HONG KONG · HONG KONG
University of Hong Kong
public · Founded 1912 · Languages: en
In short
The University of Hong Kong is a leading international institution established in 1912, offering a diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs with a strong focus on research and global impact. Located in the vibrant city of Hong Kong, it provides a dynamic learning environment with excellent facilities and a commitment to preparing graduates for leadership roles worldwide.
Key facts
- Type
- Public
- Founded
- 1912
- Students
- 21,652
- International students
- 8,000
- Acceptance rate
- 10%
- Tuition (intl)
- €14–27k/yr
- Languages
- EN
- Location
- Hong Kong, Hong Kong
The University of Hong Kong (HKU) is a leading international university located in Hong Kong. Established in 1912, HKU has a rich history and a strong commitment to teaching, learning, and research excellence. The university offers a wide array of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, attracting a diverse student body from around the world. HKU emphasizes interdisciplinary research, with a focus on addressing global challenges in areas such as medical science, clean energy, environment, and social sciences. The university provides state-of-the-art facilities, including extensive library resources and modern research labs, to support its academic community. With a vibrant campus life and a focus on fostering global perspectives, HKU prepares graduates to become leaders and innovators in their respective fields, contributing positively to local, regional, and international communities.
Why study here
- Engage in world-leading research with a focus on global impact.
- Benefit from a broad-based curriculum and professional recognition in various fields.
- Experience a diverse and international learning environment.
- Access extensive library resources and modern research facilities.
Student life
HKU offers a supportive environment for its students, though on-campus housing for postgraduate students is highly competitive and often reserved for those in government-funded programs. The university provides comprehensive library services, with a main library and several specialized branch libraries, offering extensive resources for academic and research pursuits. Beyond academics, students can engage with various residential colleges and halls, fostering community and cultural exchange, even though these are primarily for undergraduate students with limited postgraduate spots. The University Museum and Art Gallery (UMAG) is the oldest continuously operated museum in Hong Kong, offering diverse collections and exhibitions, as well as educational programs.
Fees
InternationalProgramme fees for specific taught postgraduate programs range from HKD 125,000 to HKD 250,000 per year. Application fees are typically HKD 300 to HKD 600 (non-refundable) and a caution money deposit of HKD 350 may be required.
HomeUndergraduate tuition for local students is set at HKD 42,100 per year for government-funded programmes.
LivingResidential places on campus for postgraduate students are limited, and mainly available for students in government-funded programs. Most taught course postgraduate programs are not government-funded. Assistance and advice for private off-campus accommodation are available through CEDARS. Budget roughly HKD 80,000 to 120,000 per year for living costs in Hong Kong.
Tuition fees are subject to university approval and may vary by program. Please refer to individual program pages for precise fee structures.
Admissions
Bachelor's degree or equivalent qualificationRequired for postgraduate programs
Academic qualifications, research experience and potential, standardized test scores, strength of recommendations, communication skillsConsidered for PhD admission
Knowledge of linear algebra, calculus, probability theory, introductory statistics, and computer programmingRequired for Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence
Two or more years of related work experiencePreferred for Master of Social Sciences in Sustainability Leadership and Governance
Research proposal (6-8 pages)Required for PhD admissions
GMAT/GRE score reportRequired for PhD admissions, taken within five years (GRE: 2482, GMAT: FS2-WL-48)
TOEFL80 or above
IELTSOverall band 6 with no subtest lower than 5.5
GCEGrade C or above
IGCSEGrade C or above
Cambridge Test of Proficiency in English LanguageGrade C or above
Rankings
QS World University Rankings 202617
QS World University Rankings 2026 (Asia)Top 5
Times Higher EducationTop 40 worldwide
University scholarships
Entrance Scholarships in MSc(EEE) and MSc(EnergyE)Equivalent to the tuition fees for the first year
EE72 Kam Yin Chan ScholarshipAround HK$10,000
EE72 Philip Ng ScholarshipAround HK$10,000
EE72 Allan Wong ScholarshipAround HK$10,000
Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPF)—
Felix Wu Postgraduate Scholarship in Clean Energy & Environment—
PhD Studentship under the HKU-Cambridge Clean Energy and Environment Research Platform—
Accreditation
The University of Hong Kong is a recognized university, with various programs holding professional recognition. For instance, the Faculty of Engineering offers professionally recognized BEng/BASc programs. Further details on specific program accreditations can be found on individual faculty websites.
Programs
a selectionUniversity of Hong Kong · Hong Kong
Advanced Natural Language Processing (DATA8005)
This graduate-level course offers an introduction to Natural Language Processing (NLP), focusing on computational approaches to understanding human language. It is designed for students aiming to conduct cutting-edge research in the field. The course covers recent advancements in core NLP techniques and modern developments, with a particular emphasis on large language models and language grounding. It also explores emerging NLP research areas such as multimodality, interactivity, and interoperability. Students will develop the skills to understand, design, implement, and test large language models through a comprehensive final project. The curriculum incorporates paper readings and discussions to foster research capabilities, and may include guest lectures from invited speakers. The objective is to equip students with both practical skills and a strong foundation for research in NLP.
