Information for applicants

HKUST Pre-University Program

For Year 11 / Grade 10 / Form 4 or above

The HKUST Pre-University Program offers high school students a broad introduction to academic exploration and campus experiences through a variety of engaging opportunities.

Definition of Non-local Students

You are considered as a non-local student if you are a holder of the following documents issued by the Immigration Department of the HKSAR:

a student visa/entry permit; or
a visa/entry permit under the Immigration Arrangement for Non-local Graduates; or
a dependant visa/entry permit who were 18 years old or above when they were issued with such visa/entry permit by the Director of Immigration.

Please click here for definitions of local and non-local students.

Local and non-local applicants are considered under various admissions schemes and are required to pay different rates of tuition fee. Applicants are required to provide identity documents to support their claim of local / non-local status during the admissions process.

Any changes in local / non-local status after submission of application will lead to a corresponding change in the admissions scheme. Offers made under the initial admissions scheme may be revoked, and applicants will be re-considered in competition with other eligible applicants under the appropriate admissions scheme.

entry-requirements

Entry Requirements

fee-and-payment

Fee & Payment

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Residential Package

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Visa

1 notes

Important Notes for Students

Pre-arrival Information

Eligibility

The HKUST Pre-University Program 2026 offers various programs for secondary school students, including local and international students in Year 11, Grade 10, or Form 4 and above from around the world, as well as students eligible to study in Hong Kong. Key eligibility requirements include being 15 years or older for residential options and meeting the English language requirements.

English Language Proficiency

If you have been taught in English, your high school transcript/certificate must show that the language of instruction was English. In this case, you are not required to submit separate evidence of language proficiency.

Students whose first language or teaching medium in the home institution is NOT English are required to submit one of the following test types to prove your mastery of the English Language:

IELTS score of 6.0 (or equivalent)
TOEFL internet-based test: 60 TOEIC: 570-680
International Baccalaureate: Higher Level 4/ Standard Level 5
Cambridge Advanced Certificate: Grade C or B2 certificate
Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English: Grade C or C1 certificate
Cambridge First Certificate: Grade C
Duolingo English Test: 125 overall

Offer Announcement

Admission results will be announced on a rolling basis. The earlier you apply, the better your chance of securing a place in the programs.

Next Steps:

We will review your application and inform you of the outcome after the assessment process.
If your application is successful, we will request payment of the program fee.
Once we receive your payment before the payment deadline, your place in the program will be confirmed.
The program itinerary will be shared with admitted students one month before the program starts.

Portrait Rights: By participating in the program, you agree that any photographs taken of you during the event may be used by HKUST for promotional and publicity purposes. This includes, but is not limited to, use on the university's website, social media, and other marketing materials. If you do not wish for your photo to be used, please inform us in writing prior to the event.

Application Fee

For the first program and any subsequent application is HKD 250 per program.
- The application fee is a non-refundable and non-transferable.
- Students may enrol in more than one programs as long as it does not cause any scheduling conflict.
- Once you have paid the HKD 250 application fee and submitted all required materials, your application will proceed to review. You will receive an update via email regarding the outcome of your application—whether it is successful or declined.

Program Fee

The fees for each program vary. Please refer to the individual program for detailed information.
Offers will be issued on a rolling basis, for details, please refer to the respective program webpage. The successful application will be notified and asked to confirm acceptance by settling the program fee within 3-5 calendar days. We will confirm your place only after you have paid in full.

Note

*Fees are non-refundable after your acceptance of the offer.
*Payments must be settled online via credit card or ePayment.

Payment Methods - Online credit card or e-payment (Application fee/Program fee)

HKUST Pre-University Program accepts MasterCard, Visa, Union Pay, WeChat Pay, AlipayHK, Alipay, PayMe and FPS.
If the credit card information you submit is incomplete or if the credit card payment is unsuccessful, you will not be registered in your course(s). To avoid a delay in the admission process, please make sure your credit card's daily charge limit is sufficient for the total course payment.
HKUST Pre-University Program is not responsible for fluctuations in international exchange rates or interest charges due to the timing of credit card charges or refunds.
A small number of programs may have specific payment requirements for program fees. If your application is successful you will receive relevant instructions on fee payment.

