HONG KONG · SHATIN
Chinese University of Hong Kong
public · Founded 1963 · Languages: en
In short
The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) is a research-intensive university established in 1963, offering a bilingual education and a wide range of programs. It is globally ranked and provides a vibrant learning environment in Shatin, Hong Kong.
Key facts
- Type
- Public
- Founded
- 1963
- Students
- 19,861
- International students
- 5,000
- Acceptance rate
- 25%
- Tuition (intl)
- €23–23k/yr
- Languages
- EN
- Location
- Shatin, Hong Kong
The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) is a leading collegiate university established in 1963. It aims to blend Chinese and Western traditions, offering a bilingual education to a diverse international student body. CUHK is a research-intensive institution dedicated to academic excellence. Located in Hong Kong, CUHK provides a vibrant learning environment with extensive facilities and resources, fostering knowledge exchange and impactful projects. The university is globally connected, with a wide alumni network providing opportunities worldwide. CUHK offers a broad range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across eight faculties, including Arts, Business Administration, Education, Engineering, Inter-Faculty, Law, Medicine, Science, and Social Science.
Why study here
- Access world-class education and research facilities.
- Benefit from a diverse and multicultural student body and faculty.
- Engage in impactful projects and interdisciplinary studies.
- Join an extensive global alumni network.
- Receive comprehensive financial support and scholarship opportunities.
Student life
CUHK offers a unique college system and hostel accommodation, providing a supportive living and learning environment. The campus is known for being the largest and greenest in Hong Kong, equipped with essential facilities for a well-rounded student experience. Students can participate in various activities, engage in co-operative education programs, and benefit from career preparation workshops, such as those focusing on cover letter writing and resume development.
Fees
InternationalThe annual tuition fee for non-local students in the 2026-27 academic year is HK$214,000. Any yearly fee adjustment for the 2026 cohort will be capped at 3%. Dual-degree undergraduate programs may have varying tuition fees. A caution fee of HK$450 is also required upon admission.
HomeThe annual tuition fee for local Hong Kong students is HK$47,000 for the 2026-27 academic year.
LivingInternational students should budget roughly HK$50,000-70,000 per year for living costs, including on-campus hostel or private accommodation, food, transport, and personal expenses. On-campus hostel places are subsidised and competitively allocated.
Non-local students are defined as those requiring a student visa/entry permit for Hong Kong, holding an IANG visa/entry permit, or holding a dependant visa/entry permit and were 18 or older when it was issued by the Director of Immigration.
Admissions
Bachelor's DegreeGraduated from a recognized university with a Bachelor's degree, normally with Second Class Honours or higher, or an average grade of 'B' or better in the undergraduate course of study.
Professional QualificationsCompleted a related course of study in a tertiary educational institute and obtained professional or similar qualifications equivalent to an honours degree in related fields.
Relevant BackgroundGraduated with a first degree in other fields and have a relevant background (e.g., undergraduate/postgraduate courses related to Information Engineering and/or work experience in Information Technology-related industries).
Recommendation LettersTwo confidential recommendation reports are required.
Identity DocumentA photocopy of Hong Kong Identity Card or other identity document (e.g., Passport).
Curriculum VitaeCV required.
Degree Certificate(s)Graduation Certificate/Diploma Certificate. For degrees from Mainland China, an Online Verification Report of Higher Education Qualification Certificate from CHESICC is required. Applicants not yet completed degree must provide a Certificate of Study.
Official TranscriptsOfficial Transcripts and Grading Scheme in sealed envelopes.
TOEFL (Paper-based)550
TOEFL (Internet-based/Home Edition)79
IELTS (Academic - Test Centre based/Online)6.5
GMAT (Verbal)Band 21
GMAT Focus Edition (Verbal)Band 78
Hong Kong Advanced Level Examination (AS Level)Pass in English
Hong Kong Higher Level ExaminationPass in English
CUHK Matriculation ExaminationPass in English
General Certificate of Education Examination (GCE) Advanced Level (A-Level)/Advanced Subsidiary Level (AS-Level)Pass in English
HKDSE (English)Level 4 or above
Rankings
U.S. News & World Report Best Global Universities Rankings 2025–2026#1 in Hong Kong
Times Higher Education Asia University Rankings 2026#10 in Asia
QS World University Rankings 2026#32 Worldwide
University scholarships
Hong Kong Future Talents Scholarship Scheme for Advanced Studies (FTSS)Not specified, provides scholarships for local students.
Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS)Up to HK$1.79 million (US$230,000)
Accreditation
A publicly funded university established by ordinance in Hong Kong; degrees are recognised internationally and quality-assured under the University Grants Committee (UGC) framework.
Programs
a selectionChinese University of Hong Kong · Hong Kong
Computational Data Science
The Computational Data Science (CDAS) programme is designed to equip students with the mathematical, technical, and analytical skills needed to lead data-driven decision-making. In today's world, analyzing and managing massive amounts of data is crucial across many fields, including science, finance, engineering, and medicine. This program focuses on the computational aspects of data science, providing a deep understanding of algorithms and data structures for handling large datasets. Students will learn how to manipulate, visualize, interpret, and gain insights from complex information. The curriculum offers a solid foundation in data structures, algorithms, high-performance computing, statistical modeling, and large-scale statistical inference. Students can specialize in one of four streams: Computational Data Science, Computational Physics, Computational Medicine, or Computational Social Science, allowing them to tailor their studies to their specific interests. The program aims to produce graduates who are skilled in machine learning, database management, and high-performance computing, with a strong statistical background, preparing them for a variety of roles in the rapidly growing field of data science.
Bachelor's
Level
€23k
Tuition
48 mo
Duration
Chinese University of Hong Kong · Hong Kong
CUHK – UoE Dual Degree Programme
This dual degree programme allows students to earn two bachelor's degrees: one from The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) and another from the University of Edinburgh (UoE), a leading UK institution. The first two years of study are based at CUHK, followed by two years at UoE. The programme offers specializations in areas such as pure mathematics, applied mathematics, theoretical physics, statistics, operational research, financial mathematics, and business analytics. Students will graduate with a BSc in Statistics from CUHK and a BSc in Mathematics and Statistics from UoE, or a BSc in Risk Management Science/Quantitative Finance and Risk Management Science from CUHK and a BSc in Mathematics and Business from UoE. The programme is designed for non-local students and provides an opportunity to study at two world-renowned universities.
Bachelor's
Level
€23k
Tuition
48 mo
Duration
Chinese University of Hong Kong · Hong Kong
CUHK Executive Programme in FinTech
This program is designed for executives, business leaders, and entrepreneurs who want to gain a comprehensive understanding of the latest FinTech developments and their application across various business sectors. It covers a wide range of financial technologies including blockchain, CBDC, cryptocurrency, AI, big data, and cloud computing. The program emphasizes practical application through real-life case studies shared by industry practitioners. Participants will be encouraged to think innovatively about leveraging FinTech for business development or collaborating effectively with R&D divisions. Guest speakers will share their industry insights through discussions and Q&A sessions. FinTech is rapidly transforming the financial industry and beyond, impacting business models, services, and systems. Senior executives need to understand these changes to make informed decisions and drive technological advancement within their organizations. This program aims to equip participants with the necessary knowledge and a platform to connect with academics, professionals, and entrepreneurs.
Certificate
Level
€2k
Tuition
—
Duration
Chinese University of Hong Kong · Hong Kong
Data Science and Policy Studies
The Bachelor of Social Science in Data Science and Policy Studies (DSPS) is an interdisciplinary program at CUHK that combines data science with public policy analysis. It aims to equip students with the skills to develop evidence-based solutions for societal challenges using data, technology, and critical thinking. This program is ideal for those who want to apply data science to real-world issues like inequality, sustainability, and urban development, and who wish to build strong technical skills in areas such as Python programming, machine learning, and AI.
Bachelor's
Level
€23k
Tuition
48 mo
Duration
Chinese University of Hong Kong · Hong Kong
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Laws
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Laws is the highest research degree offered in law at CUHK. It is designed for individuals aiming for careers in legal academia. PhD candidates are expected to produce a dissertation that makes a substantial and original contribution to legal scholarship, under the guidance of CUHK faculty members. Admission is highly competitive, with a limited number of places available annually.
