Overview
The origins of the University of Hong Kong can be traced back to the Hong Kong College of Medicine for Chinese, founded in 1887 by Ho Kai. It was renamed the Hong Kong College of Medicine in 1907. The college was later incorporated as HKU's medical school in 1911. The University of Hong Kong was founded in 1911. The colony's governor, Sir Frederick Lugard, first proposed in January 1908 to establish a university in Hong Kong to compete with the other Great Powers opening universities in China.
The University is consistently ranked amongst the world's top universities: 11th in QS World University Rankings 2026, 1st in the QS Asia University Rankings 2026, and 33rd in Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026. In recent years, the University was ranked multiple times as the most international University in the world. There are more than 19,000 undergraduate and 23,000 postgraduate students and more than 9,600 academic, academic-related, and administrative staff at the University.
HKU fosters pioneering breakthroughs by collaborating across disciplines, attracting top scholars, and partnering with prestigious institutions worldwide. With 232 professors in the top 1% of scientists and 54 named in the "Highly Cited Researchers 2025", HKU ranks 13th globally for research influence. In the 2024/2025 academic year, scholars published 7,182 research works and received 192 awards. Since 1998, HKU has been granted 1,577 patents, showcasing its strong commitment to innovation.
HKU's diverse student body comprises students from 97 countries and regions, with over 55% being non-local students. The university's main campus in Pokfulam — on the western edge of Hong Kong Island overlooking Victoria Harbour — spans a hillside of historic colonial-era and modern buildings, connected by the iconic covered walkway. HKU also operates the Kadoorie Institute in the New Territories, the medical campus at Queen Mary Hospital in Pok Fu Lam, and the Sassoon Road Campus.
The University of Hong Kong has educated many notable alumni in many varied fields. Among them is Sun Yat-sen, the founder of the Republic of China, who was a graduate of the Hong Kong College of Medicine for Chinese — the predecessor of HKU. Over 40 principal officials, permanent secretaries, Executive Council and Legislative Council members of the Hong Kong SAR Government are HKU graduates. Other distinguished alumni include Hong Kong Chief Executives Carrie Lam and Donald Tsang, prominent politicians Anson Chan and Regina Ip, and leading figures across medicine, law, business, and the arts across Asia and globally.
| ~35–40% Acceptance Rate | 42,000+ Students | 97 Countries Represented | #11 QS 2026 / #1 Asia / Most International University — THE 2023 |
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Ranking
HKU is ranked 11th in QS World University Rankings 2026 — #1 in Asia — and 33rd in Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026. HKU is ranked 49th in the THE World Reputation Rankings 2025. HKU was ranked #69 worldwide in the Academic Ranking of World Universities 2024, and #44 worldwide in US News 2025–2026.
HKU graduates ranked 47th worldwide in the Times Higher Education Global University Employability Ranking 2022, and 10th worldwide for graduate employability in Asia. HKU is ranked as the most international university in the world in 2023 by Times Higher Education. In subject rankings, HKU's Dentistry program holds the remarkable distinction of being ranked #1 in the world by QS, making it the only university in Asia to top any global subject ranking.
| Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|
| QS World University Rankings 2026 | #11 Globally / #1 in Asia |
| Times Higher Education 2026 | #33 Globally / #6 in Asia |
| ARWU (Shanghai) 2024 | #69 Globally |
| US News Best Global Universities 2025–26 | #44 Globally |
| THE World Reputation Rankings 2025 | #49 Globally |
| QS — Dentistry (Subject) | #1 Globally |
| QS — Architecture & Built Environment | Top 25 Globally |
| QS — Law (Subject) | Top 25 Globally |
| THE — Most International University in the World | #1 Globally (2023) |
Intakes
HKU operates on a Hong Kong academic calendar with one primary annual intake.
Primary Intake — September — The main intake for all undergraduate and most postgraduate programs.
- University of Hong Kong application deadlines for undergraduate degree programs typically occur in December and January based on the September intake; First Round: application starts in September and ends in late November/December
- Postgraduate programs: rolling admissions beginning September; most programs close February–April for September entry
- Research degrees (MPhil/PhD): rolling admissions year-round; supervisor confirmation recommended before formal application
January Intake — Available for select taught postgraduate programs only; verify program availability on hku.hk.
Important for Indian Students:
- Application fee: HKD $450 (approximately ₹4,950) paid online during application
- Indian students need 90% at Grade 12 from CBSE/AISSC to get admitted into any UG degree program
- Hong Kong student visa (Student Visa / Entry Permit) required; students must demonstrate sufficient funds to cover tuition and living costs
- International students may work up to 20 hours per week during term and full-time during holidays
- Post-Study Work: IANG (Immigration Arrangements for Non-local Graduates) — graduates can stay and work in Hong Kong for up to 1 year after graduation (renewable); provides a clear pathway to Hong Kong permanent residency for talented graduates
- HKU is a fully English-medium institution; no Chinese language requirement for most programs
Note: Polygon Campus primarily assists with graduate-level admissions. Students are encouraged to confirm specific intake dates and program availability on hku.hk.
