I.ELITE Scholars - Past Events | HKUST Undergraduate Admissions

Past Events and Activities

Pre-University Program 2026

HKUST has successfully concluded its Pre-University Program 2026. As one of the University’s flagship summer initiatives, the inaugural program attracted over 800 high-achieving secondary school students from 32 countries and regions across six continents, forming one of the University's most globally diverse summer cohorts to date. Through in-depth academic exploration, cross-cultural experiences, and direct interaction with industry leaders, students embarked on a rich and rewarding summer learning journey.

Building on this success, this year's program also proudly welcomed over 50 I.ELITE Scholars. Their active participation enriched the cross-cultural exchange and collaborative spirit across our 16 specialized offerings—ranging from Credit-bearing and Thematic-based Courses to the Summer Bootcamp for Polymath. Together with peers from around the globe, these scholars engaged deeply with HKUST faculty and corporate partners, demonstrating outstanding leadership, interdisciplinary problem-solving, and a commitment to driving positive impact for the future.

Check out the press release and social media posts below!

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Leadership Forum cum Gala Dinner 2026

This summer, HKUST welcomed over 800 outstanding students from 32 countries and regions across six continents for the inaugural HKUST Pre-University Program.

The highlight of the experience was the Leadership Forum cum Gala Dinner, centered on the theme “AI, Humanity and the Future of Leadership.” Students engaged directly with industry leaders from the finance, aviation, entertainment, and technology sectors, diving into crucial cross-cultural conversations around digital transformation, sustainability, and human-centered innovation.

A heartfelt thank you to our phenomenal speakers from Bank of China (Hong Kong), Cathay, Cyberport Hong Kong, Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, and Microsoft Hong Kong. We also extend our deep appreciation to Acer, Deloitte, Ocean Park, Tencent, and all partners who helped us deliver 16 diverse courses spanning AI, entrepreneurship, and life sciences.

🎥 Watch the highlights and relive this inspiring gathering!

Experience Day with AcadeMentor - Luncheon @ HKUST 2026

We are still buzzing from the energy of our recent Experience Day with AcadeMentor - Luncheon @ HKUST held on May 2nd!

It was wonderful to see so many I.ELITE Scholars connecting with our AcadeMentors at UniQue. The "Dialogue with AcadeMentor" sessions provided a rare opportunity for scholars to go beyond the classroom, asking the "real" questions about university life and professional growth in a relaxed, personal setting.

Whether it was sharing experiences over lunch or exploring the campus together during the afternoon tour, the day was a fantastic reminder of the vibrant support network we have here at HKUST. A huge thank you to our AcadeMentors for their time and to our scholars for their thoughtful questions and great conversations!

A Dialogue with AcadeMentor Series

From February to April 2026, the HKUST I.ELITE Scholars Program hosted a series of inspiring virtual sessions titled "A Dialogue with AcadeMentor." These exclusive gatherings provided a unique platform for scholars to connect with our distinguished AcadeMentors, including Hanyah, Hashir, Sharon, Janson, Evelyne, Curtis, Haley and Uma.

Our mentors opened up about their personal journeys—from the pivotal decision to join HKUST to the raw reality of balancing university joys with academic hurdles. These weren't just lectures; they were candid conversations filled with "insider" strategies for navigating complex academic pathways and career planning.

The vibrant Q&A segments sparked meaningful exchanges, leaving our scholars with the strategic insights and confidence needed to elevate their future success. Thank you to everyone who participated and contributed to these high-energy dialogues. We look forward to seeing how you apply these takeaways to your own remarkable journeys!

Experience Day with AcadeMentor - USTouch Program 2026

On March 7, we welcomed our I.ELITE Scholars for an unforgettable Experience Day with AcadeMentor - USTouch Program 2026! This action-packed Saturday gave participants an exclusive taste of university life at HKUST.

The morning kicked off with high energy as teams explored iconic spots and hidden campus corners, followed up by an exciting Kahoot Game. It was incredible to witness everyone collaborating and solving clues together.

In the afternoon, the excitement continued at Whitehead (白石) for a relaxing BBQ. Scholars and mentors connected on a personal level over great food and conversations, forging meaningful bonds that strengthen our vibrant I.ELITE community.

Thank you to everyone who joined us to explore, connect, and make this day a massive success. Check out the event photos below, and stay tuned for more exciting I.ELITE activities coming your way!

STEAM DAY for I.ELITE Scholars of HKUST

HKUST welcomed students and families on Jan 24, 2026 to an exciting half-day STEAM Day filled with hands‑on discovery and interactive exploration. Participants joined engaging workshops, toured cutting‑edge laboratories, and enjoyed a variety of STEAM game booths, project showcases, and DIY activities. University student teams demonstrated their robots, and visitors experienced a taste of STEAM competition challenges. It was a vibrant day of creativity, innovation, and inspiration for future young innovators.

