Professor Ian Holliday Signs a New Undergraduate Exchange Agreement with LSE

HKU has signed a new undergraduate exchange agreement with the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), marking the first bilateral education collaboration between the two universities. The signing ceremony took place during a visit to HKU by Professor Emma McCoy, Vice President and Pro-Vice Chancellor (Teaching) of LSE, where Professor McCoy met with Professor Ian Holliday, Vice-President and Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Teaching and Learning) of HKU.  LSE is a global community of people an ideas in the heart of central London. Founded in 1895 as a specialist social sciences university, LSE ranks 5th on the QS world university rankings by subjects. The new agreement, signifying the universities' shared vision of providing holistic education that transcends borders, will enable students to embark on an enriching study abroad journey overseas for a year. It is also a testament to HKU's commitment in whole person education, and its efforts in providing transformative international experiences for students to empower them with the skills, knowledge, and values needed to thrive in an increasingly globalised world.

IAO Advising Sessions 2026-27

Throughout the month of November, the International Affairs Office will hold regular advising sessions where you can meet with advisors to learn more about the various study abroad programmes on offer.   Format Advising sessions will available Monday - Thursday on Zoom. Sessions are 10-minute, one-on-one meetings. Pre-registration is required, and students will receive a confirmation email with the Zoom meeting link once their registration has been accepted. Spots are limited and first-come, first-served.   Schedule and Registration Registrations will open one week in advance, and students must register at least one day in advance. Please refer to the table below for the list of available advising sessions and their respective registration links. November 2026 Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday 2 Zoom Advising Session online 15:00 - 16:00 3 Zoom Advising Session online 11:00 - 12:00 4 Zoom Advising Session online 15:00 - 16:00 5 Zoom Advising Session online 11:00 - 12:00 6 9 10 Zoom Advising Session online 15:00 - 16:00 11 Zoom Advising Session online 15:00 - 16:00 12 Zoom Advising Session online 15:00 - 16:00 13 Zoom Advising Session online 11:00 - 12:00 16 Zoom Advising Session online 15:00 - 16:00 17 Zoom Advising Session online 15:00 - 16:00 18 Zoom Advising Session online 15:00 - 16:00 19 Zoom Advising Session online 15:00 - 16:00 20 23 Zoom Advising Session online 15:00 - 16:00 24 Zoom Advising Session online 15:00 - 16:00 25 Zoom Advising Session online 15:00 - 16:00 26 Zoom Advising Session online 15:00 - 16:00 27   Questions? Feel free to send any inquiries to goabroad@hku.hk with your Full Name and UID.

[Call for Applications] Government Subsidy for Exchange Activities 2026-27

Financial planning is an important aspect to consider when studying abroad. In addition to the Financial Assistance offered by the Registry, the Education Bureau (EDB) of the HKSAR Government also provides financial support for local full-time undergraduate students participating in study abroad programmes. We are currently accepting applications for programmes scheduled between September 1, 2026 and August 31, 2027. Here are what you need to know to check your eligibility:     For those who are not receiving financial assistance from the Student Finance Office (SFO), you might still be eligible for the "Non-Means-Tested SSEBR" scheme if your destination is one of the belt-and-road regions!     Highlighted Belt-and-Road regions for Semester-Exchange Programmes: Austria Chile Kazakhstan Luxembourg New Zealand Russia Singapore South Korea Thailand Uruguay        Highlighted Belt-and-Road regions for Short-Term Programmes: Austria Ghana Singapore South Korea Thailand   If you are interested in getting more details, including the application process and subsidized amount, please visit our website.   Eligible Programme Period: September 1, 2026 and August 31, 2027 *Applicants should meet all eligibility criteria prior to approval for the subsidy scheme. The final decision is subject to the review of the application and the necessary documents provided.   Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us. We look forward to receiving your applications!  

New Exchange Destinations: Now Open for HKUWW 2027/28!

