them

Whole application

HKU looks at your marks, interview, personal statement, references and other documents.

Writing Your Personal Statement

Your statement shows who you are beyond your marks. Keep it clear, true and specific.

Essential Components of a Strong SOP

1

Why this subject

Explain what draws you to the subject, with a real example from your studies or projects.

Key Points to Include:
  • Use a specific example.
2

What you have done

Describe projects, results, activities or work linked to the subject.

Key Points to Include:
  • HKU also looks at non-academic achievements for scholarships.
3

Why this programme

Say what in this programme fits your plans.

Key Points to Include:
  • One HKU statement covers up to 3 choices, so keep it about your subject area.

Format

Length & Format

  • Check each programme for any length rule.

Writing Style

  • Use plain, clear English.
  • Tell the truth. HKU can cancel your place if you give false documents.
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References

A reference tells the university about your work. It comes from someone who taught or supervised you.

Asking Referees

Asking for Recommendations

  1. 1
    Ask before you name them

    HKU asks you to speak to referees before you submit.

  2. 2
    Give them the date

    For HKU's first round, ask them to finish by 1 December 2026.

Get Expert Guidance on LORs
Mistakes to Avoid

Simple slips that weaken an application.

SOP Mistakes to Avoid

Writing for one programme only at HKU

One statement goes to all your HKU choices.

Warning Signs:
  • Naming only one programme.
Better Approach:

Focus on your subject area and goals.

LOR Mistakes to Avoid

Not telling your referees

Referees get an email from the university after you submit.

Timeline Advisory:

Tell them first, and share the deadline.

Common Questions

Short answers about statements and references for Hong Kong universities.

Need advice on your own statement or referees? Talk to us.

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