To apply for the HKU Incoming Student Exchange Programme, your home institution must have an exchange partnership with HKU. You can check with the exchange office at your home institution for more information. 
Students should be successfully nominated by their home institution and must have completed a minimum of one year of university-level study by the time they begin their exchange at HKU.
 For detailed information, please refer to the <a href="https://intlaffairs.hku.hk/application">Application Procedures</a>.

What are the entry requirements for applying to the HKU exchange programme?

You can be nominated to study at HKU for one or two semesters.

What are the exchange period options in HKU?

Since the financial models between undergraduate programmes and taught postgraduate programmes are different at HKU, taught postgraduate programmes are generally NOT offered to exchange students. It is on a case-by-case basis and subject to the agreement signed between institutions.

Can I enrol in taught postgraduate courses/programmes during my exchange studies at HKU?

If students wish to conduct research under a supervisor, please contact relevant <a href="https://www.hku.hk/publications/faculty-department-unit.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">faculties</a> to make appropriate arrangements.

Can I enrol in research postgraduate programmes during my exchange studies at HKU?

Entry Requirements

You can visit <a href="https://intlaffairs.hku.hk/academic-information" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Key Semester Dates</a> for your reference. For important academic dates, please refer to the <a href="https://aas.hku.hk/important-academic-dates/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Academic Advising and Scholarships Office's website</a>.

What are the semester dates at HKU?

You may refer to the step-by-step <a href="https://intlaffairs.hku.hk/application" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Application Procedures</a>, students are only required to complete online application.

How can I apply for HKU exchange programme?

Please refer to the <a href="https://intlaffairs.hku.hk/application" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Exchange Application Schedule</a> for details. After receiving application invitation, you are suggested to complete your application as soon as possible.
Applications are reviewed and processed on a rolling-basis. Any outstanding supporting documents will cause a severe delay in the assessment of your application. Late applications after the application deadline will NOT be accepted.

What is the application timeline for exchange application?

In general, hard copy documents are not required for your application. You will be notified by our office if you are especially required to submit hard copy.

Do I need to submit any hard copy documents to your office?

Please contact our office at <a href="mailto:exchange@hku.hk">exchange@hku.hk</a> with your full name as stated on your passport.
If your name includes special characters, please provide your transliterated name with roman alphabets that appears in the machine readable lines of your passport.

My full name is incorrect in my online application, what should I do?

Yes, all exchange students are required to select a host faculty during your exchange programme in HKU.
50% of the course load must be chosen from one Faculty (your intended host faculty). It is optional for students to take the remaining credits from other faculties. Common Core courses will not count as part of the fulfillment of the 50% requirement of course enrolment for exchange students.
Except for the Faculty of Business and Economics (FBE), the minimum and maximum course load per semester are 6 and 30 credits respectively. It is optional for students to take the remaining credits from other faculties. However, please ensure that at least 50% belongs to FBE.
Students admitted to Faculty of Law can choose no more than 12 credits of non-law course (i.e. 2 courses) in each semester. For more information, please refer to their <a href="https://www.law.hku.hk/prospective-students/international-exchange-programme-incoming-exchange-visiting-programme/#Course%20Selection" target="_blank" rel="noopener">website</a>.

Will I be admitted to a faculty in my exchange programme?

'Proposed Study at HKU' is only a preliminary course plan for host faculty to review on your application, you are NOT enrolled to those courses. Students are still required to enrol in courses online during course selection period or add/drop period in the beginning of semesters.
Students are recommended to check the course pre-requisites before selecting courses. The approval of courses is on a case-by-case basis and subject to the Faculty's approval. Actual enrolment is subject to class availability, courses offered in the first semester and class schedule. [The information is subject to change without prior notice]

What is Proposed Study at HKU?

Please make sure you have entered course codes correctly and pay attention to the spacing. Instead of using copy and paste function, you are suggested to type course codes in the fields.
If certain course codes are invalid in our system, this means that they are currently unavailable / subject to change.
For course codes with asterisks (*), please be reminded to add one spacing between course code and asterisks, e.g.  ACCT3107 ***.

Why couldn’t I enter certain course codes in the Proposed Study at HKU section?