HKU has established exchange partnerships with four outstanding European universities: Free University of Amsterdam (VU Amsterdam), Leiden University, University of Barcelona, and Universidad Carlos III de Madrid (UC3M). Students can apply to these exciting destinations through HKUWW 2027/28 — read on to find out what makes each one special. Free University of Amsterdam (VU Amsterdam) Netherlands   Based in one of Europe's most multicultural and dynamic capitals, VU Amsterdam is known for its interdisciplinary approach and inclusive academic culture. With a modern campus in Amsterdam's international business district and a wide range of English-taught courses, it's an ideal destination for students seeking academic breadth and a vibrant city experience. Leiden University Netherlands   The oldest university in the Netherlands (est. 1575), Leiden boasts Nobel laureates among its community and top global rankings in law, political science, and the humanities. With campuses in historic Leiden and international hub The Hague, it offers a unique blend of tradition and global outlook. University of Barcelona Spain   Spain's premier public university and one of Southern Europe's most prestigious institutions, University of Barcelona offers strengths across nearly every discipline. Add Barcelona's stunning architecture, Mediterranean lifestyle, and legendary energy, and you have one of the world's most attractive student cities. Universidad Carlos III de Madrid (UC3M) Spain   One of Spain's most innovative and internationally oriented universities, UC3M excels in economics, business, engineering, and law. Located in Madrid, it offers many English-taught courses, small class sizes, and access to Spain's vibrant capital — a perfect base for exploring Europe. Apply Now!   Visit each university's exchange information page to explore their course offerings and requirements. These new partners are just a few of the many exchange destinations available through HKUWW. Main Round Application for 2027/28 is now open and close on December 11 — explore our offerings and take the first step toward your global experience by applying today!   Explore HKUWW Questions? Contact us at goabroad@hku.hk