AI Inside-Out: Exploring an AI-Powered Game World

Date: August 4 – August 8, 2025 (5 days)
Location: HKUST Campus

Our 5-day summer program was held in August for high school students at the HKUST Campus. Participants designed, tested, and refined AI‑driven game elements while gaining a behind‑the‑scenes understanding of how machine learning powers modern interactive experiences.

The program blended technical exploration with imaginative problem‑solving, giving students a fun and engaging introduction to the future of AI‑enhanced digital worlds.

This program will be held again in July 2026, and I.ELITE Scholars will enjoy a discounted rate upon payment.

For more information, please visit here

HKUST Pre-University Summer Polymath Bootcamp 2025

HKUST Summer Bootcamp for Polymath

Date: July 18 – 26, 2025
Location: HKUST Campus

Our Summer Polymath Bootcamp was held to a great success in July 2025 with over 150 students from 13 regions joined HKUST’s nine‑day Polymath Summer Camp, exploring interdisciplinary learning through lectures, lab visits, and a university‑style Capstone Project.

Guided by industry partners, participants developed creative solutions to real‑world challenges—ranging from AI‑powered tools to sustainable park management. Supported by ADEK and joined by students worldwide, the program fostered global exchange, innovation, and an inspiring preview of university life at HKUST.

This event was greatly loved by our I.ELITE Scholars. The bootcamp will be organized again in 2026, and I.ELITE Scholars will enjoy a discounted rate upon payment.

For more information, please visit here

#HKUST Summer Bootcamp for Polymath

HKUST I.ELITE Excursion: Cultural Immerseion Program at HKUST Guangzhou Campus

Excursion: Cultural Immersion Program – HKUST Guangzhou Campus

Date: July 26 - 27, 2025
Duration: 2 days 1 night
Location: HKUST Guangzhou Campus

Students enjoyed a two‑day, one‑night cultural immersion experience at the HKUST Guangzhou Campus, exploring its vibrant academic environment through interactive campus hunts and student engagement activities. The program offered full accommodation, meals, and round‑trip transportation, allowing participants to fully immerse themselves in campus life. It was an enriching journey that connected students with new perspectives, meaningful peer interactions, and a firsthand look at HKUST’s dynamic cross‑campus community.

Highlights: Campus Tour, Student Engagement Activities, and Accommodation at HKUST Guangzhou Campus.

Program Itinerary: Click Here

#Study Abroad Program – HKUST Guangzhou Campus

STEM+E Program

Date: March 1; 22; 29; April 12; 26; May 10; 17; 24 & June 1
Target Audience: DSE Students
Location: HKUST Campus; Cyberport; HKSTP & La Salle College

HKUST proudly supported the STEM+E Competition 2025, a four‑month entrepreneurial journey empowering secondary students to create innovative, sustainability‑focused solutions.

Guided by tech start‑up founders, business professionals, and HKUST student ambassadors, participants learned to apply STEM knowledge to real social challenges, develop business strategies, and pitch their ideas like entrepreneurs. The program offered an inspiring blend of mentorship, hands‑on learning, and cross‑regional collaboration—culminating in the Finale and Prize Presentation Ceremony celebrating the next generation of changemakers.

For more details, please visit the Website

A Dialogue with AcadeMentor - HKUST I.ELITE Scholars Exclusive

A DIALOGUE WITH ACADEMENTOR – Program Insights

Several online sharing sessions were held online on 18 and 31 March 2025 with different focuses.
Different sessions were held according to different schools and majors. Our AcadeMentors shared their University expereince in HKUST with our I.ELITE Scholars such as their academic ambition, residence hall experience, social activities etc.

There will be Dialogue sessions held across Feb and Mar 2026, please stay tuned to the new editions!

#Meet-Up with HKUST Starlight Students – JUPAS Insights

Experience Day with AcadeMentor: Well-Being and Healthy Living

Date: March 1, 2025 (Saturday)
Location: Lamma Island

In March, our I.ELITE Scholars went for a hiking picnic with our fellow AcadeMentors in Lamma Island, during which our I.ELITE Scholars could also get to connect with our AcadeMentors out of the academic scope.

#Experience Day with AcadeMentor: Well-Being and Healthy Living

USTouch Prgram 2025 for I.ELITE Scholars HKUST

Experience Day with AcadeMentor – USTouch Program

Date: February 8, 2025 (Saturday)
Location: HKUST Campus

Our Experience Day with AcadeMentor - USTouch Program 2025 wrapped up with amazing energy and smiles all around! I.ELITE Scholars kicked off the day with an exploration of HKUST’s campus, followed by an action‑packed campus hunt that turned the university into a giant playground. In the afternoon, everyone headed to Whitehead for a relaxed BBQ hangout, where good food, great conversations, and new friendships made the perfect ending to an unforgettable day.

A huge thank‑you to all scholars for bringing such enthusiasm — and to AcadeMentor for creating the perfect mix of learning, fun, and inspiration. Looking forward to seeing everyone again at the USTouch Program 2026.

#Experience Day with AcadeMentor – USTouch Program