Course code with *** are only opened to students nominated under faculty-level agreement with Faculty of Business and Economics. Students nominated under University-level agreement are ONLY allowed to take courses without ***. Please check with your home institution on the agreement type before selecting these courses.
If you are nominated under University-level agreement and have selected *** courses, these courses will be removed from your application during assessment without prior notice.

Am I allowed to select courses marked with asterisks (*) in the Faculty of Business and Economics?

You may want to explain why you are interested in the exchange programme and why you have chosen HKU as your host university. There is no word limit.

What should I include in my personal statement?

Students are only required to upload their passport copy. Applicants to the Faculty of Law should upload a CV to their application. 
Academic transcripts and <a href="https://intlaffairs.hku.hk/backend/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/HKU_English_Proficiency_Proof_Requirement-1.pdf">English proficiency test results</a> must be uploaded by your home institution before you start the application.

What supporting documents do I need to upload for my online application?

Yes, but please make sure both the transcript and English proficiency proof are official and valid documents.

There is no transcript / English proficiency proof in my online application, can I upload the documents by myself?

You will be notified by email on your application result, the announcement period are as follows:
<ul>
	<li>Fall (Semester 1 / Full Year Intake): Late May – June</li>
	<li>Spring (Semester 2 Intake): Late October – November</li>
</ul>
Please make sure to check your email frequently during the above-mentioned period.

When and how will I receive my application result?

Step 1: Please renew your passport immediately and ensure that your passport will be ready by the visa application deadline. Otherwise, you may not be granted with a student visa and this will affect your admission to HKU.
Step 2: If your passport is in the process of renewal during application, please complete the online application with your existing passport number. Then, inform the following offices about your passport status:
<ul>
	<li>Email International Affairs Office at <a href="mailto:exchange@hku.hk">exchange@hku.hk</a></li>
	<li>Contact visa office <a href="https://www.studentvisa.hku.hk/contact-us" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a></li>
</ul>
Step 3: After receiving your renewed passport, please send a soft copy of your renewed passport to the above-mentioned offices for our update.

My passport is expired / effective period is invalid while I am completing my application, what should I do?

Exchange Application – Online Application

If English is not your first language, or if the medium of instruction at your home institution is not English, you will need a recognised and valid English language qualification to be admitted to the exchange programme. 
You must provide English test results that meet at least ONE of the <a href="https://admissions.hku.hk/apply/international-qualifications/english-language-requirement#C" target="_blank" rel="noopener">minimum English language requirements</a>.
Please refer to the <a href="https://intlaffairs.hku.hk/application" target="_blank" rel="noopener">entry requirements</a> on our website.

I am not a native English speaker. What should I submit as proof of my English proficiency?

Please seek assistance from your exchange coordinator to prepare and sign the '<a href="https://intlaffairs.hku.hk/backend/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/English_Language_Proficiency_Statement.pdf">English Language Proficiency Statement for Incoming Students</a>' and upload it to your application. Please refer to our <a href="https://intlaffairs.hku.hk/application">Entry Requirements</a> for details. Kindly be reminded that the Faculty of Law has higher English language proficiency requirement.

I am a native English speaker / English is the teaching medium of my home institution, what English proof should I provide?

You should request your home institution to issue an <a href="https://intlaffairs.hku.hk/backend/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/HKU_English_Proficiency_Proof_Requirement-1.pdf">English Statement Letter</a> stating that you are enrolled to a fully English Taught Programme. [Note: Only applicable to non-English taught institutions in which student is enrolled to a programme that is fully taught in English]
Please refer to <a href="https://intlaffairs.hku.hk/application" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Entry Requirements</a> for details.

I am enrolled to fully English taught programme in a non-English taught institution, what should I provide for English proof?

You are required to submit valid <a href="https://intlaffairs.hku.hk/backend/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/HKU_English_Proficiency_Proof_Requirement-1.pdf">English proficiency test results</a> for your application.
Please retake the test if it is expired, you must submit English proficiency test results by the application deadline. Any late or incomplete submission will not be accepted.

What to do if my English proficiency test result is expired?

Unfortunately, your exchange application will not be considered because <a href="https://intlaffairs.hku.hk/backend/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/HKU_English_Proficiency_Proof_Requirement-1.pdf">English proficiency</a> is one of the admission requirements.