Students' Voices: Our Exchange Returnees Share Their Stories

Studying abroad is more than earning credits overseas — it is a life-changing journey that broadens your horizons, builds lasting friendships, and reveals strengths you never knew you had. Every semester, HKU students set off on exchange programmes across the globe, immersing themselves in new cultures, academic traditions, and ways of living. Don't just take our word for it — hear from fellow HKU students who have lived the experience in 2025/26 and returned with stories to share.   Kaitlyn Chan, Year 4, English Studies and Comparative Literature   During my HKUWW exchange semester at the University of Sydney, I learned how rewarding it can be to bond with a place through its nature and vibrant community.   Exploring Sydney's natural environment became a highlight of my exchange — be it a two-day trek in the Blue Mountains, regular runs with the USYD Run Club, or weekly hikes with TrailBabes, an all-female hiking community. These moments helped me discover the city's hidden gems in a way that felt both personal and grounding. Beyond adventure, I also volunteered in beach clean-ups, which taught me the importance of giving back to the environment that had given me so much joy. Stepping further out of my comfort zone, I even took my first-ever solo trip from Sydney to Melbourne to watch the F1 Grand Prix — an experience that truly built my independence and confidence. "These experiences taught me resilience, strength, and the joy of being part of an empowering community. My advice to fellow HKU students: don't be afraid to try new things, talk to new people, and always treasure every fleeting moment." Kaitlyn Chan   "These experiences broadened my cultural awareness and inspired me to keep discovering myself and the world. Looking ahead, I plan to carry this adaptability and openness into my nursing career." Sherry Lee Sherry Lee, Year 4, Nursing   I spent a semester at McGill University in Montréal, Canada, focusing on neuroscience and pharmacology.   This exchange allowed me to grow in a different academic and cultural setting while becoming more independent. A major adjustment was living in Montréal, a bilingual city where French and English are used daily. Whether navigating public transport or getting used to the unique Québécois greeting "Bonjour, Hi!", I gradually became more comfortable communicating and managing everyday life in this new environment. The experience greatly improved my adaptability and my confidence in handling things on my own.   Beyond academics, I travelled to cities such as New York, Boston, Washington, D.C., Vancouver, Toronto, and Quebec City, enjoying diverse cultures and natural wonders — from orca-watching off the coast to sitting by the Charles River.   I encourage HKU students considering an exchange to keep an open mind, pursue opportunities beyond the classroom, and view challenges as catalysts for personal growth.                 "Go with an open heart. You'll gain more than you can imagine." Gigi Chan Gigi Chan, Year 4, Computer Science   Last semester at McMaster University in Hamilton, Canada, was my first time living abroad. I moved into the student house during the Christmas break, when everyone was away. I thought I would have to figure everything out alone — until I noticed the memos my five roommates had left around every corner: how to use the stove, the washing machine, and a box of neck warmers by the fireplace with a note welcoming me to use them. That warmth genuinely saved my life that winter.   On orientation day, my brave-adventurer self got a little flustered, but almost by magic I found my people. My roommates also gave me one of my proudest moments: I had planned to go to an anime festival in Toronto alone, and the second I brought it up, they showed up in a rented car, ready to pick me up and come along. I literally screamed when I realised they were actually coming. We even drove on to Niagara Falls before heading back at midnight. The company made the memory infinitely more golden than I could ever have imagined.   Academically, the Applied Artificial Intelligence course stood out. The professor brought the latest AI news, trends, and tools into class in real time — sometimes just days after they dropped. The hands-on labs let us experiment with tools still limited or restricted in Hong Kong. It kept everything thrillingly fresh and completely changed how I think about what I want to build.   My advice? If you get an offer to exchange, JUST GO.       "The value of an exchange goes beyond academics; it is an opportunity to develop independence, gain cross-cultural understanding, and discover new perspectives about yourself and the world." Xiaoyi Cui Xiaoyi Cui, Year 3, Psychology   I participated in a semester exchange at the University of Oslo, Norway, last autumn.   This experience contributed significantly to my personal and academic development. Moving to a new country required me to adapt to an unfamiliar educational system, cultural environment, and daily lifestyle. One of the main challenges was building a social network. By actively joining groups such as the student dance union and ballet classes, and attending cultural events like a Christmas celebration with my new friend Barbora, I gradually became more involved and truly began to enjoy my life in Norway.   Performing with the OSI dance group and completing the challenging Trolltunga hike pushed me far beyond my comfort zone. My peers became my teachers and partners, strengthening my resilience and determination — whether it meant nailing the choreography or conquering a trail whose end I could not yet see.   Academically, the University of Oslo emphasised independent learning and critical thinking. This encouraged me to focus more on intellectual curiosity and knowledge exploration rather than solely on grades or career outcomes. I was especially fascinated by a Visual Art special-topic course, in which I explored thalassophobia and thalassophilia and their connections to political and national development. It showed me that art is built not only on the visual but also on cultural, macro-level factors and history.   My advice to fellow HKU students is to embrace uncertainty, stay open-minded, and engage with nature and communities.       "Through overcoming everyday setbacks and stepping outside my comfort zone, I became more resilient, confident, and open-minded." Sabrina Leung Sabrina Leung, Year 4, Translation   I spent a semester on exchange at Stockholm University, Sweden. Looking back, it was one of the most rewarding and eye-opening experiences of my university life.   Academically, I was exposed to a more independent and discussion-based learning style that encouraged me to think critically and explore topics beyond the classroom. Outside of study, I joined a local dance studio, travelled across Europe, and met people from all walks of life. These experiences helped me see the world — and even Hong Kong — from new perspectives.   One of my biggest challenges was adapting to the long Nordic winter and learning to live independently in a completely unfamiliar environment, but I overcame them.   