Study in Hong Kong
Study in Hong Kong: A World-Class Education Awaits You
- Globally Ranked Universities
- Scholarships for Indian Students
- Post-Study Work Visas
Want To Study In Hong Kong?
Why Study in Hong Kong?
If you’re asking, “Should I study in Hong Kong?”, you’re in good company. Thousands of Indian and international students are now choosing to study in Hong Kong not only for its great academics but for the global exposure right in the middle of Asia.
Hong Kong is a rapidly emerging study destination that incorporates Western education with Asian culture and innovation. It is one of the safest and most modern locations in the world in which to live, and it will provide a good home for students from any background. Are you wondering “Is it safe to study in Hong Kong?” You have little to worry about – Hong Kong is consistently ranked highly for factors like safety, student freedom, and student support.
Hong Kong’s venerable universities have led to many students to study in Hong Kong. Specifically, universities like the University of Hong Kong (HKU), Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) and City University of Hong Kong (CityU), are some of the best places to study in Hong Kong and offer many of the latest facilities as well as good industry links that will provide a solid foundation for an impactful career.
Many students may ask “How to study in Hong Kong as an Indian student?” or “Where to study in Hong Kong with the best career options?” This is due mainly to Hong Kong having land some of the best universities in the world which benefit from strong governmental support for education and offer attractive scholarships for students to study in Hong Kong, particularly for Indian students.
The cost of study in Hong Kong remains competitive compared to the US or UK. If you are wondering how much does it cost to study in Hong Kong the tuition fees are generally HK$120,000 -HK$170,000 per year. Living costs are also manageable with proper planning.
If you are still not certain about your decision – let’s make it easy. If you’re looking for:
- Globally recognised degrees
- Industry-aligned programs
- English-medium education
- Cultural diversity and career growth
Therefore, the question is not “Should I study in Hong Kong?”, but “When do I start?”
Whether you are trying to find the best scholarships for Indian students to study in Hong Kong!, trying to get your head around how to study in Hong Kong, or looking at the places to study in Hong Kong with the best value – Career Width is here to navigate the entire process.
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Top Courses to Study in Hong Kong
If you’ve been exploring university websites and asking yourself the question, “What should I study in Hong Kong?”, congratulations! You are on the right track. Hong Kong is not just an educational destination, but a place that will bridge East and West, and help you launch your career across borders.
Whether you are searching for places to study in Hong Kong, looking for scholarships to study in Hong Kong, or are just wondering “should I study in Hong Kong for this course?”, this list should provide you with answers. These top 5 programs are high demand, internationally recognized or highly transferable, while also being ideal for Indian as well as international students who want to have an impact on the world.
| Course | Details |
|---|---|
| Business and Management | Offered by HKU and CityU with strong industry links and case studies. Includes Finance, Accounting, Marketing, and Entrepreneurship. Merit-based and need-based scholarships available. |
| Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence | HKUST excels in AI and machine learning. Includes NLP, robotics, and cybersecurity. Project-based learning and startup exposure. Scholarships for high academic achievers. |
| Engineering and Technology | Internationally accredited programs at HKU and CityU. Areas: Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, Environmental. Includes real-world smart infrastructure projects. Post-study internships and part-funded scholarships available. |
| Data Science and Business Analytics | HKUST and CityU focus on Python, R, Tableau, cloud platforms, and live data projects. Collaboration with healthcare and logistics sectors. Indian students eligible for generous scholarships. |
| Architecture and Urban Planning | Emphasis on sustainability and smart city design at HKU and CityU. Global exposure through expos and urban policy projects. Scholarships offered for arts and design students. |
Top Universities in Hong Kong
When searching for the best places to study in Hong Kong, three universities stand out above all others – The University of Hong Kong (HKU), The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) and City University of Hong Kong (CityU). These three university are not just world-class in the global rankings of universities, they are universities that are the hub of academic excellence, cultural diversity, and innovation in Asia.
If you are an Indian student, you may be asking yourself: Why study in Hong Kong? Should I study in Hong Kong rather than the US, UK or Canada? The answer to these questions is simple, these institutions provide an unrivalled quality of experience, affordability, global employability, and all close to home.
