Mainland Chinese Students in Hong Kong Universities | Generated by AI
Yes, a mainland Chinese citizen can enroll in a Hong Kong public university to pursue and obtain an undergraduate degree, much like Joshua Wong did at the University of Hong Kong (HKU) in 2014. However, there are key differences in eligibility, application routes, and status compared to local Hong Kong residents like Wong, who applied via the local Joint University Programmes Admissions System (JUPAS) using Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE) results.
Key Eligibility and Process for Mainland Chinese Students
- Student Status: Mainland applicants are classified as non-local (international) students. This means they pay higher tuition fees (typically HK$145,000–HK$182,000 per year for 2025/26, vs. HK$42,100 for locals) and are subject to a government quota. In 2024/25, the quota for non-local undergraduates at publicly funded universities was doubled to about 40% of the local intake, making more spots available.
- Admission Routes:
- Via Gaokao (National Joint College Entrance Examination): Most Hong Kong public universities (including HKU, HKUST, CUHK, CityU, and HKBU) accept Gaokao scores through dedicated “Mainland JEE” or Gaokao admission schemes. Minimum score requirements vary by university and program (e.g., often 550–600+ out of 750 for competitive fields like medicine or business), and selection considers scores, interviews, personal statements, and sometimes extracurriculars. Applications typically open in October–November for the following September intake.
- Via International/Non-JUPAS Qualifications: If not using Gaokao (e.g., for repeaters or those with GCE A-Levels, IB Diploma, SAT/AP, or other global exams), apply directly through each university’s non-JUPAS scheme. Gaokao is not accepted here, but other qualifications are.
- Visa and Residency: Successful applicants receive a student visa/entry permit from Hong Kong Immigration, valid for the program duration. No permanent residency is granted automatically upon graduation, but graduates can apply for the Immigration Arrangements for Non-local Graduates (IANG) visa to stay and work in Hong Kong for up to one year (extendable).
- No Major Restrictions: Despite the 2020 National Security Law and political tensions, admissions for mainland students remain open and competitive, with no blanket bans. Universities emphasize merit-based selection and do not use intermediaries in mainland China for recruitment.
Comparison to Joshua Wong’s Enrollment
| Aspect | Joshua Wong (Local HK Resident) | Mainland Chinese Student (Non-Local) |
|---|---|---|
| Application Route | JUPAS via HKDSE | Gaokao scheme or non-JUPAS (international quals) |
| Tuition Fees | Subsidized (local rate) | Full international rate |
| Quota | No quota for locals | Capped at ~40% of local intake |
| Visa Needed? | No (HK permanent resident) | Yes (student visa/entry permit) |
| Degree Outcome | Full bachelor’s (he suspended studies) | Full bachelor’s upon completion |
Tips for Applying in 2025/26
- Deadlines: Early rounds often close in November 2025; main rounds by January 2026. Check each university’s site.
- Scholarships: Merit-based options like the Belt and Road Scholarship or university-specific awards can cover partial/full fees for top Gaokao scorers.
- Competitiveness: Acceptance rates for non-locals are low (5–15% for popular programs), so strong scores and holistic profiles are essential.
For the latest details, visit individual university admissions pages directly.
HKU International/Non-JUPAS Admissions
CityU Mainland Gaokao Admissions
HKUST Mainland JEE Applicants
CUHK Non-JUPAS Requirements
Hong Kong Education Bureau Non-Local Quota Policy