My advice to fellow HKU students: be willing to step out of your comfort zone and start conversations with people from different backgrounds. These interactions often become the most valuable part of the exchange journey.           "As my own exchange comes to an end, I look back on a chapter far richer and more vibrant than I ever could have imagined. I hope your own journey will be just as fulfilling and meaningful, and I wish you all the very best on the road ahead." Oscar Zhang Oscar Zhang, Year 4, Education and Chinese   Last semester, I had the precious opportunity to study at National Taiwan University (NTU) while attending postgraduate courses at National Taiwan Normal University.   My exchange journey began with quiet uncertainty. During my first week in Taipei, unfamiliar routines and a sudden wave of loneliness made me wonder if I truly belonged. But step by step — engaging classes, warm friendships, and weekly service — transformed Taiwan from a foreign place into a second home.   What touched my heart most happened beyond the classroom. Every week, I travelled to Pinglin and Nangang with the Pinglin New Sprout Club and Kind Kind Friends Club to accompany local primary school children. Through the International Companions for Learning (ICL) programme, I shared Cantonese and Hong Kong culture with rural students — first over video calls, and eventually face-to-face. Seeing those bright, familiar faces step out from behind the screen made every journey worthwhile and strengthened my dream of becoming a patient, caring teacher.   At NTU's Asia Night, I shared my love for HKU and Hong Kong with NTU students considering an exchange. That night, I realised that exchange is not just about receiving opportunities but about giving back. Learning later that students were actually inspired by my sharing to come to HKU filled my heart with warmth — it proved that every bit of effort was truly worth it.   My advice to future exchange students is simple: don't judge your journey by the first week. Step beyond your comfort zone, immerse yourself in the community, and reach out. True growth quietly begins the moment you choose to serve and connect.     "I admired the dedication and courage of the students I met to take unconventional paths. Through this experience, I discovered how much I value genuine human connection and learning about different cultures." Virginia Lau   Virginia Lau, Year 4, LLB   During my penultimate year of studying LLB, I had the chance to spend a semester at the University of Liverpool. It was my first time studying abroad, and it turned out to be one of the most fruitful and meaningful experiences of my university life.   One of the biggest challenges was adapting to a new environment on my own. What helped me overcome this was making a group of friends. Even though we came from different backgrounds, I realised many of us shared the same struggles. I took the initiative to organise cultural exchange events, including cook nights and a CNY celebration, which brought everyone closer together. We eventually became close friends who supported each other throughout the exchange.   This exchange deeply influenced my academic and personal goals. Before the exchange, I felt lost and found myself chasing societal expectations rather than what I truly wanted. Conversations with students from around the world made me realise that life has more than one path. I admired their dedication and courage to take unconventional paths, and through this experience I discovered how much I value genuine human connection and learning about different cultures.   My advice to HKU students is to stay open-minded, reach out to people from different countries, and share your culture as openly as you take in theirs. This may become the most valuable part of your exchange.     "That awe has stayed with me, reminding me of the importance of perspective and wonder in both life and dreams." Leo Kwok Leo Kwok, Year 4, Nursing   My exchange semester at the University of Connecticut was transformative. As a Year Three nursing student during the exchange, I stepped outside my healthcare silo to take diverse courses, challenging myself academically and culturally. I experienced homesickness and adapted to a different educational philosophy than in Hong Kong. Living with international peers taught me hard lessons about communication and relationships — some friendships deepened while others unexpectedly fractured.   My proudest moment was seeing the Andromeda Galaxy through UConn's research telescope — two billion stars across 2.5 million light-years.   This experience shaped my goals: I now see how macroeconomics and public policy influence healthcare, and I applied an Industrial-Organisational Psychology concept I had initially dismissed to an HKU research project. Navigating multicultural dorm life, debating policy, and travelling across many states made me more empathetic and culturally aware — essential qualities for a healthcare professional and a human being.   My advice: step outside your comfort zone. Take all knowledge seriously, embrace awkwardness, and be kind to yourself. Difficult days are as valuable as glorious ones. The world is a vast classroom — explore it with an open mind and heart.                       "It is in those moments of discomfort that you will grow the most." Ella Chen Ella Chen, Year 4, Psychology   I spent a transformative semester at the University of British Columbia (UBC) in Vancouver, Canada, last semester. This exchange was not merely an academic exercise, it was a holistic immersion that challenged my preconceptions and shaped who I am today.   My proudest achievements include both academic and personal. Academically, my Marine Ecosystem elective, which is a sharp departure from Psychology, left me feeling lost in unfamiliar terminology. By actively learning, seeking help from peers,and swallowing my pride, I overcame the struggle and developed a genuine appreciation for biodiversity.   Beyond academics, I embraced an active lifestyle to combat the winter blues. I made full use of UBC's excellent fitness centre, participating in drop-in Pilates, Yoga, and Zumba classes. These became fantastic social spaces where I met fellow students who shared an interest in wellness. I also learned to snowboard at Mount Seymour, and though the initial falls were painful, the rush of carving down the mountain was unparalleled. Later, I tackled Whistler with new friends. I hiked Dog Mountain and Eagle Bluff, forging bonds that turned a difficult return trail into a survival adventure.   The journey was filled with growth born from difficulty. Navigating one of the world's most expensive cities taught me disciplined budgeting and the value of a dollar, while the initial loneliness of the campus forced me to step far outside my comfort zone. I learned to initiate conversations, join activities, and build a social network from scratch.   To fellow HKU students, my advice is this: set goals before your journey; journal your life through photos and diaries; be your own friend and embrace solitude; stay open-minded because the experience will not be perfect like a movie; step out of your comfort zone to socialize, but do so smartly; and say "yes" to things that scare you.    Your Adventure Awaits — Take the first step today by exploring our study abroad opportunities. We look forward to your participation!