Below is an overview of the top three higher education institutions that make studying in Hong Kong a no-brainer for Indian and international students.
| University | Global Ranking | Type | Medium of Instruction | Key Highlights | In-Demand Courses | Scholarships |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The University of Hong Kong (HKU) | Top 30 (QS) | Public Research University | English | – Oldest university in HK (1911) – British-influenced education – Strong in research, medicine, business | – MBBS (Medicine & Surgery) – BBA (International Business) – LLB (Law) – BA (Politics & Public Administration) – BSc (Biomedical Sciences) – Master in Data Science | – Entrance Scholarships – HKU Foundation Scholarships – Regional Assistance Packages |
| Hong Kong University of Science & Technology (HKUST) | Top 40 (QS) | Public Research University | English | – Leading in science, tech, business – Campus at Clear Water Bay – Strong industry links, innovation hub | – BEng (Computer Engineering) – BSc (AI) – BBA (Finance & Economics) – MSc (Big Data Technology) – MSc (Robotics) – Executive MBA (Kellogg-HKUST) | – Merit-based Scholarships – Support for South Asian Students |
| City University of Hong Kong (CityU) | Top 100 (QS) | Public Research University | English | – Modern, applied learning – Strong in design, communication – Great cultural support for Indians | – BSc (Computer Science) – BA (Digital Media & Creative Arts) – BBA (Business Analysis) – LLB (International Law) – MSc (Marketing) – Master (New Media & Communication) | – Full/Partial Scholarships – Accommodation Subsidies – Academic Awards |
Why These Universities Are Worth Your Investment
- All three institutions are highly ranked and recognized worldwide.
- They all provide a safe multicultural environment – excellent, if you’re questioning is it safe to study in Hong Kong.
- They all have programs taught in English, facilitating a seamless transition for Indian students—no language barriers.
- Each of these three institutions has strong scholarship packages, and flexible ways to submit an application.
- And their campuses are very conveniently located for students so you will have the best spots to study in Hong Kong and a city of opportunity.
If you are thinking about how much does it cost to study in Hong Kong, or just want to get your bespoke questions answered about how to study in Hong Kong, we, at Career Width, are here to assist you every step of the way from application to admission.
These institutions will offer much more than just a piece of paper and a stamp—they will offer you post-study work options, international exposure and networks for life.
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Scholarships to Study in Hong Kong
One of the main worries for international students looking to study abroad is the cost. Unsurprisingly, many students will ask, how much does it cost to study in Hong Kong? Even though tuition fees and living costs in Hong Kong are generally lower than many Western nations, a scholarship can still cut down your overall cost substantially.
The bright side is: There are a range of merit-based, need based, and government funded scholarships for people from other nations, and there are in fact scholarships for Indians who wish to study in Hong Kong. With appropriate guidance it is not just possible to get a scholarship, it is also very doable.
| Scholarship Name | Level of Study | Eligibility | Amount / Value | Universities / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) | Doctoral (PhD) | International students with outstanding academic performance | HK$325,200 annually + travel allowance | All UGC-funded universities (HKU, HKUST, CityU, etc.) |
| HKU – Entrance Scholarships for International Students | Undergraduate / Postgraduate | Based on CBSE/ICSE/IB scores | Partial to full tuition waivers | No separate application; automatic consideration during admission |
| HKUST – International Scholarships | Undergraduate / Postgraduate | 90%+ marks and strong SOP | HK$20,000–HK$70,000+ per year (renewable) | Performance-based renewal policy |
| CityU – Entrance Scholarships | Undergraduate / Postgraduate | Academic merit + IELTS/TOEFL | Full tuition + on-campus accommodation | Awarded competitively |
| Belt and Road Scholarship (India) | Undergraduate | Indian students with strong academic performance | Full tuition waiver | Primarily at HKU, HKUST, CityU; govt initiative for India ties |
| HKSAR Government Scholarship Fund | Undergraduate / Postgraduate | Excellent academics + community contribution | Up to HK$80,000 per academic year | Can be combined with university scholarships |
Maximize Your Chances of Getting Scholarships to Study in Hong Kong
Start Your Research Early
Once you decide to study in Hong Kong—whether after 12th or for higher education—it’s important to begin researching scholarships early. This gives you enough time to explore all available options and prepare competitive applications.
Focus on Building a Strong Academic Profile
Scholarships in Hong Kong are mostly merit-based. Maintain excellent academic results and take part in extracurricular activities that highlight your skills, leadership, and community involvement.
Write a Strong Personal Statement
Your personal statement should clearly explain why you want to study in Hong Kong. Talk about your academic goals, career plans, and what makes you a unique and deserving candidate.
