HONG KONG · CLEAR WATER BAY
Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
public · Founded 1991 · Languages: en, zh
In short
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST), founded in 1991, is a world-renowned research university offering programs in Science, Engineering, Business, and Humanities & Social Science, taught in English. It boasts strong global rankings, significant postgraduate funding opportunities, and a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Key facts
- Type
- Public
- Founded
- 1991
- Students
- 20,000
- International students
- 6,500
- Acceptance rate
- 24%
- Tuition (intl)
- €14–22k/yr
- Languages
- EN, ZH
- Location
- Clear Water Bay, Hong Kong
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) was established in 1991 and has rapidly become one of the world's leading research-intensive universities. Located on a scenic hillside overlooking Clear Water Bay in Hong Kong, HKUST offers programmes in Science, Engineering, Business and Management, and Humanities and Social Science, with English as the medium of instruction. HKUST is renowned for cutting-edge research, strong industry partnerships, and an entrepreneurial culture that has spawned major technology companies. Its business school is consistently ranked among the best in Asia, and its computer science, engineering, and data-science programmes are globally recognised. With a diverse student body from 70+ nationalities and generous PhD funding through the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme and internal studentships, HKUST attracts ambitious researchers from across the world. A second campus in Guangzhou deepens its mainland China connections.
Why study here
- Consistently ranked among the world's top 50 universities despite being founded only in 1991.
- Full postgraduate funding: PhD students receive approximately HKD 229,620/year stipend plus tuition waiver.
- English-medium instruction in an international city connecting East and West.
- World-ranked Business School with top-10 EMBA globally (Financial Times Kellogg-HKUST EMBA).
- Booming entrepreneurial ecosystem: HKUST alumni have co-founded DJI, SenseTime, and other global tech firms.
Student life
HKUST's compact campus offers on-campus halls, diverse dining, a large sports complex, and stunning sea views. Students can join over 130 student societies spanning arts, culture, sports, and entrepreneurship. The Entrepreneurship Center and HKUST Robotics Team are particularly active. The university runs one of Asia's largest student-exchange networks with more than 260 partner institutions worldwide. Hong Kong's vibrant city life — world-class dining, hiking trails, and easy access to mainland China and Southeast Asia — enriches the student experience.
Fees
InternationalNon-local undergraduate annual tuition: approximately HKD 140,000 (around EUR 16,500). MPhil/PhD annual tuition: HKD 47,000 (around EUR 5,500) — typically covered by the postgraduate studentship. MBA total programme fee: approximately HKD 950,000. DBA total tuition: HKD 1,800,000.
HomeLocal undergraduate tuition: HKD 42,100 per year (University Grants Committee-subsidised rate).
LivingEstimated monthly living costs in Hong Kong: HKD 8,000–12,000 (approximately EUR 950–1,400). On-campus halls available for undergraduates.
Non-local students must obtain a student visa (minimum 8 weeks processing time). Tuition fees are subject to annual revision.
Admissions
Undergraduate (International)Qualifications equivalent to Hong Kong DSE or A-levels; program-specific subject requirements apply.
MPhil/PhDBachelor's degree or above; exceptional bachelor's graduates may apply directly for PhD. Research proposal required.
MBABachelor's degree, GMAT/GRE score, minimum 3 years' work experience, two references, interview.
DBABachelor's degree (master's preferred) and minimum 12 years' managerial experience.
TOEFL iBT80 (tests before Jan 2026); 4.5 (tests from Jan 2026)
IELTS Academic6.5 overall, all sub-scores minimum 5.5
TOEFL pBT550
Rankings
QS World University Rankings 202547
Times Higher Education World University Rankings 202567
Financial Times Global MBA Rankings 2024 (Asia)3
Financial Times EMBA Rankings 2024 (Kellogg-HKUST)1
QS Asia University Rankings 20266
University scholarships
Postgraduate Studentship (MPhil/PhD)~HKD 229,620/year (~EUR 27,000)
Hong Kong PhD Fellowship SchemeHKD 337,200/year + HKD 14,600 travel allowance
HKUST Undergraduate ScholarshipVaries — merit-based, awarded at admission
DBA Program AwardsVaries — six awards for diversity and excellence
Accreditation
HKUST is a statutory university established under the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Ordinance (Cap. 1141). Engineering programmes are accredited by the Hong Kong Institution of Engineers (HKIE); business programmes hold AACSB and EQUIS accreditation.