HKU Partner Day 2026: Celebrating Global Collaboration and Innovation

Thank you for joining us at HKU Partner Day 2026! It was an honor to host over 400 esteemed higher education leaders, institutional partners, and scholars from around the world during this inspiring occasion. Over the course of two memorable days, we celebrated our shared commitment to excellence, collaboration, and innovation. Your presence and partnership are vital to our collective success. We look forward to welcoming you back to HKU in the near future.   Please enjoy this collection of highlights from our event!     One...Two...Three...Cheers! Press Release     If you would like to revisit the event information, please refer to our Partner Day webpage.  

From Hong Kong to Edinburgh: Ngoni’s Adventure of Growth and Discovery

From Hong Kong to Edinburgh: Ngoni’s Adventure of Growth and Discovery As a new semester at HKU begins, Computer Engineering student Ngonidzashe Maposa has also returned to the campus as a transformed individual after an enriching exchange programme at the University of Edinburgh, UK. Today, we are excited to share Ngoni’s inspiring story—an unforgettable tale of adventure, challenge, and personal growth during his semester abroad.   Living the Spirit of Adventure and Courage   Ngoni, now a Year 4 student at HKU, participated in the HKU Worldwide Undergraduate Student Exchange Programme (HKUWW) in 2024-25 at Edinburgh. His decision to apply was driven by HKU’s extensive partnerships with top universities worldwide, as well as his desire to challenge himself by immersing in a new culture and environment. As a non-local student from Zimbabwe, Ngoni exemplifies a fearless spirit by taking a step even further outside his comfort zone to pursue an exchange opportunity. A Transformative Journey   Ngoni described his exchange as “transformative,” reflecting on profound academic and personal changes. He considered that the academic system at Edinburgh differed significantly from HKU’s where lectures were more compressed, requiring him to adapt quickly to a self-directed learning style—indulging in self-study and seeking textbooks and resources independently to clarify concepts. The university’s small-group tutorials, which complemented the shorter lectures, provided him with the opportunities to engage deeply with tutors and peers, fostering critical thinking and active participation.   On a personal level, Ngoni faced the challenges of navigating a new city. From the unpredictable Scottish winter—sunny, rainy, snowy, and windy all in the same day—to the early sunsets that made days feel short, he found ways to embrace the environment and bounce back from difficulties, developing resilience along the way. Achievements and Lessons Learned   Ngoni’s proudest achievement during his exchange was organizing his entire journey himself—from grocery shopping, finding accommodation, to adapting to a new academic and cultural environment. He shared that such experience has strengthened his independence and boosted his confidence in decision-making.   Looking back, Ngoni reflected that he would have approached his exchange with more strategic planning—focusing on quality over quantity when participating in extracurricular activities. While he engaged in various clubs and sport teams, including the Informatics Club, Christian Union, football team, and hockey team, he now recognizes the importance of deepening involvement in select activities.     Roaring Aspirations   Ngoni participated in advanced classes on AI and Machine Learning—areas he is deeply passionate about. Although initially intimidating, as these courses were designed for both undergraduate and master’s students, learning alongside graduate-level peers pushed him to study harder and think more critically. This experience has also inspired him to consider pursuing graduate studies and research in the future, reinforcing his aspirations for continued learning and academic excellence. Edinburgh Scholarship and the Art of Receiving and Giving   Being selected as an Edinburgh Scholar is “incredibly meaningful,” Ngoni shared humbly. The generous scholarship offered by the University of Edinburgh made his dream of studying abroad a reality. While he is deeply honoured by this recognition, he is also reminded of his responsibilities—to work hard and give back to the community in meaningful ways.   Unforgettable Moments – The Weekend at Firbush   Ngoni’s involvement in exclusive activities as an Edinburgh Scholar also marked the highlight of his exchange. With a beaming smile, Ngoni shared his weekend spent at the Firbush retreat in the Scottish countryside with fellow international students through Edinburgh Global’s Scholars Network. During the trip, he ventured into activities he never imagined himself trying—kayaking, mountain biking, and paddleboarding. He also gained a newfound appreciation for his opportunities through stories of strength and resilience shared by peers from Congo, Gaza, and Sudan. Tips for fellow HKU Students   As someone who has “been there,” Ngoni has passionately offered the following tips for fellow HKU students considering or preparing for exchange:   Definitely apply! Embrace the life-changing opportunity of participating in an exchange. Ask for help early. Don’t hesitate to reach out—resources and support are here for you. Get involved from day one. Join activities such as orientation to make new friends and settle in faster. Be intentional. Proactively try new things, reach out to people, and create meaningful experiences. Remember, being in a different place doesn’t automatically make your life better; it’s up to you to make your exchange great and meaningful.     Study Abroad – The World is Yours   Ngoni’s inspiring story showcases the incredible opportunities offered by HKU. Studying abroad isn’t just about academics—it’s about growth, resilience, and making lifelong memories.   Beyond regular semester exchanges, students can also participate in short-term study abroad during Winter or Summer breaks, or in Visiting Programmes, to explore different cultures and gain international experience. A world of exciting opportunities is waiting for you to discover!   The adventure of a lifetime awaits—We look forward to your participation!  