Eligibility

For Secondary School Students ONLY:

Only students aged 16 or above (on or before the check-in date) may stay in HKUST-managed residential halls during the program period.
Students under the age of 16 are not eligible for HKUST-managed residential halls and should arrange hotel accommodation and/or stay with family members during the program period. Students must be accompanied by a guardian aged 18 or above when checking into a hotel.

Accommodation Fee

An optional residential package is available for students enrolling in credit‑bearing courses and thematic‑based programs.
The accommodation fee is non-transferable, non-refundable, non-exchangeable and not for re-sale.

Provision in Each Room

All bedrooms are fully furnished and air-conditioned. A chair, a desk, a wardrobe and a bed with mattress are provided in the room for each resident. Residents are recommended to bring jackets or extra clothes in case it is too cold in the room. Each resident will be provided with a pillow, a pillowcase, a bed sheet and a blanket.

Please take good care of the furniture and items provided in your room. A fixed penalty of HK$500 will be levied on residents who damaged and/or tampered with any fixture, fittings or furniture. In addition, residents involved will be responsible to bear the cost of making good of the damaged and/or tampered with item(s).

Access to Hall

Entry to and exit from the Hall MUST BE made through the main entrance ONLY except during emergencies when the nearest exits should be used. The Residential / On-campus Coordinator will inform participants regarding the method of gaining access to hall.

Participants are required to show their identity upon entry into the Hall premises. In addition, a security guard will station at the entrance of the Hall from 3:30pm to 7:30am daily. Please do not feel offended if proof of identity is requested in the Hall by members of Hall staff / security guard. Please also be reminded to safeguard your belongings and lock the door whenever you are not in the room, even for a short period of time.

Common Rooms

Common Rooms with pantries are located on each floor. They are equipped with basic home furniture, TVs, refrigerators, hot and cold drinking fountains and microwave ovens for residents' use.

Activities Not Allowed

Smoking is strictly prohibited throughout the entire University campus, including all areas inside the Hall.
Alcohol is not allowed in any form - no consumption and no storage in all Halls.
Cooking is not permitted anywhere inside the Hall for safety reasons.

Notes

Further details about accommodation arrangements will be provided once your program offer is confirmed.
Reservations are processed on a first-come, first-served basis.
Priority will be given to non-local students.
In case of any dispute, the decision of the HKUST Pre-University Program shall be final.

	6 Nights Package	9 Nights Package
Date	July 19-25, 2026	July 19-28, 2026
Check-in	July 19, 2026
Check-out	July 25, 2026	July 28, 2026
Fee	HKD $2,400	HKD $3,600
Hall	On campus Residential
Bathroom	Shared bathroom
Housekeeping	Each resident will be provided with pillow, pillowcase, bedsheet and blanket The Hall DOES NOT provide personal accessories such as towels, suits, toothpaste, toothbrush, slippers, shower gel and cups
Application Method	Information will be sent to students via email

Student Visa Application

Non-local students without the right of abode or right to land in Hong Kong must apply for a student visa or entry permit to study.
The fee for the Study visa application is HKD 1000 and is non-refundable under any circumstances. Please use a credit card to complete the payment here.
For details on the student visa application process, please check the visa instructions - Notes for Visa Application (Pre-University Programs).
Once HKUST receives your documents, you will receive an email notification.

Attendance

You must be available for the entire program duration.
A 20% absence allowance is permitted for emergencies or sick leave, provided there is valid documentation. Students are responsible for notifying the program coordinator in advance of any expected absences, no exceptions will be made without prior approval. Punctuality is expected, and unexcused lateness may count as an absence. Students with less than 80% attendance or without valid reasons for absences will not receive the Certificate of Attendance. Some programs will have specific attendance requirements, please refer to the program page for details.

Completion of Certification

Students will receive a Certificate of Attendance upon completion of the program.
Applicants who confirm their attendance but fail to attend will be ineligible to apply for future events.

Leave of Absence

Students who need to be absent from scheduled classes or activities must have their parents/guardians submit an online leave request form. All absences, including sick leaves, must be reported in advance.
Failure to do so will be considered discontinuation of the program, and no certification, statement of results, or refund of fees will be provided.