Secure Strong Recommendation Letters
Request letters of recommendation from teachers, professors, or mentors who can genuinely vouch for your academic abilities, character, and achievements. These letters can give your application a strong boost.
Get Guidance from Experts
Consider working with experienced study abroad consultants who specialize in Hong Kong. They can assist with reviewing documents, refining your application, and preparing you for scholarship interviews, helping you stand out from other candidates.
Why Scholarships Matter for Indian Students
Attending elite universities like HKU, HKUST, and City University of Hong Kong is aspirational for many, but it may initially seem prohibitive in terms of cost. Study in Hong Kong scholarships can make all the difference by not only alleviating the financial burden but enhancing your application as well.
Regardless of whether you are completing an undergraduate, postgraduate, or doctoral degree, there are funding opportunities that may be available to you that cover your tuition fees as well as accommodation and maybe even travel or living costs.
Below we will look at the main scholarships to study in Hong Kong, specifically useful for study in Hong Kong for Indian students.
Cost of Living in Hong Kong
One of the biggest worries for Indian families is the monthly living costs! Many students ask, is it expensive to live and study in Hong Kong? While Hong Kong is an energetic and vibrant urban place, students can still live well on a budget.
Overview of monthly living expenses for a typical international student is as follows:
| Expense Type | Average Monthly Cost (in HKD) | Approx. Cost in INR |
|---|---|---|
| Student Accommodation (shared) | HK$3,000 – HK$6,000 | ₹31,500 – ₹63,000 |
| Food & Meals | HK$2,000 – HK$3,000 | ₹21,000 – ₹31,500 |
| Transportation | HK$300 – HK$500 | ₹3,200 – ₹5,200 |
| Books & Materials | HK$500 – HK$800 | ₹5,200 – ₹8,400 |
| Personal Expenses | HK$1,000 – HK$1,500 | ₹10,500 – ₹15,800 |
Begin Your Journey With Career Width Today
If you’re serious about your decision to study in Hong Kong as an Indian student, Career Width is ready to fast-track your admission process. With detailed guidance, admission strategies, and one-on-one support, we make sure you’re not alone in this important journey.
Whether it’s deciding why study in Hong Kong, understanding how much money is required to study in Hong Kong, or exploring scholarships and managing applications, we’re here to guide you at every step.
Reach out to our expert counselors and begin your journey to Hong Kong today. Your international future starts with a single decision — let Career Width help you make it the right one.
Frequently Asked Question - Study In Hong Kong
Hong Kong is the perfect place if you want world-class education, an affordable price, and a safe environment. Universities of a globally recognized standard, internationally recognized degrees, and a friendly, multicultural city, which is English-friendly. For Indian students, it is also more cost-effective than the UK, US, or Australia. There are great opportunities for post-study work through the IANG visa scheme. So if you are still wondering why study in Hong Kong, it is quality, location, career opportunities, and global exposure!
The expenses of studying in Hong Kong depends on your course and university. The average tuition fees for undergraduate and postgraduate classes will, usually, be between HK$90,000 to HK$150,000 per year (tuition fee for international students). Living costs will generally be then between HK$8,000 to HK$12,000 per month. Although this sounds a little steep, available scholarships will definitely help Indian students and more students in general, easily study abroad in Hong Kong.
Yes, many prominent universities, including HKU, HKUST, and City University of Hong Kong, provide very generous study in Hong Kong scholarships. Many of these scholarships include merit-based, needs-based, and research assistantship. If you feel you need scholarships to help you to study in Hong Kong, or you are struggling to find a scholarship opportunity, Career Width is fully committed to providing you support so that you have the best extent possible chance of obtaining funding.
The best places to study in Hong Kong include:
- The University of Hong Kong (HKU) – The number one university in the city, in the top 10 in Asia.
- Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) – A leader in the areas of STEM, innovation, and of business.
- City University of Hong Kong – Great for media, creative arts, engineering, and tech.
All of these universities are academic and research leaders with great faculty and connections to the industry so they are the best options for international students.
Yes, it is secure to study in Hong Kong. The city is high on the global safety index, has great healthcare, a reliable transportation system, good laws for students, and safe campuses. Universities have excellent student services and support for overseas students. If you are thoroughly worried about safety, I assure you, Hong Kong is one of the safer options for Indian students and international students.
The most typical questions students ask are: Should I study in Hong Kong if I want to work there after graduation? The answer is a resounding yes.
