Prepare to Study Abroad

Before departure, students should seek pre-approval for credit transfer in accordance with Faculty regulations. They can consult the Head of Department or Departmental Course Selection Adviser for assistance. Students selected for the exchange programme should submit the application form for credit transfer for exchange studies to their Faculty.

To identify suitable courses, students should conduct comprehensive research and compare course offerings between HKU and the host institution. As arrangements can vary, students should remain flexible throughout the process. Saving course materials during the study abroad programme is recommended to facilitate credit transfer. The Faculty will carefully review the materials to determine transferrable courses. The actual transfer of credits occurs after returning to HKU, with the Faculty having the final authority to decide the number of courses and credits transferred toward the degree.

Note that pre-approval and transfer arrangements vary between Faculties. Please refer to the appropriate pages for details. 

As a student participating in an exchange semester, it is important to adhere to the policies and procedures set by your Faculty. One such policy is the requirement to apply for a leave of absence before departure. This means that you must submit a formal application to your Faculty stating your intention to take a break from your studies for the duration of the exchange programme.

When completing the Leave of Absence application, it is important to provide all relevant details of the exchange programme you will be participating in. This includes the name of the programme, the duration of the programme, the location, and any other pertinent information that may be required. Additionally, you may need to attach supporting documents to your application, such as confirmation of acceptance into the exchange programme or a detailed itinerary.

By following these policies and procedures, you can ensure that your leave of absence is granted and that you are able to fully participate in the exchange programme without any academic consequences. It is important to note that failure to apply for a leave of absence may result in penalties or negative impacts on your academic record. Therefore, it is always best to be proactive and ensure that you are following all necessary steps to ensure a successful exchange semester.

When planning for an exchange programme, it is important to note that not every host institution provides on-campus accommodation. As a result, you should be prepared to explore off-campus housing options, or even work on securing your own housing arrangements.

Off-campus housing can come in many forms, including apartments, rental houses, or shared accommodation with other students or locals. Depending on the location and local rental market, finding suitable housing can be a straightforward process or more challenging. As such, it is always advisable to start researching and planning your housing arrangements well in advance of your exchange programme.

Despite the lack of on-campus accommodation, all host institutions will provide assistance to help you find suitable housing. This may come in the form of housing databases, housing fairs, or support from international student offices. These services can be particularly helpful for international students who are unfamiliar with the local rental market or housing regulations.

While it is important to be prepared to find housing off-campus, you can still expect to receive support and guidance from your host institution to ensure that you find proper accommodation. By being proactive and starting your search early, you can help ensure a smooth transition to your new environment.

You are strongly recommended to observe the conditions and refund policy of the flights, accommodation, and quarantine arrangements to have better preparation. You are reminded to keep all related documents such as receipts and transaction records so that you can use them as supporting documents where a refund is necessary.

Extra and unexpected costs may arise upon your arrival at the host country especially in the first month of your stay. It is important to have the most realistic idea of the amount of money you need and prepare for different circumstances. Please conduct comprehensive research and have the best idea of all expected and potential expense items.

Try to get a rough estimate of living costs from the International Office of your host university. You are suggested to get tips from other exchange returnees as well.

Most countries require international students to apply for a valid student visa if they are planning to stay there for more than 90 days. Please check the requirements in detail with your host university or with the relevant consulates in Hong Kong. Please bear in mind that failure to comply with the entry visa requirements may result in delays or even deportation.

Students are reminded to refer to the instructions and website of the host university carefully. Students are also reminded to follow the updates closely of the Immigration Department and Consulate General of the host country since there may be constant changes.

For some study abroad programmes, the host university will require students to provide proof of good health. In this case, students will need to have a medical check-up. If students have received a medical check-up form from their host university, please make an appointment with our University Health Service (UHS) department for a check-up as soon as possible.

In order to protect yourself from infectious diseases endemic in the countries you will study or visit, you may have to get inoculations and vaccinations before going abroad. If you need vaccination, let the doctor know if you have any allergies before receiving it. The other way to protect yourself is to investigate the public hygiene of your host country and make sure the drinking water is safe to drink and the food is clean and cooked before you have your meals while abroad.

The Academic Advising Forum @ Moodle is an excellent platform for students seeking an exchange buddy. The online platform allows students to search for potential exchange buddies and connect with each other. They can post online, send messages, and get to know more about each other's interests. This platform is a great way for students to make new friends and get a head start on their exchange experience.