A guide to studying in Hong Kong
Hong Kong is your broad gateway to learn about both eastern and western cultures, especially those of China, which is a vibrant and cosmopolitan place with many fields, in addition to being a place full of opportunities to enrich your academic life. In this article, we will explain to you about studying in Hong Kong in detail.
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Study in Hong Kong |
Why study in Hong Kong?
World-class educational institutions
Of the 22 domestic degree-granting institutions in Hong Kong, three are ranked in the top 50 educational institutions in the world and three others are in the top 10 in Asia. In 2019, a Times Higher Education survey ranked three universities in the top 100 in the world, in addition to three more in the top 20 modern universities (universities with less than 50 years of founding).
According to the latest Financial Times polls, Hong Kong universities also host some of the best programs business administration in the world.
Groundbreaking scientific research
Hong Kong educational institutions strive to excel in conducting world-class research, focusing on interdisciplinary collaboration between institutions in the field of research in order to create synergies and maximize available resources.
English as the official language
Nearly 90% of Hong Kong's population speaks Cantonese. At first glance, you might think that Chinese is the only official language in Hong Kong. In addition to the Chinese language; English stands side by side as the second official language in the country. The English language is widely used in government, public organizations, and higher education institutions, as well as in the legal, professional and business sectors.
Tuition costs in Hong Kong
The tuition fee to study in Hong Kong for international students varies depending on the level of study and the program chosen. In addition to the tuition fees, the student needs other expenses during his studies, for example course materials required for practical departments, examination fees and graduation fees. The costs of studying in Hong Kong for all programs are similar between different universities, ranging from 18,000 to 30,000 USD.
Living costs in Hong Kong
If you live in student housing or hostels provided by the university, you should consider spending $ 3,900 - $ 6,500 a year in living expenses, including food, entertainment, transportation, and personal items.
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Conditions for studying in Hong Kong
- Students wishing to study at a specific university or college must submit certified copies of transcripts for their previous years of study, in addition to certificates of the minimum qualifications required according to the intended educational program.
- Translation of previous papers into English by a sworn and approved authority in the home country.
- A document showing high school or university degree grades adjusted according to Hong Kong education standards (you can find out by contacting the college or university you wish to study at).
- Submit translated and certified copies of the birth certificate and medical reports indicating the diseases he suffers from, in addition to the vaccinations obtained during your previous years.
- Provide a certificate in TOEFL or IELTS English, in which the minimum standards for admission are met.
- For students seeking admission to the Master's program, a minimum of 2-3 years work experience is mandatory. In addition to submitting a detailed CV with a letter of recommendation from the professors of the university in which they studied with their contact information.
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Conditions for student visa to Hong Kong
- Fill out the student visa (study visa) application with the required information.
- A copy of your acceptance letter from a university in Hong Kong, as well as your acceptance letter for your chosen program.
- A copy of the passport in black and white.
- A copy of the identity card.
- A recent passport-sized photo.
- A copy of the highest test or academic result with certificates attached to it.
- A copy of other qualifications such as IELTS or TOEFL (required for applicants whose native language is not English).
- Proof of your financial condition, scholarship funds, bank statements through a bank statement (to prove your ability to bear education and living expenses in Hong Kong, valued at approximately US $ 15,500).
- Evidence of arranging your stay in Hong Kong, or a sponsor's pledge to provide you with housing can also do the trick.
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Are there grants to Hong Kong?
The Hong Kong government offers a number of scholarships and awards to study in post-secondary educational institutions and other public or private organizations, to help non-domestic and foreign students fund their education in the country. Some are only available to foreign international students, while others are awarded on a competitive basis to all students regardless of nationality or residency status.
The government offers special scholarships for notable domestic and non-domestic students to study at eight universities funded by the University Grants Commission, the Hong Kong Academy of Dramatic Art and the Professional Training Board. The scholarship is approximately $ 10,300 USD annually for non-local students.
Residence in Hong Kong
Student housing in Hong Kong
The housing policy for foreign students varies according to the educational institution. For institutions funded by the University Scholarships Committee, accommodation for foreign international undergraduate students is usually provided for at least two years during their study period, and possibly the first two years of study. Some institutions even offer accommodation in student housing for the duration of the study.