Bad Weather Arrangement

Arrangement of Class under weather warning signals

Amber/Red Rainstorm Warning, or Typhoon Signal No. 1 or 3	All scheduled (including online) classes will be held as usual.
Black Rainstorm Warning	All (including online) classes that have yet to start will normally be cancelled, but individual instructors may arrange for online classes (during scheduled class time or later), which will be recorded for those unable to access them at the time. Instructors are responsible for informing students about the class arrangement. Classes that have already started will normally continue until the end. Stay indoors wherever you are and do not leave until the warning is cancelled and the conditions are safe.
Typhoon Signal No. 8 is to be issued within 2 hours (pre-No. 8)	All (including online) classes that have yet to start will normally be cancelled, but individual instructors may arrange for online classes (during scheduled class time or later), which will be recorded for those unable to access them at the time. Instructors are responsible for informing students about the class arrangement. Classes that have already started will normally continue until the end, after which you should return to your place of residence if traffic and weather conditions permit within the 2-hour period. When the Typhoon Signal No. 8 has been issued, stay indoors wherever you are and do not leave until the warning is cancelled and the conditions are safe.
“Extreme Conditions” after Super Typhoons	All (including online) classes will normally be cancelled, but individual instructors may arrange for online classes (during scheduled class time or later), which will be recorded for those unable to access them at the time. Instructors are responsible for informing students about the class arrangement. Stay indoors wherever you are and do not leave until the warning is cancelled and the conditions are safe.
Typhoon Signal No. 8 or above, Black Rainstorm Warning or “Extreme Conditions” Announcement is still in force at 4 pm	All (including online) evening classes will normally be cancelled, but individual instructors may arrange for online classes (during scheduled class time or later), which will be recorded for those unable to access them at the time. Instructors are responsible for informing students about the class arrangement.

Resumption of Classes

If Typhoon Signal No. 8, Black Rainstorm Warning or “Extreme Conditions” Announcement is cancelled

At or before 6:30 am	Classes (including online) starting from 8:30 am and onwards will be held as scheduled.
At or before 12 noon	Classes (including online) starting from 2 pm and onwards will be held as scheduled, while classes (including online) starting before 2 pm will normally be cancelled.
Before 4 pm	Classes (including online) starting from 6 pm and onwards will be held as scheduled, while classes (including online) starting before 6 pm will normally be cancelled.

Welcome to HKUST Pre-University Program

We’re delighted to welcome you to the HKUST Pre‑University Program, where your academic journey as a future innovator begins! This page serves as your essential guide before you arrive on campus — helping you prepare smoothly for a rewarding and enjoyable experience at HKUST.

Weather in Hong Kong

Hong Kong is classified as subtropical. The weather in summer in Hong Kong is often hot, humid, and sunny. Yet June to August is also the typhoon season, so you might experience showers and thunderstorms at times. The average temperature ranges from 26°C to 33°C (78.8°F to 87.8°F). Temperature can exceed 33°C and high humidity levels can make it feel even hotter.

However, you are recommended to bring a light windbreaker or cardigan with you as the indoor air-conditioned temperature is around 20°C. For detailed weather updates, please visit the Hong Kong Observatory website: http://www.hko.gov.hk

Pre‑Departure Checklist

Travel Documents

Valid passport/travel documents with student visa/entry permit (if applicable)
Hard copy of your passport and ID card (if applicable)
Flight tickets (print or digital copy)
Insurance Document

Electronics

Learning devices: Laptop and/or Tablet
Mobile device with local SIM card
Travel adapter ( Type G: 3-pronged plug) – no loan service available
Chargers for electronic devices and power bank

Finances

Sufficient cash (HKD)
ATM cards (UnionPay, VISA, MasterCard, American Express)

Clothing & Personal Items (for students staying on campus)

At least one set of formal or business attire (suit/blazer + dress shoes)
Light windbreaker jacket or light-colored long-sleeved t-shirt for indoor classes and outdoor activities
One pair of slippers
One pair of comfortable sneakers
Sleepwear
Towel and toiletries (shampoo, toothbrush, etc)
Umbrella
Reusable water bottle (water dispensers available on campus)
Sunscreen
Mosquito repellent
Travel medical pack (if necessary)

Travel Insurance

In any case, for non-local students travel to Hong Kong, you are strongly recommended to make your own insurance arrangements throughout the entire period of your studies in Hong Kong. Students will be responsible for their own medical and dental costs during the period of the program. If you have to travel outside Hong Kong, you should make sure that your existing insurance policy covers your destination. Otherwise, you are advised to buy additional travel insurance before your trip.

Please check with your insurance agent and ensure that the scheme covers travel /flight delays, theft of personal belongings and medical and health cover for an injury or sudden illness abroad for the program period.