What if I am unable to provide an English proficiency proof, or I cannot meet the minimum scores?

Exchange Application – English Proficiency Requirements

Please refer to <a href="https://intlaffairs.hku.hk/academic-information">Academic Information &gt; Course Load</a> for more details.

What is the course load at HKU?

You may refer to <a href="https://intlaffairs.hku.hk/academic-information">Academic Information &gt; Course Information</a>.

What is the credit system of HKU?

50% of the course load must be chosen from one Faculty (your intended host faculty). It is optional for students to take the remaining credits from other faculties. 
Except for the Faculty of Business and Economics (FBE), the minimum and maximum course load per semester are 6 and 30 credits respectively. It is optional for students to take the remaining credits from other faculties. However, please ensure that at least 50% of the coruses are from FBE.
Students admitted to the Faculty of Law can only select up to 12 credits of non-law courses (i.e. two courses) per semester. For more information, please refer to the Faculty's <a style="background-color: #ffffff;" href="https://www.law.hku.hk/international-exchange-programmes/international-exchange-programme-incoming-exchange-visiting-programme/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">website</a>.

Can I take courses from faculties other than my host faculty?

The following programmes/courses are NOT opened to exchange students:
<ul>
	<li>Faculty of Dentistry</li>
	<li>Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine</li>
	<li>BSc (Exercise and Health) Programme</li>
	<li>Most final year project courses provided by all faculties</li>
</ul>

What are the restricted courses/programmes for exchange students?

Please refer to <a href="https://intlaffairs.hku.hk/academic-information">Academic Information &gt; Available Courses Offered by Faculties</a>.

Where can I find the available courses for my proposed study plan?

You should check carefully with your home institution about credit transfer for courses.

How are subjects qualified for credit transfer back to my home institution?

No, course options in your Proposed Study Plan are not guaranteed. Students must enrol in courses online during the Course Selection Period or the Add/Drop Period at the beginning of each semester.
Course approval is determined on a case-by-case basis and is subject to the approval of the respective course-offering faculties/departments. Actual enrolment depends on pre-requisites, class availability, courses offered in the first semester and the class schedule.. [This information is subject to change without prior notice]

I need to take certain courses for my graduation. Will the courses listed in my Proposed Study Plan be guaranteed?

Since enrolment to course is not guaranteed, it is always good to prepare yourself with back-up course plans.
If, for any reason, you must take a particular course, you may consult the course teacher in the teaching department and state your reason(s) for his/her consideration during class selection or add/drop period in the beginning of semesters.

What can I do if I cannot enrol in certain courses?

You can join <a href="https://www.cedars.hku.hk/cope/peer/survival-cantonese" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Survival Cantonese</a>, which is jointly organised by CEDARS-CoPE and the Chinese Language Centre. In this programme, you will practise Cantonese phrases for daily use with local student tutors and have the opportunity to befriend local students.
The School of Chinese offers credit-bearing Chinese courses, including Cantonese courses and Chinese language courses for international students. Please click <a href="https://www.chinese.hku.hk/en/chinese_language_centre/chinese_courses_for_international_undergraduate_students/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a> for more information.

Are there any Chinese language courses available at HKU?

You can visit Common Core's <a href="https://commoncore.hku.hk/">website</a> for more information.

What are Common Core courses?

Yes, you are allowed to take Common Core courses offered exclusively to incoming students. Please refer to <a href="https://commoncore.hku.hk/ccforexchange/">Common Core for Exchange / Visiting Students</a> for details. The enrolment and approval methods are the same as those for regular students, i.e. first-come-first-served during the Course Selection Period and auto-ballot during the Add/Drop Period. For more details, please visit <a href="https://commoncore.hku.hk/cccourseselection/">Common Core Course Selection</a>.
Common Core courses will not count towards fulfiling the 50% course enrolment requirement for incoming students. For more information, please refer to <a href="https://intlaffairs.hku.hk/academic-information">Academic Information &gt; Course Load</a>.

Can exchange students take Common Core courses?