Regarding residence in the student housing (university campus), if the student does not choose a single room, he will be forced to share a room with local students or other non-local students of the same sex. On-campus living fees range from 650 to 1800 USD per semester, which varies from university to university.
Due to the high amount of demand for student housing, it is recommended that you arrange your housing as soon as possible if you plan to live on campus.
Accommodation outside the student residence
For students who are unable to secure a room in the dormitory, staying outside it in the private apartments is always an alternative solution, as living expenses off campus are more expensive compared to staying inside.
Expenses for off-campus accommodation range from $ 1,000 to $ 3,000 per month depending on size, location and type of accommodation. Usually places close to campus are difficult to get and are naturally more expensive than those further away. If you want to save money, you can share the house with a few of your college mates.
Can I work while studying?
Being a student you are not permitted to undertake any paid or unpaid work in Hong Kong during your studies period. However, there are a number of exceptions to allow non-local students to have practical experience in their field of study which are as follows:
training period
Foreign international students in full-time approved study programs at the university and whose study period is not less than one academic year, they are allowed to follow some curriculum-related training courses to gain the necessary experience for a maximum of three months.
Foreign students who are enrolled in local study programs with a study period of no less than two academic years and which include full time may apply for a mandatory internship, as it is organized and approved by the universities they enroll in for a maximum period of six months.
Part-time jobs on campus and during the summer
Non-local
students (excluding exchange students) for accredited full-time local programs
whose study period is no less than one academic year, can work part-time on campus
for no more than 20 hours per week throughout the year. addition
To work during the summer months from June 1 to August 31 without any limit or
conditions to be mentioned regarding working hours and type.
Leisure activities in Hong Kong
Lyon Rock Country Park
Embrace Hong Kong's wonderful outdoor nature and hike over Lion Rock (495 meters) with paved and relaxing paths. When you reach the summit you will enjoy stunning views of the city of "Cologne".
Victoria Peak
This landmark is located on the highest peak on Hong Kong Island and features stunning views that can be seen from the lookout points. You can see lots of beautiful blue skyscrapers and waterways in the city, but during the day you will also be able to see the green hills of the distant territories.
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Happy Canyon
Every Wednesday in September and July, thousands of Hong Kong residents flock to the Grand Canyon Racecourse to watch the horse race. Visitors enjoy the fun attractions, cheap tickets, and most delicious food and drink options.
Is Hong Kong safe? What about the health system?
Hong Kong has a low crime rate, but despite this, the country suffers from some light theft and pickpocketing from time to time, in addition to people who sell counterfeit branded goods.
Do not panic when you are sick, as Hong Kong has a world-famous healthcare system, providing emergency medical services as well as outpatient clinics around the clock. Here are some links in case you need any public or private medical service during your stay in Hong Kong.
- Department of Health
- Hospitals & Institutions
- List of Registered Private Hospitals
- List of Registered Dentists
- List of Registered Doctors
Although health insurance is not compulsory for students, some educational institutions may require you to have insurance documents proving your coverage of accidents, hospitalizations and medical expenses before you begin your studies in Hong Kong.
In any case, students are strongly advised to make their own insurance arrangements throughout their studies in Hong Kong. In the event that you plan to travel outside of Hong Kong, you should ensure that your current insurance policy covers your destination. Otherwise, it is recommended that you purchase additional travel insurance before your trip.
Student difficulties in Hong Kong
Native language use
First and foremost, Chinese students tend to use their native language more than students from other countries, due to the fact that English and Chinese come from two completely different language systems, one European and the other Chinese. This makes it very difficult for Chinese students to adapt to speaking English, and thus it is usually difficult for them to communicate with foreign students in English.
Learn through intensive reading
The education system in Hong Kong is ranked high and distinguished in the world although there are some obvious difficulties. According to some experts, some schools and universities put an excessive emphasis on reading material, which requires students to memorize information verbatim. Moreover, the dry conservation teaching method does not allow for lively and effective discussions between students or the promotion of critical thinking, which in turn worries students about following this style of learning. As intensive reading and negative acceptance of educational materials will limit their path to creativity and excel.
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