Programs
a selectionHong Kong University of Science and Technology · Hong Kong
Bachelor of Engineering in Energy and Environmental Engineering
This Bachelor of Engineering program provides a comprehensive education in both energy and environmental engineering. Students will gain a solid understanding of traditional and renewable energy resources, power generation, energy storage, and conversion, alongside crucial environmental engineering topics such as waste management, pollution control, environmental impact assessment, and policy. The curriculum also includes a strong foundation in chemical processes and is enhanced by robust training in mathematical modeling and engineering design. The program emphasizes practical experience through ample internship and undergraduate research opportunities, culminating in a final-year capstone project that can involve design, research, or industrial co-ops. The objective is to equip graduates with a balance of technical knowledge and professional skills, preparing them for lifelong learning and for addressing complex societal challenges in their engineering careers or further studies.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
48 mo
Duration
Hong Kong University of Science and Technology · Hong Kong
Business Administration (BBA) at HKUST
The Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) program at HKUST provides a comprehensive business education, equipping students with a strong foundation in core business disciplines and the flexibility to specialize. The program fosters analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a global perspective, preparing graduates for diverse career paths in the dynamic business world. Students benefit from world-class faculty, cutting-edge research, and a vibrant campus environment. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical application through case studies, projects, and internships. The BBA program offers various streams, allowing students to deepen their expertise in areas such as Accounting, Economics, Finance, Information Systems, Management, Marketing, Operations Management, and Quantitative Finance. This specialization ensures that graduates are well-prepared for specific industry demands and can pursue their career aspirations effectively. The program encourages interdisciplinary learning and global exposure, with opportunities for exchange programs and international collaborations. HKUST is committed to nurturing future business leaders who can drive innovation and contribute to sustainable business practices. The BBA program aims to develop well-rounded individuals with strong ethical values, leadership potential, and the ability to adapt to the ever-changing global market. Graduates are highly sought after by leading companies across various sectors, both locally and internationally.
Bachelor's
Level
€16k
Tuition
48 mo
Duration
Hong Kong University of Science and Technology · Hong Kong
Business Administration (Undergraduate)
The HKUST Business School offers a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) program designed to cultivate future leaders in the global business arena. This program provides a comprehensive foundation in business principles and practices, preparing students to tackle complex challenges in diverse industries. Students will develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills through a rigorous curriculum and engaging learning experiences.
Bachelor's
Level
€20k
Tuition
48 mo
Duration
Hong Kong University of Science and Technology · Hong Kong
Business with Extended Major in Artificial Intelligence / Digital Media and Creative Arts / Sustainability
The Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) program at HKUST offers students the opportunity to specialize in a broad range of disciplines. This particular program allows for an extended major, providing in-depth knowledge in one or more specialized areas. Students will develop a strong foundation in business principles while also gaining expertise in cutting-edge fields. The curriculum is designed to foster analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a global perspective, preparing graduates for diverse career paths in a rapidly evolving world. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary learning and practical application, encouraging students to tackle complex challenges in business and society.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
48 mo
Duration
Hong Kong University of Science and Technology · Hong Kong
Civil and Environmental Engineering Postgraduate Programs
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) offers a range of postgraduate programs in Civil Engineering and Environmental Engineering designed to deepen your knowledge and equip you with advanced skills. These programs aim to train students to tackle complex challenges in infrastructure development, environmental conservation, and sustainable practices. You will gain in-depth understanding of design, construction, maintenance, and management, preparing you for leadership roles in a rapidly evolving field. Research opportunities are available across various specializations, fostering innovation and original contributions to engineering and environmental science.
Master's
Level
—
Tuition
24 mo
Duration
Hong Kong University of Science and Technology · Hong Kong
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) offers a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program designed to cultivate the next generation of researchers and thought leaders. This program encourages applications from individuals with diverse academic backgrounds, including business, science, engineering, arts, and other disciplines. The university prioritizes full-time applications, with part-time study considered only in exceptional circumstances. Admission is competitive, and applicants are advised to check with individual departments for specific admission cycles and requirements.
PhD
Level
€5k
Tuition
48 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 HKUST?
+
Non-local undergraduate tuition is approximately HKD 140,000 per year. MPhil/PhD annual tuition is HKD 47,000, which is typically covered by a studentship. MBA and DBA programs have significantly higher total program fees.
What are the estimated living costs for students in Hong Kong?
+
Estimated monthly living costs in Hong Kong range from HKD 8,000 to HKD 12,000. On-campus accommodation is available for undergraduates.
Does HKUST offer funding for postgraduate students?
+
Yes, HKUST offers generous PhD funding. The Postgraduate Studentship provides approximately HKD 229,620 per year, and the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme offers HKD 337,200 per year plus a travel allowance.
What are the English language proficiency requirements for international applicants?
+
Applicants typically need a TOEFL iBT score of 80 (or 4.5 for tests from Jan 2026), an IELTS Academic score of 6.5 overall with all sub-scores at minimum 5.5, or a TOEFL pBT score of 550. Applicants educated entirely in English may be exempt.
What makes HKUST stand out among global universities?
+
HKUST is recognized for its rapid rise to become a leading research university, its scenic location, strong industry ties, and an entrepreneurial culture that has produced successful tech companies. Its business, computer science, and engineering programs are globally acclaimed.
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