Please visit the websites of corresponding faculties/departments for course details. If it is not available online, please contact respective offices by email to request for course details. 
Websites and contacts of faculties/departments can be found in:
 <a href="https://intlaffairs.hku.hk/academic-information">Academic Information &gt; Available Courses Offered by Faculties</a> or <a href="https://www.hku.hk/faculties/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact of Faculties and their departments</a>.

Where can I find detailed course information for credit transfer application in my home university?

The courses in your Notice of Admission means that you are eligible to take these courses. However, you are still required to enrol in those courses during course selection or add/drop period in the beginning of the semesters.

What do courses stated in my Notice of Admission mean?

Yes, you may change your course selection during course selection or add/drop period. If you have successfully enrolled more than 50% of the courses in another faculty, you may be transferred to this another faculty.

Can I change my host faculty after being accepted to HKU Exchange Programme?

You can enrol in courses during the <a href="https://intlaffairs.hku.hk/academic-information">Add/Drop Period</a>, which typically spans the first two weeks of the semester and begins on the first day of teaching.
Before the Add/Drop Period opens, plan ahead by reviewing course options and timetables. Once the Period starts, act promptly by logging into the HKUPortal to secure your preferred courses. During the Period, you are also welcome to attend classes you are interested in before finalising your enrolment.

There is no Course Selection Period before Semester 2 starts; how and when can I enrol in courses?

Exchange Application – Course Enrolment Matters

No. The HKU Incoming Exchange Application System is completely separate from the housing application system. You must create a new, separate account when submitting your applications for university accommodation.
Please visit <a href="https://housing.cedars.hku.hk/">https://housing.cedars.hku.hk/</a> for details.

Can I use the same account from my incoming exchange application to apply for my housing?

Housing at HKU is managed by <a href="https://housing.cedars.hku.hk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">CEDARS Housing</a>, offering <a href="https://housing.cedars.hku.hk/university-accommodation/residence-options">four main types of housing</a>:
<ul>
	<li>Residential Halls</li>
	<li>Residential Colleges</li>
	<li>Non-hall Housing</li>
	<li>Off-campus Housing (University-rented and Privately Rented)</li>
</ul>
Due to a shortage in housing resources, students are strongly advised to apply for housing as soon as possible. Housing allocation is subject to availability, which is generally higher in the Spring semester than in the Fall semester.

What housing options are available for exchange students?

Housing at HKU is NOT guaranteed for exchange students. Please take this into consideration before applying to HKU exchange programme.

Is housing guaranteed for exchange students?

Please click <a href="http://www.cedars.hku.hk/sections/Accommodation/files/hallcharges.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a> for the housing fees, the fees are adjusted annually in general.

What are the housing fees in HKU?

Please refer to <a href="https://intlaffairs.hku.hk/application" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Housing Application</a> for details.

How to apply for housing in HKU?

You may apply for housing WITHOUT Notice of Admission during application stage.
After receiving your offer, please be reminded to send a soft copy of your signed Notice of Admission to <a href="mailto:cedars.housing@hku.hk">CEDARS Housing </a>for their further processing of your application.

Do I need to submit the Notice of Admission during application?

CEDARS Housing will notify you on the housing results through e-mail.

How will I be notified on the results of my application?

Student who has received offer should send a confirmation email to respective hall manager to accept the offer and indicate your expected check-in date. 
The offer will be withdrawn if no response has been received by deadline.

What is the procedure for accepting my housing offer?

Meal plans are only available for residents of St. John’s College, Ricci Hall and University Hall. Cost details can be viewed <a href="https://www.cedars.hku.hk/sections/Accommodation/files/hallcharges.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.

What is the arrangement for meal plan?

All halls and residential colleges have common rooms and recreational facilities. Each floor has its own pantry and is equipped with a refrigerator, microwave oven, hotplate, water boiler and drinking fountain. Communal bathroom and toilet facilities are provided on each floor. All rooms are air-conditioned and are furnished with a bed and mattress.
Each student is provided with a closet, writing desk with lamp, chair and bookshelf. An individual network point and a shared telephone line are provided in every room in most halls. Coin or smartcard-operated washing and drying machines are also provided in every hall.

What facilities do Hall / Residential College provide?