Dining & Food Options

At HKUST, there are various dining options to suit different tastes. There are also Halal food and vegetarian choices on Campus. Most often a meal per person on campus costs around HKD 40 - HKD 80. For more information on these dining choices, please visit: https://cso.hkust.edu.hk/locations/restaurants.

Please note that the opening hours in summer may vary. To check opening hours updates, please visit: Special Opening Hours | Campus Services Office.

Alternatively, you may also choose to dine outside of campus. For most restaurants, the spending per person for a meal varies from around HKD 70 - HKD 200. Please also note that some restaurants charge an extra 10% service fee. For more details regarding cost of living in Hong Kong, simply visit: Cost of Living - Study in Hong Kong.

Location of Water Fountains

In HKUST, there are more than 150 water drinking fountains around campus. The locations can be found here: HKUST_drinking_fountains_location_02_1.pdf

Wi-Fi and Data

You may connect to Wi-Fi HK on campus for free Wi-Fi service by simply choosing "Wi-Fi.HK via HKUST". For more details please visit: Wi-Fi Connection for HKUST Guests | Information Technology Services Office.

You may also connect to free Wi-Fi services in most public places in Hong Kong via this channel. For cell phone data, you may apply for data roaming or purchase Hong Kong SIM card before/after departure. Pre-paid SIM cards are available for purchase at most supermarkets and convenience stores (Circle K, 7-11) in Hong Kong.

On-Campus Banking

On campus you can also find the operating banks and ATMs:

Bank of China
- Location: G/F at the Piazza
- Opening Hours: Monday – Friday: 09:00am – 5:00pm | Saturday, Sunday & Public Holiday: Closed
Hang Seng Bank
- Location: G/F at the Piazza
- Opening Hours: Monday – Friday: 09:00am – 5:00pm | Saturday, Sunday & Public Holiday: Closed
24-Hour ATM services [Bank of China & Hang Seng Bank]
- Entrance of banks
- G/F of the LSK building (near room G003)
- Near Computer Barn B, 1/F (lift 17-18)

ATMs are widespread in Hong Kong. Most terminals are linked to international money systems, including Cirrus, Maestro, Plus, Visa Electron, UnionPay, as well as the Visa and MasterCard credit systems. However, you should note that there are ATM systems in Hong Kong; one is linked to the Bank of China and its partners, and the other used by HSBC and other international banks. You may be charged a fee if you use an ATM machine operating on a system not linked to your bank.

Electronic payments such as WeChat Pay, Alipay, Visa and MasterCard, Apple Pay, and Octopus are widely accepted by most merchants in Hong Kong. Almost all canteens and restaurants on campus, as well as our supermarket and 7-11 convenient store accept the aforementioned payment methods. So, don't worry if you forget to bring enough cash as most payments do not require cash. However, please note that you need cash for most Taxi rides.

Octopus Card

The Octopus Card is essential for riding public transportation (e.g., Ferries, Trains, Buses) and paying for food and other items in local shops. It is recommended to obtain one upon arrival, ideally with HKD 100 - HKD 200 preloaded. However, MTR, Buses, Ferries, and even very few minibuses accept Alipay, WeChat Pay and/or VISA cards as the payment method. So don't worry too much if you do not have an octopus card.

Souvenir Shop

Official HKUST mementos are available at the University’s Souvenir Shop. The store features a wide range of exclusive merchandise, with popular items including gifts, post cards, bags and a selection of HKUST apparels, and some of the innovative research products developed by our professors and alumni.

Located conveniently in the heart of the Piazza, right next to the Mr & Mrs Ho Ting Sik Visitor Information Center, please check the website for location and opening hours: https://souvenir.hkust.edu.hk/index.php?route=information/ourlocation

These items make perfect souvenirs for yourself or memorable gifts for family and friends!

Travel to Campus

From Hong Kong International Airport (HKG)

By Airport Express

1. Take the Airport Express to the Hong Kong MTR Station (HKD 130)

2. Walk to the Central MTR Station via the underground passage link and take the Island Line towards Chai Wan and get off at the North Point MTR Station.

3. Transfer to the Tseung Kwan O Line towards Po Lam and get off at the Hang Hau MTR Station.

4. Locate Exit B1 and proceed to the Hang Hau Station Public Transport Interchange on the left of the exit.

5. Proceed to HKUST via Taxi or Bus 91M located at the Hang Hau Station Public Transport Interchange. Tell the driver to go to “HKUST North Gate” or get off the 91M bus at “HKUST (South)” Bus Station respectively.