Introducing the Global Classroom – A Variety of Worldwide Short-Term Programmes

Global Classroom We are proudly presenting the launch of the Global Classroom, a platform where HKU students can look for a variety of Worldwide Short-Term Programmes organized by higher education associations and alliances. Regardless of your desires to engage in global learning opportunities while staying at your cozy home, thrillingly flying away, or even both – you will find something that fits into your busy schedule here! At Global Classroom, different programmes with individual features will meet your personal aspirations and needs. In the coming months, we have various exciting opportunities including the hybrid APRU SDG Education for Global Citizenship 2025, the onsite APRU Undergraduate Leaders Programme 2025, and the online U21 Global Citizens.   Upcoming Programmes in a glance APRU SDG Education for Global Citizenship 2025 Key Features: Global Issues, Interactive Lectures and Workshops, Teamwork, One-Week of Onsite Community Engagement, Certificate of Completion Date: June 2 - August 29, 2025 Mode: Hybrid Destination: Thailand or Malaysia Application Deadline: February 21, 2025 Apply Now!   APRU Undergraduate Leaders Programme 2025 Key Features: Global Citizenship, Diplomatic Skills, Seminars, Interactive Workshops, UN Stimulation Models, Cultural Nights, Onsite, Certificate of Completion, Financial Assistance Date: July 20 - August 2, 2025 Mode: Onsite Destination: Chile Application Deadline: March 14, 2025 (extended) Apply Now!   U21 Global Citizens Key Features: Global Citizenship, Professional Networking, Teamwork, Leadership Skills, Online Interactive Workshops, Micro-Credential and Badge of Completion for LinkedIn Profile Date: March 10 to 28, 2025 Mode: Online Application Deadline: March 10, 2025 Apply Now!   Act Now! The Global Classroom page will be updated regularly to bring you information of fun and valuable learning opportunities. What are you waiting for? Browse our Global Classroom page and sign up for the 3 programmes that kick-start our new initiative now!

Professor Ian Holliday Signs a New Undergraduate Exchange Agreement with LSE

HKU has signed a new undergraduate exchange agreement with the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), marking the first bilateral education collaboration between the two universities. The signing ceremony took place during a visit to HKU by Professor Emma McCoy, Vice President and Pro-Vice Chancellor (Teaching) of LSE, where Professor McCoy met with Professor Ian Holliday, Vice-President and Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Teaching and Learning) of HKU.  LSE is a global community of people an ideas in the heart of central London. Founded in 1895 as a specialist social sciences university, LSE ranks 5th on the QS world university rankings by subjects. The new agreement, signifying the universities' shared vision of providing holistic education that transcends borders, will enable students to embark on an enriching study abroad journey overseas for a year. It is also a testament to HKU's commitment in whole person education, and its efforts in providing transformative international experiences for students to empower them with the skills, knowledge, and values needed to thrive in an increasingly globalised world.