While you are waiting for your offer (which is NOT guaranteed), you may consider looking for <a href="https://housing.cedars.hku.hk/private-student-living/options-beyond-campus" target="_blank" rel="noopener">privately-rented off-campus accommodation</a>, which is generally more expensive than living in halls. Most landlords prefer long-term tenancies of at least a year.
If you wish to look for privately-rented housing, you are strongly advised to arrive earlier to allow sufficient time for property inspections and rental negotiations. Monthly rental prices typically start from HK$4,000 for a single room and HK$10,000 or more for a small flat, depending on the size, location and conditions of the places (for reference only).

What are my options if I am placed on a waiting list?

Housing Application

<div class="MuiGrid-root MuiGrid-direction-xs-row chatbot-response css-21p5w6">
<div id="chat-bubble-content-chatRoom-1-0">
<div class="">
No. The HKU Incoming Exchange Application System is completely separate from the visa application system. You must create a new, separate account when submitting your applications for a visa.
Please visit <a href="https://studentvisa.hku.hk/">https://studentvisa.hku.hk/</a> for details.
</div>
</div>
</div>

Can I use the same account from my incoming exchange application to apply for my visa?

All students without the right of abode or right to land in Hong Kong must apply for a student visa for educational purposes from the Hong Kong Immigration Department (ImmD). You can visit the <a href="https://www.immd.gov.hk/eng/faq/imm-policy-study.html">ImmD</a> website for more information on the eligibility criteria for a student visa application.

Do I need a student visa?

Students may apply for student visa through Admissions Office's <a href="https://www.studentvisa.hku.hk/">website</a>. Please note that depending on student’s nationality, student’s visa application will go through two different pathways.

How to apply for student visa? What supporting documents do I need to prepare?

Application should be started at least 10 weeks before the semester start date.

When should I start my visa application?

You may refer to <a href="https://intlaffairs.hku.hk/application">Step 4 - Visa Application</a> for details.

What are the visa application procedures?

The Hong Kong Immigration Department requires at least 10 weeks to process visa applications upon receipt of a complete set of application documents, any delayed application will affect your admission to HKU. You are strongly advised to apply for the visa as soon as possible after accepting an offer of the exchange programme.

How long will it take for my visa application to be processed?

The application fee for student visa sponsorship is HK$1,100. The fee is non-refundable under all circumstances. Applicants are required to settle the fee using an online credit card payment platform (Visa, Mastercard or Unionpay).
For enquiries, please <a class="wixui-rich-text__text" style="background-color: #ffffff;" href="https://hku.au1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_e3S0ReuJlB880rs" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">click here</a> to contact the Admissions Office.

Is the application fee for student visa sponsorship refundable?

To secure and proceed with your visa application, you should upload the signed Notice of Admission to the visa application system.

How to submit the Notice of Admission after I have received it?

Visa applications will be forwarded to the Hong Kong Immigration Department (ImmD) for handling. Once student’s visa application is approved by ImmD, the visa / entry permit label is to be collected by the Admissions Office for onward transmission to you.

When will I be receiving my visa / entry permit?

The Hong Kong Immigration Department has replaced the sticker-style label for entry visa / permit with an electronic version of 'Notification Slip for Entry Visa / Permit' ('e-Visa').
You may save a soft copy of the e-Visa on a mobile device or print it on an A4 paper for presenting it to the Immigration Officer together with your valid travel document upon arrival at Hong Kong International Airport. This is to activate your visa while entering Hong Kong.

What should I do with the visa / entry permit?

Some foreign passport holders can visit Hong Kong without a visa. In this case, you may have entered Hong Kong as a tourist.
To activate your student visa, you can exit and re-enter Hong Kong, presenting your visa/entry permit to the Immigration Officer upon re-entry.
After inspection, the officer on duty may grant you entry to Hong Kong as a student. At this point, your student visa status will be validated and HKU can formally enrol you as a student under the laws of Hong Kong.

What should I do if my student visa is not validated?

Visa Application

To plan your arrival, you are strongly encouraged to go through our <a href="https://intlaffairs.hku.hk/arrival-advice">Arrival Advice</a> and the <a href="https://intlaffairs.hku.hk/academic-information" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Key Semester Dates</a>. 
Before arriving at HKU, you are advised to check the earliest housing move-in date of your respective hall.

When am I expected to arrive at HKU?