Master's
Level
€27k
Tuition
12 mo
Duration
University of Hong Kong · Hong Kong
Bachelor of Arts
The Bachelor of Arts program at the University of Hong Kong (HKU) is a four-year undergraduate degree designed for exploration and personalization. In your first year, you will immerse yourself in a wide range of introductory Arts and Humanities courses, allowing you to discover new interests and passions. The curriculum is flexible, enabling you to combine a major in Arts with other subjects, or to focus deeply on your chosen specialization. HKU also offers unique dual degree options with prestigious international universities like Sciences Po in France and the University of California, Berkeley, allowing you to earn two degrees in four years and gain global experience.
Bachelor's
Level
€25k
Tuition
48 mo
Duration
University of Hong Kong · Hong Kong
Bachelor of Arts & Sciences in Global Health and Development
The Bachelor of Arts & Sciences in Global Health and Development (BASc(GHD)) program at the University of Hong Kong offers a unique interdisciplinary approach to understanding and addressing complex global health challenges and development issues. This program welcomes secondary school students from all academic streams who are passionate about making a difference in the world. By combining a strong foundation in both arts and sciences, students will gain a comprehensive perspective on the factors influencing global health and development, including social, economic, political, and environmental determinants. The curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a deep understanding of diverse cultural contexts. Graduates of this program will be well-equipped for a variety of impactful careers in international organizations, NGOs, government agencies, research institutions, and the private sector, contributing to a healthier and more equitable world.
Bachelor's
Level
€28k
Tuition
—
Duration
University of Hong Kong · Hong Kong
Bachelor of Arts & Sciences in Global Health and Development (BASc(GHD))
The Bachelor of Arts & Sciences in Global Health and Development (BASc(GHD)) is an interdisciplinary program designed for students interested in understanding and addressing complex global health challenges and development issues. It combines rigorous scientific training with a strong foundation in the arts and social sciences to provide a holistic perspective on health and development in a global context. The program aims to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and critical thinking abilities necessary to contribute to improving health outcomes and fostering sustainable development worldwide. Graduates will be prepared for a variety of roles in international organizations, government agencies, NGOs, research institutions, and the private sector.
Bachelor's
Level
€28k
Tuition
36 mo
Duration
University of Hong Kong · Hong Kong
Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Engineering in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science (JS6298)
This is a unique 5-year double degree program that combines the fields of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Data Science with the humanities. It aims to equip students with both technical skills in AI and data science, and the critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and problem-solving abilities typically developed in arts and humanities studies. The program emphasizes responsible development and deployment of technology, focusing on the ethical and societal impacts of AI. Students will gain practical experience through internships and research projects, preparing them to address complex global challenges at the intersection of technology and human experience.
Bachelor's
Level
€28k
Tuition
60 mo
Duration
University of Hong Kong · Hong Kong
Bachelor of Arts and Sciences in Global Health and Development (BASc(GHD))
The Bachelor of Arts and Sciences in Global Health and Development (BASc(GHD)) programme at the University of Hong Kong offers a unique interdisciplinary approach to understanding and addressing complex global health challenges. This program is designed for students interested in the intersection of health, social sciences, and policy, preparing them for careers in international organizations, government agencies, non-profits, and research institutions focused on improving health outcomes worldwide. The curriculum combines rigorous academic study with practical field experience, allowing students to develop a comprehensive understanding of global health issues from both a local and international perspective. Graduates will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to contribute to sustainable development and health equity on a global scale.
Bachelor's
Level
€28k
Tuition
48 mo
Duration
Scholarships
for Hong Kongpartial 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 the University of Hong Kong?
+
Programme fees for taught postgraduate programs range from HKD 125,000 to HKD 250,000 per year. Application fees are typically HKD 300 to HKD 600, and a caution money deposit of HKD 350 may be required. Tuition fees are subject to university approval and can vary by program.
What are the estimated living costs for students in Hong Kong?
+
Budget roughly HKD 80,000 to 120,000 per year for living costs in Hong Kong. While on-campus residential places for postgraduate students are limited, assistance and advice for private off-campus accommodation are available.
What are the English language proficiency requirements for admission?
+
Applicants typically need a TOEFL score of 80 or above, or an IELTS overall band of 6 with no subtest lower than 5.5. English language test scores must have been taken within two years prior to September 1 of the admissions year.
What is the University of Hong Kong's global ranking?
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The University of Hong Kong is ranked 17th in the QS World University Rankings 2026 and is among the Top 5 in Asia by QS World University Rankings 2026. It is also ranked in the Top 40 worldwide by Times Higher Education.
Does the University of Hong Kong offer scholarships for international students?
+
Yes, the university offers various scholarships based on academic merit and research potential, such as the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme and specific scholarships for postgraduate programs in fields like Clean Energy & Environment.
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