Global Short-term Programmes

Short-term study abroad programmes provide flexible opportunities for students to immerse in diverse cultures, enhance their academic credentials, and develop global competencies. With shorter durations, lower participations costs, and a wider range of programme locations than traditional semester exchange, these programmes make international education more accessible.

Available Programmes

Check out our Recognized Programmes page to find an opportunity that fits your personal interests and academic goals!

Connect directly with programme representatives and get more insight into these opportunities by joining an Information Session! Check our Events page regularly for details on upcoming sessions.

Support Scheme

The International Affairs Office offers the following benefits to full-time, degree-seeking undergraduate students who register their participation in a recognized programme:

• Consideration for a financial assistance award;
• Coverage through HKU's Group Travel Insurance policy;
  Students are encouraged to arrange additional top-up medical insurance for further coverage and protection.
• Connection with other HKU students attending the same programme.

Registration Procedure

Step 1. Apply directly to the host institution for your intended Global Short-term Programme.

• Different institutions have different application procedures and deadlines. Make sure you complete your application in accordance with the requirements set by the host institution.
• Students wishing to participate in a Specialty Programme must be formally nominated by HKU International Affairs Office before they can apply.

Step 2. Register your participation in a recognized programme through the AY 2025-26 Global Short-term Study Abroad Programme Registration System once admitted.

Students will need the following materials to complete their registration:

• Official HKU transcript (scanned) OR screenshot of cumulative GPA and current current course enrollment from HKU Portal
• Confirmation of admission from host institution/programme (e.g., admission confirmation email, Letter of Acceptance, etc.)
  Note: Both of the above documents must contain your Full Name or UID
• Completed Global Short-term Study Abroad Programmes Terms & Conditions
• Home Faculty confirmation of HKU enrollment status validity (Final-year students only)

Step 3. Enjoy your Short-term Study Abroad Programme!

• IAO will connect students who have registered for the same short-term programme

Step 4. Post-Programme Report & Evaluation

• Upon completion of your Short-term Study Abroad Programme, please submit a programme report and respond to the evaluation questionnaire by the designated deadline. 

Key Dates

Important Notes

• Some programme dates may not align perfectly with HKU's academic calendar and may conflict with HKU's teaching dates. In such cases, it is students' responsibility to ensure that participating in the short-term programme will not disrupt their studies at HKU, and to seek any necessary approvals such as a Leave of Absence from their home Faculty as appropriate.
• Credit transfer matters at HKU are handled by each Faculty individually. Students intending to transfer credit from a short-term programme back to HKU should contact their home Faculty ahead of time for details on the application and approval process.
• Programme format and duration may change from year to year. Please refer to the official programme websites for current information.
• Students in Year 4 or above intending on participating in a summer programme must submit confirmation (i.e., an email or other written proof from their home Faculty) that their student status at HKU will remain valid through the start date of their intended programme in order to be eligible for the benefits of the GSP Support Scheme.
• Unless otherwise noted, short-term programmes are not available on an exchange basis. Students are responsible for paying any and all fees associated with joining these programmes, including but not limited to: tuition, transportation, and accommodation.