If you anticipate late arrival at HKU, please inform your host faculty on your expected arrival date.
Before arriving Hong Kong, please complete the Online Master Registration and enrol for courses online during course selection and/or add/drop period.

What can I do If I could not arrive during Registration Week?

Please expect to receive a Welcome Message from our office in late July (Fall semester) or early December (Spring semester). It includes important instructions about student registration procedures and orientation information.

What should I do after accepting the exchange programme offer?

You will receive the 10-digit HKU University Number (student number) and Portal Account details through email in early August (Fall semester) or early January (Spring semester).
After obtaining the information, students must complete Online Master Registration immediately.

When will I receive my HKU student number and email account?

Please refer to the email about Online Master Registration being sent to you in late July (Fall semester) or early December (Spring semester).
No changes can be made after you have submitted the registration. You may contact Academic Support and Examinations Section at <a href="mailto:asoffice@hku.hk">asoffice@hku.hk</a> if you have any questions.

How to complete the Online Master Registration?

If you do not complete the Master Registration, Student Registration Card cannot be issued and you will not be allowed to enrol in any courses.

Why do I need to complete the Online Master Registration?

If you do not have a mobile phone number in Hong Kong, please leave that field blank for now and update it later for receiving any important announcements from HKU.
If you are experiencing technical difficulties, please contact the Information Technology Services at <a href="mailto:ithelp@hku.hk">ithelp@hku.hk</a>.

I am having difficulties with the Online Master Registration. What should I do?

Please refer to the instructions in <a href="https://intlaffairs.hku.hk/arrival-advice">Arrival Advice &gt; Preparation before arriving HKU &gt; Student Registration Procedures</a>.

How to submit Student Registration Card application?

An acknowledgment email will be sent to your HKU email account to inform you of the collection date and venue when your Student Registration Card is ready.
For enquiries, you may contact the Academic Support and Examinations Section at <a href="mailto:regcard@hku.hk">regcard@hku.hk</a>.

When and where to collect my Student Registration Card?

Yes, CEDARS and our office organise orientation activities each semester. You are encouraged to join the orientation to learn more about HKU and our campus, please refer to <a href="https://www.cedars.hku.hk/campuslife/non-local/orientation">here</a> for details.
There are a range of orientation activities to choose from each semester, you may visit <a href="https://www.cedars.hku.hk/campuslife/non-local/orientation">Orientation Activities</a> and <a href="https://w2.cedars.hku.hk/c/nonlocal_calendar/calendar.php" target="_blank" rel="noopener">WoW Calendar</a> for more information.

Are there any orientation activities for exchange students?

Preparation for Registration &amp; Arrival to HKU

The fastest way is to take the <a href="http://www.mtr.com.hk/en/customer/services/airport_express_index.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Airport Express</a> from Hong Kong International Airport to Hong Kong Station, and then take a taxi to your destination. For more transportation options to HKU, click <a href="https://www.estates.hku.hk/campus-information/campus-map-transport/getting-hku" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.
It may be helpful to have the Chinese address of your student residence ready to show the taxi driver.

How can I get to HKU and the student residences?

<a href="http://www.maps.hku.hk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HKU Campus Map</a> and <a href="https://www.estates.hku.hk/download_file/view_inline/675" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sassoon Road Campus</a> could come in handy!

Where can I obtain HKU campus map?

Please visit <a href="https://www.hku.hk/publications/faculty-department-unit.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a> for details.

How can I contact my faculty? Where is my faculty office?

Click <a href="https://aas.hku.hk/studyspace/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a> for classroom abbreviations. Knowing the abbreviations will help you find their locations.

How to find a classroom in HKU?

HKU welcomes students with special education needs (SEN). If students have physical, sensory, mental, learning, developmental disabilities or SEN, they are encouraged to visit <a href="https://www.cedars.hku.hk/ssi/inclusion" target="_blank" rel="noopener">CEDARS Student Support and Inclusion (Diversity and Inclusion)</a>'s page and access the available support services.
CEDARS offers <a href="https://www.cedars.hku.hk/ssi/inclusion/sen-support" target="_blank" rel="noopener">SEN Support</a>, please feel free to contact the team at <a href="mailto:inclusion@hku.hk">inclusion@hku.hk</a> for details.