With a strong economy, multicultural business environment, and increasing global demand for talent, Hong Kong presents strong post-study career opportunities for international study. In fact, one of the biggest reasons to study in Hong Kong is the attractive post-study work visa and the opportunities that follow.
If you are thinking of studying at prestigious Hong Kong universities like HKU, HKUST, or City University of Hong Kong, you’ll be pleased to know that your degree opens a world of career options, both locally and internationally.
Post-Study Work Visa: IANG Scheme
Hong Kong provides a very postgraduate friendly avenue to employment after graduation known as the Immigration Arrangements for Non-local Graduates (IANG).
What is IANG?
IANG allows international students who have received their degree from a recognized Hong Kong institution to remain and work in Hong Kong free of any job offer at the time of application.
Key Features of IANG:
- Initially valid for 12 months
- No job offer required for application
- Allows job search in any industry
- Extensions available upon securing a job offer
Available to all new graduates and any graduates from the last 6 months
This means that the IANG visa is one of the most flexible and easiest post-study work schemes in all of Asia!
Who is Eligible?
To qualify, you must:
- be a non-local student (i.e. an international student)
- have completed a full time degree (bachelor’s degree or above) within Hong Kong
- apply within 6 months of graduation if you do not have a job
So whether you are studying engineering, finance, design, AI, or business studies, this visa allows beyond plenty of time to locate those locations to study in Hong Kong, and land a career opportunity.
Top Industries Hiring International Graduates
Hong Kong is a global business hub, and that reflects in its job market. Some of the most active industries recruiting international graduates include:
- Banking & Financial Services
- Technology & Startups
- Media & Creative Industries
- Data Science & AI
- Engineering & Architecture
- Supply Chain & Logistics
- Legal & Compliance
- Consulting & Business Strategy
Strong English language facilities and proximity to Mainland China make Hong Kong one of the easiest cities for international students to enter work life.
Average Salaries & Work Culture
Although cost of study in Hong Kong, and living costs, are considerations whenever we study abroad, Hong Kong also has strong salary levels for graduates.
- Graduates from HKU and HKUST have starting graduate salaries of HK$20,000 to HK$30,000 a month, depending on what field you are working in.
- Finance, IT and data related roles tend to be higher offered packages, with postgraduates having higher packages.
- The working culture is fast paced, professional and multilingual in Hong Kong, which is ideal for Indians studying in a consistent English language.
Do Scholarships or Visas Affect Work Rights?
No. If you’ve studied on a study in Hong Kong scholarship, you still qualify for IANG. Your student visa will automatically turn into a post-study work visa once you apply for IANG after you graduate.
This also applies to students who received scholarships for Indian students to study in Hong Kong, or those who received other scholarships to study in Hong Kong. There is no restrictions based on the type of funding.
Once you have received an admission offer from a university in Hong Kong, the next important step is to apply for a student visa. A student visa allows you to legally live and study in Hong Kong for the duration of your course. This encompasses all international students on a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral programme.
Whether you have been wondering how to study in Hong Kong or have been asked, is it safe to study in Hong Kong, all things begin from here; aligning acceptable documentation and timelines to formally engage the process.
At Career Width, we have successfully guided hundreds of Indian students through their journey to study in Hong Kong, with the help of step-by-step visa processing support, so let’s break it down for you.
Who Needs a Student Visa to Study in Hong Kong?
It is mandatory that international students (including Indian students) acquire a student visa for their studies in Hong Kong (“entry permit for study”) if they are pursuing studies full-time in Hong Kong.
This applies to all levels of study, for example:
- Undergraduate degrees
- Postgraduate programs and research
- Diploma or short-term certificate courses with a recognized institution
If you are going to study at universities such as HKU, HKUST, or City University of Hong Kong (these are some of the best places to study in Hong Kong) you need to start your visa after you receive your admission letter.
Who Issues the Visa?
Student visas are issued by the Hong Kong Immigration Department. Your host university will act as your local sponsor and help submit part of your application.
Documents Required for Hong Kong Student Visa
To begin your visa application, you’ll need to prepare the following:
From the Student:
ID995A form (Application for Entry for Study) completed
- A copy of your valid passport
- Passport-sized photo
- Proof of admission (official offer letter)
- Proof of funds (bank statements of the past 3-6 months showing available funds)
- Academic Certificates or Transcripts
- Proof of accommodation in Hong Kong
- Travel itinerary (if applicable)
- Statement of purpose (why you chose Hong Kong and your course)
From the Sponsor University:
- Completed ID995B form, (completed by the university
- Copy of the university’s registration
- Details about your program & duration of your course.