By Bus

1. Take the Citybus A29 from the Hong Kong International Airport, and get off at the “Nan Fung Plaza, Pui Shing Road, Hang Hau Station” Station.

2. Locate the Hang Hau Station Public Transport Interchange across the road near Hang Hau MTR Station Exit B1.

3. Proceed to HKUST via Taxi or Bus 91M located at the Hang Hau Station Public Transport Interchange. Tell the driver to go to “HKUST North Gate” or get off the 91M bus at “HKUST (South)” Bus Station respectively.

By Taxi

Taxis are readily available from the airport. Please choose the red taxis and inform the driver that you would like to go to “HKUST North Gate”. This is the most convenient option (approx. HKD 350 to HKD 400). Cash is the primary payment method.

From High-Speed Rail West Kowloon Station

By MTR

1. Locate Exit A or Exit N and proceed to the Austin MTR Station

2. Take the Tuen Ma Line towards Wu Kai Sha and get off at the Diamond Hill MTR station.

3. Locate Exit C2 at the Diamond Hill MTR Station and turn left to proceed to the Diamond Hill Public Transport Interchange. Look for KMB Double Decker Bus 91 or 91M.

4. Get on 91/91M, get off the bus when it reaches “HKUST (North)” Station.

By Taxi

Taxis are readily available from the Rail Station. Please choose the red taxis and inform the driver that you would like to go to “HKUST North Gate”. This is the most convenient option (approx. HKD 170 to HKD 220). Cash is the primary payment method.

From Lo Wu/ Lok Ma Chau Border Rail Link

By MTR

1. Take the East Rail Line towards Admiralty and get off at the Tai Wai MTR Station. Transfer to the Tuen Ma Line towards Tuen Mun, and get off at the Diamond Hill MTR Station.

2. Locate Exit C2 at the Diamond Hill MTR Station and turn left to proceed to the Diamond Hill Public Transport Interchange. Look for KMB Double Decker Bus 91 or 91M.

3. Get on 91/91M, get off the bus when it reaches “HKUST (North)” Station.

By Taxi

Taxis are readily available from the border. Please choose the red taxis and inform the driver that you would like to go to “HKUST North Gate”. This is the most convenient option (approx. HKD 350 to HKD 400). Cash is the primary payment method.

From Hong Kong - Zhuhai - Macao Bridge Hong Kong Port

By Bus

1. Take the Citybus A29 from the Hong Kong International Airport, and get off at the “Nan Fung Plaza, Pui Shing Road, Hang Hau Station” Station.

2. Locate the Hang Hau Station Public Transport Interchange across the road near Hang Hau MTR Station Exit B1.

3. Proceed to HKUST via Taxi or Bus 91M located at the Hang Hau Station Public Transport Interchange, tell the driver to go to “HKUST North Gate” or get off the 91M bus at “HKUST (South)” Bus Station respectively.

By Taxi

Useful Websites and Apps

MTR Mobile: The official app for Hong Kong's MTR services.
Google Maps: Helpful for navigation and understanding local transport options.
Octopus App: Information on the Octopus card, essential for public transport usage in Hong Kong, can top up the physical card from Apple Pay or Bank Account
City Mapper: An excellent app for planning transport routes.
Hong Kong Tourism Board: Explore Hong Kong’s latest events and sightseeing attractions.
Hong Kong Observatory: The official app for weather forecasts.
HKUST Path Advisor: An excellent app for finding locations on the HKUST Campus map.

Emergency Contact

Hong Kong is one of the safest cities in the world. However, you should stay alert and always be aware of your surroundings, especially when you are in a crowded area. Please remain with your group during outings. If in any case you require immediate assistance or are in hazardous situations, please dial the emergency number below.

Emergency Support on campus Enquiry: If you need help on campus, please contact your group leader. Remember to add contact with your group leader upon arrival.

Emergency Services in Hong Kong: Please inform your group leader immediately for the emergency case before dialing 999 for assistance from the Hong Kong Police, Fire Services Department or Ambulance Services in Hong Kong.

Back to home

*Should any disputes arise, the decision made by HKUST will be final.*

The content above is subject to change without notice. Students should regularly check the website and their email for any updates.