Are there any services offered to students with special education needs?

Please visit our <a href="https://intlaffairs.hku.hk/arrival-advice" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Arrival Advice</a> for a complete guide to HKU! More information can also be found in CEDARS’ <a href="http://wp2.cedars.hku.hk/nonlocal/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Website for Non-local Students</a>.

Any handy guide in HKU that could be useful for exchange students?

There are various dining options on campus, students may refer to <a href="https://catering.hku.hk/en/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HKU Catering Services</a>. There are many restaurants/cafeterias that offer meals at wide range of prices within walking distance of the campus.

Are there any dining facilities on campus?

No hard copy of official transcript will be mailed to your home institution. You may choose to screen capture the exam results from your HKU Portal and submit to your home institution.
If your home institution does not accept electronic copy of your exam results, please apply for official transcript (only available in hard copy) through the <a href="http://ase.hku.hk/asoffice/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Academic Services Office</a> after the announcement of your exam results.
The above arrangement is applicable to all university-level incoming exchange students.
If you are nominated through faculty/departmental level exchange agreements with HKU, you may check with the corresponding faculty office for transcript arrangement.

How can I obtain HKU official academic transcript? Will it be issued to my home institution?

Like most countries, the HKSAR Government and the University do not provide financial aid to non-local students. It is therefore important for you to plan your budget well and ensure that you will have adequate financial resources to cover all of your expenses during your stay in Hong Kong.

Is there any financial aid for non-local students?

Visit <a href="https://wp2.cedars.hku.hk/nonlocal/2019/06/20/how-to-open-a-bank-account/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a> for detailed information on opening a bank account.
If you live on campus and need proof of your current residential address, please contact your Hall Office directly for assistance. They will be able to help you obtain your proof of residence.

How can I open a bank account in Hong Kong?

Health and travel insurance is optional but highly recommended. Students may arrange insurance at their own cost to meet their needs for the duration of their studies in Hong Kong.
The coverage should include provisions for emergency evacuation, rescuer's expenses and repatriation. If you plan to travel outside Hong Kong, you should make sure that your insurance policy covers those destinations as well.
Registered incoming exchange students are entitled to <a href="http://intraweb.hku.hk/reserved_2/finance/student/insurance.html?v=1501938664460" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HKU Group Travel Insurance</a> (Portal login required to read the details) for travelling from Hong Kong to overseas on activities which are officially arranged by the University.

Do I need health and travel insurance plan for my exchange studies at HKU?

<a href="http://www.uhs.hku.hk/index.php" target="_blank" rel="noopener">University Health Services</a> provides free primary health care to full-time registered students. Certain medications, preventive services and other items are charged at cost. Dental service is also available at a notional charge.
You may refer to the <a href="http://www.uhs.hku.hk/mbs/so.php" target="_blank" rel="noopener">medical benefits for incoming students from overseas</a> for details.

Where can I get medical service on campus?

You may refer to Section 9 Campus Facilities in <a href="https://www.cedars.hku.hk/index.php?route=information/publication">A Glimpse of Student Life @ HKU</a>.

What are the campus facilities in HKU?

You may take reference from <a href="https://intlaffairs.hku.hk/resources">Student Support Services at HKU</a>.

What are the student support services in HKU?

Studying at HKU

All non-local students are bound by the limit of stay stated in their student visa. Staying beyond the allowed period in Hong Kong will be considered as a breach of the immigration regulations.
Please check your student visa and exit Hong Kong before the date stated in your student visa. Some foreign passport holders may enter Hong Kong as a tourist on a visa-free basis. 
If you need to stay in Hong Kong for a longer period, you may exit Hong Kong before your student visa expires and re-enter as a tourist. Please check the websites of the <a href="https://www.immd.gov.hk/eng/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hong Kong Immigration Department</a> or the ministry of foreign affairs of your home country to confirm the visa requirements.

Can I stay behind for a while after I completed my exchange study at HKU?

<a href="http://www.octopus.com.hk/home/en/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Octopus Card</a> is a contactless stored value card that is commonly used in Hong Kong for transportation, convenience shops or even university applications. The card can also be used online with compatible NFC devices. Please visit <a href="https://www.mtr.com.hk/en/customer/tickets/student_travel_scheme_Important_Note.html#01">MTR Student Travel Scheme</a> for more information.