PhD
Level
€5k
Tuition
36 mo
Duration
Chinese University of Hong Kong · Hong Kong
Doctor of Philosophy in Education
The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Education at the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) is a research-focused doctorate established in 1990. It aims to cultivate educational researchers and professionals for leadership roles in academic institutions, government bodies, and educational organizations in Hong Kong and mainland China. The program emphasizes conceptual originality, academic rigor, and critical inquiry, preparing students for advanced specialization in various fields of educational studies. The curriculum involves guided independent research, seminars, and supplementary coursework, culminating in a thesis and oral examination. Ph.D. candidates will engage in critical literature reviews, idea formulation, research design, and theory building under the guidance of experienced scholars. The program offers opportunities for students to deepen their expertise in specific areas of education, contributing to the advancement of educational knowledge and practice. Graduates are well-prepared to pursue careers in research, policy, and academic leadership within the education sector.
PhD
Level
€23k
Tuition
58 mo
Duration
Scholarships
for Hong Kong
partial fundingThe University of Hong Kong
HKU Entrance Scholarship for International Students
For non-local (international) students applying for full-time undergraduate study at the University of Hong Kong (HKU). Awards are merit-based and most applicants are considered automatically through the admissions process; top candidates may receive partial or full scholarships covering tuition and, in some cases, living costs.
partial
Funding
€60k
Max
Nov 30, 2026
Deadline
partial fundingHong Kong University of Science and Technology
HKUST Academic Admission Scholarship for International Qualifications
For international (non-local) applicants entering full-time undergraduate study at HKUST with international qualifications (e.g. IB, A-Levels, AP/SAT). Awards are merit-based and most applicants are considered automatically on admission, with the strongest offered partial or full scholarships.
partial
Funding
€60k
Max
Nov 15, 2026
Deadline
full fundingResearch Grants Council of Hong Kong (RGC)
Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS)
For outstanding students of any nationality applying for full-time PhD study at Hong Kong's University Grants Committee-funded universities. The fellowship provides a monthly stipend and a travel allowance; applicants first make an initial application to the Research Grants Council, then a full PhD application to a chosen university.
full
Funding
€45k
Max
Dec 1, 2026
Deadline
full fundingHong Kong University of Science and Technology
HKUST Postgraduate Studentship
For students admitted to full-time research postgraduate programmes (MPhil/PhD) at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST). Studentships support research students with a monthly stipend; strong applicants may also be nominated for the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme.
full
Funding
€32k
Max
Dec 1, 2026
Deadline
full funding
Wellcome Trust
Wellcome Trust Fellowships and Grants (for international researchers)
For researchers at different career stages working on health-related science. Wellcome funds a family of fellowships and grants — early-career, career-development, and discovery awards, plus team and translational funding — each with its own eligibility, value, and call deadline. There is no single scholarship application; you apply to the specific scheme that fits your stage and project.
full
Funding
€3000k
Max
Rolling
Deadline
full funding
Wellcome Trust
Wellcome International Training Fellowships
For early-career researchers based in low- and middle-income countries (outside the high-income world) who want protected time and support for research training in health, often including a PhD or postdoctoral research. Wellcome's scheme names and exact criteria change over time, so applicants should check the current relevant Wellcome funding scheme.
full
Funding
€150k
Max
Rolling
Deadline
Frequently asked questions
What are the tuition fees for international students at CUHK?
+
The annual tuition fee for non-local students in the 2026-27 academic year is HK$214,000. Any yearly fee adjustment for the 2026 cohort will be capped at 3%. Dual-degree undergraduate programs may have different fees. A caution fee of HK$450 is also required upon admission.
What are the estimated living costs for international students?
+
International students should budget approximately HK$50,000-70,000 per year for living expenses. This includes accommodation, food, transport, and personal costs. On-campus hostel places are subsidized but competitively allocated.
What is CUHK's global standing?
+
CUHK is ranked #1 in Hong Kong by U.S. News & World Report Best Global Universities Rankings 2025–2026, #10 in Asia by Times Higher Education Asia University Rankings 2026, and #32 worldwide by QS World University Rankings 2026.
How does CUHK support its international students?
+
CUHK offers world-class education and research facilities, a diverse student body, impactful projects, and an extensive global alumni network. The university also provides comprehensive financial support and scholarship opportunities.
What are the English proficiency requirements for international applicants?
+
Non-local applicants need to meet English proficiency requirements unless they graduated from an institution where English is the medium of instruction. Accepted tests include TOEFL (iBT score of 79) and IELTS (Academic score of 6.5).
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