Step 1: Receive your admission offer
After you confirm your acceptance to a university in Hong Kong, ask your university for the visa sponsorship documents.
Step 2: Complete visa forms (ID995A & ID995B)
While your university is filling in the sponsor’s form, you should also be completing your student visa application form.
Step 3: Submit all documents
Your complete set of documents must be sent to the Hong Kong Immigration Department by post, or handed in through your university’s international office.
Step 4: Wait for approval
Processing time for Visas is usually 6-8 weeks. Once an entry permit is approved, you will receive your “entry permit”
Step 5: Travel and arrive with visa
When you are ready to fly to Hong Kong, it is a good practice to carry your entry permit, passport, and original admission documents.
Important Notes for Indian Students
If you are an Indian citizen looking to study in Hong Kong, here are a few important things to note:
- There are no in-person interviews or biometrics.
- There is no e-visa, the visa will be issued in the format of a physical entry permit.
- A local sponsor is required, usually your university will be your local sponsor.
- You should apply at least 2 months before your intended travel date.
Step-by-Step Admission Process
Let’s walk you through the application process, whether you’re applying for an undergraduate or postgraduate degree.
Step 1: Research Courses & Universities
Visit the options to study in Hong Kong and all the different programs available. Consider starting with:
- University of Hong Kong – Best for Medicine, Business, Law and Arts.
- Hong Kong University of Science and Technology – Engineering, AI, Data Science.
- City University of Hong Kong – Media, Design, Computer Science.
This step is critical for figuring out if you meet the eligibility, what the program structure looks like, and the cost of study in Hong Kong.
Career Width Tip: Compare tuition fees and available scholarships, and course outcomes to see which university program will fit best for you, including whether your career goals are aligned with the global ranking and industry connections of the university.
Step 2: Prepare Application Documents
Once you’ve determined your course and university, you’ll want to collect your academic and personal documents. They usually include:
- Academic transcripts (Class X/XII certificates or UG Degree certificates
- English language scores (IELTS/TOEFL)
- Statement of Purpose (aka SOP)
- Letters of Recommendation (1-3)
- Passport-sized and passport copy
- Resume/CV (for PG courses)
- Portfolio (for design/architecture)
- Research proposal (for PhD)
Remember: Top universities in Hong Kong will view applications holistically—your SOP, recommendations and whether your goals are clear will help you stand out amongst other applications.
Step 3: Apply Online via University Portals
Other than centralized systems (e.g., UCAS in the UK) Hong Kong universities use independent online portals. You will have to submit your application to each institution/site.
- Applications generally open September/October before Fall intake (September of the following year).
- For the Spring intake (January), deadlines will usually be around August onward until October.
- Most study in Hong Kong scholarships are available only to early applicants, so you’ll want to get your applications in as soon as possible.
Pro Tip: Apply to 2-3 universities every time you apply, to increase your acceptance chances.
Step 4: Pay Application Fee & Submit
There is a small processing fee (HK$450–HK$600) for each application and this is paid online. Once you have paid the fee, you submit your application.
Career Width can help you prepare all your documents, help you fill your forms properly and ensure you do not miss any important details that may cause a delay on your application.
Step 5: Attend Interviews (if applicable)
Some programs, in particular Business, Law and Research, may require an online interview. Do not worry—it is only to find out your motivation and communication skills.
We assist students with interviews by conducting mock interviews and personal coaching.
Step 6: Receive Offer Letter & Accept
If your application is accepted, you will get a conditional or unconditional offer. Upon acceptance:
- You typically need to pay a deposit fee (usually takes away from your tuition payment)
- Start preparing for your student visa process
Step 7: Apply for Hong Kong Student Visa
After you accept your offer, the university will send you the documents required to apply for a student visa. Visa approval typically takes 6–8 weeks.
We provide support to all Career Width students regarding:
- Completing the visa application (ID995A)
- Preparing financial documents
- Submitting medical records (if required)
- Correspondence to the Hong Kong Immigration Department
Common Question: Is it safe to study in Hong Kong?
Yes. Hong Kong is regarded as one of the safest cities in Asia for students, has a low crime rate, good public services.