What is Octopus Card?

Please check with your Faculty Office whether you are eligible for an Octopus Card under the <a href="https://www.mtr.com.hk/en/customer/tickets/student_travel_scheme_Important_Note.html#01">MTR Student Travel Scheme</a> / customer service counter staff in the <a href="https://www.mtr.com.hk/en/customer/main/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Mass Transit Railway (MTR)</a> stations.
You may obtain an MTR Student Travel Scheme Application form from your faculty office / customer service counter in MTR stations.

Can I enjoy student discount for Octopus card?

Only students who are going to spend more than 180 days in Hong Kong are eligible to apply for a <a href="https://www.immd.gov.hk/eng/services/hkid.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hong Kong Identity Card</a>.

Do I need an HKID card?

A student visa holder is not permitted to take up any employment in Hong Kong, whether paid or unpaid, during their exchange period. 
For details, please refer to the<a href="http://www.immd.gov.hk/eng/faq/imm-policy-study.html"> Hong Kong Immigration Department</a> website.

Can I take up any employment during my exchange study in Hong Kong?

The majority of Hong Kong’s 7 million people are ethnically Chinese, there is also a large expatriate community.

What is the general nature of the population of Hong Kong?

The official languages include both English and Chinese. While English is commonly used as an official language and is almost always used in business and government dealings, Cantonese is the dialect most often heard in the streets of Hong Kong.
Many people in Hong Kong also speak Mandarin and the number of Mandarin speakers is now on the rise.

What are the official languages in Hong Kong?

Hong Kong experiences a sub-tropical climate with temperate conditions for a significant portion of the year. 
From May to October, it is usually hot and humid with occasional showers and thunderstorms, especially in the morning.
November and December are considered the best months, characterised by pleasant breezes, ample sunshine and comfortable temperatures.
January and February are cloudier with occasional cold fronts and dry winds, and average temperatures range from 10°C to 15°C (40°F–59°F). Winter clothing is needed.
March and April are milder but can be very cool with some fog and light rain.
From May to November, Hong Kong is susceptible to tropical cyclones, with July to September being the most likely months for their occurrence. Severe weather phenomena such as strong winter and summer monsoons, monsoon troughs and thunderstorms with squalls are most frequent from April to September. Waterspouts, hailstorms, snow and tornadoes are rare occurrences in Hong Kong.
For weather information of Hong Kong, please visit <a href="http://www.hko.gov.hk/">Hong Kong Observatory</a> for details.

How is the weather in Hong Kong?

No, the electrical voltage in Hong Kong is 220–240v instead. You can buy small appliances such as hairdryers, curling irons, etc., easily in Hong Kong after you arrive. If you bring your own appliances, make sure they are 220–240v adaptable.

Can I use my 110-120v electrical appliances from other countries?

Please refer to Section 5 Finances in <a href="https://www.cedars.hku.hk/index.php?route=information/publication" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A Glimpse of Student Life @ HKU</a>.

What is the cost of living in Hong Kong?

Please check whether your phone supports the GSM network first and whether it is locked to your original mobile provider since some telecommunications stores may be able to unlock your phone.
As you will stay in Hong Kong for a while, roaming services could be expensive. You are recommended to get a Hong Kong mobile number, either through a prepaid / fixed monthly rate phone card.

Can I use my mobile phone from home in Hong Kong?

Prepaid SIM cards are available in convenience stores, e.g. <a href="https://www.circlek.hk/en/service">Circle K</a> and <a href="https://www.7-eleven.com.hk/en/services/prepaid-sim">7-Eleven</a>. These cards normally cost around HK$200 with a certain amount of airtime. Please pay attention that the cards are normally only valid for 180 days after the last recharge.
SIM card users are required to complete real-name registration before activation. Please click <a href="https://www.ofca.gov.hk/en/consumer_focus/guide/hot_topics/sim_registration/index.html">here</a> for details.

Where can I buy a prepaid SIM card for my mobile phone?

All banks offer ATM services, but they may use different systems (such as the HSBC ATM system and the Jetco system). Check the reverse of your bankcard to confirm this and to avoid additional charges.

FAQ