Top Courses
HKU offers more than 150 undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs through its 10 faculties. Key faculties and flagship programs include:
Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine
- MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery) — highly selective
- BDS (Bachelor of Dental Surgery) — #1 globally (QS Dentistry); the world's best dental program
- BSc in Nursing / Biomedical Sciences
- Master of Public Health (MPH) — English-taught; globally recognised
- MSc in Biomedical Sciences
- MSc in Global Health
- PhD in Medical Sciences / Public Health
Faculty of Engineering
- BEng in Computer Engineering / Electrical Engineering / Mechanical Engineering / Civil Engineering
- MSc in Computer Science — English-taught; highly popular for Indian students
- MSc in Electrical Engineering / Mechanical Engineering
- MSc in Urban Computing and Smart Cities
- MSc in Financial Technology (FinTech)
Faculty of Business and Economics (AACSB Accredited)
- BEcon in Economics and Finance — top program; highly competitive
- BBus in Business Administration / Accounting
- MBA — 1-year intensive; international calibre; English-taught
- MSc in Finance
- MSc in Business Analytics
- MSc in Global Management
- MSc in Economics
Faculty of Law
- LLB (Bachelor of Laws) — top 25 globally (QS)
- JD (Juris Doctor) — graduate law program
- LLM in Corporate and Financial Law / International Law — English-taught
Faculty of Arts
- BA in English Studies / History / Linguistics / Philosophy / Cultural Studies
- MA in Literary and Cultural Studies
- MA in Asian Studies — English-taught
Faculty of Architecture
- BArch (Bachelor of Architecture)
- MArch (Master of Architecture) — top 25 globally (QS)
- MSc in Urban Planning and Design
- Master of Science in Conservation
Faculty of Education
- MEd in Educational Management
- MSc in Applied Educational Psychology
Faculty of Science
- BSc / MSc / PhD in Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, Earth Sciences, Statistics
Faculty of Social Sciences
- BA / MA / PhD in Political Science, Sociology, Social Work
Cost of Studying at The University of Hong Kong
The University of Hong Kong fees for international students depend on the nature of the program, with the average fee approximately HKD 171,000–188,000 annually. The average tuition fees range from HKD 154,000 to HKD 324,000 (approximately ₹16,95,540 to ₹35,67,240).
Living expenses are up to HKD 50,000 per year based on the lifestyle of an average student living in Hong Kong. Monthly costs range from HKD 8,000–15,000 depending on lifestyle and accommodation type; university dorms are more affordable, private housing in central areas is more expensive. Hong Kong is a premium city but the extraordinary academic value — a top-11 global university with Asia's strongest employer network — makes it exceptional ROI. Note: 1 HKD ≈ ₹11.
| Type of Expense | Annual Cost (HKD) | Annual Cost (INR Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| UG Tuition — Arts / Social Sciences / Education | HKD 145,000 – 170,000/year | ₹15.95L – ₹18.7L/year |
| UG Tuition — Engineering / Science / Business | HKD 170,000 – 200,000/year | ₹18.7L – ₹22.0L/year |
| UG Tuition — Medicine / Dentistry / Law | HKD 200,000 – 285,000/year | ₹22.0L – ₹31.35L/year |
| PG Tuition — Taught Master's (most programs) | HKD 154,000 – 280,000/year | ₹16.94L – ₹30.8L/year |
| MBA (full-time 1-year) | HKD 500,000 – 620,000 total | ₹55.0L – ₹68.2L (total) |
| PhD Research Degree (non-local) | HKD 44,500 – 49,500/year | ₹4.90L – ₹5.45L/year |
| Application Fee | HKD 450 | ₹4,950 |
| Student Activity Fee (compulsory) | HKD 1,000 – 2,000/year | ₹11,000 – ₹22,000/year |
| Health Insurance / Medical Coverage | HKD 2,000 – 5,000/year | ₹22,000 – ₹55,000/year |
| On-Campus Accommodation (HKU halls of residence) | HKD 2,000 – 4,500/month → HKD 24,000 – 54,000/year | ₹22,000 – ₹49,500/month → ₹2.64L – ₹5.94L/year |
| Off-Campus Accommodation (shared flat, HK Island/Kowloon) | HKD 5,000 – 12,000/month → HKD 60,000 – 144,000/year | ₹55,000 – ₹1,32,000/month → ₹6.6L – ₹15.84L/year |
| Food & Personal Expenses (incl. campus canteen) | HKD 3,000 – 6,000/month → HKD 36,000 – 72,000/year | ₹33,000 – ₹66,000/month → ₹3.96L – ₹7.92L/year |
| Transport (MTR Octopus card — student) | HKD 400 – 800/month → HKD 4,800 – 9,600/year | ₹4,400 – ₹8,800/month → ₹52,800 – ₹1,05,600/year |
| Books & Study Materials | HKD 500 – 1,500/month → HKD 6,000 – 18,000/year | ₹5,500 – ₹16,500/month → ₹66,000 – ₹1,98,000/year |
| Total Estimated Annual COA (PG International) | HKD 250,000 – 420,000/year | ₹27.5L – ₹46.2L/year |
| Total Estimated Annual COA (UG International) | HKD 220,000 – 380,000/year | ₹24.2L – ₹41.8L/year |
Note: All INR conversions calculated at 1 HKD = ₹11. PhD students benefit from government-subsidised domestic rates of approximately HKD 44,500–49,500/year — making doctoral research at the world's #11 university highly affordable. Hong Kong's IANG post-study work visa and direct access to Asia's financial capital provide outstanding ROI. Please refer to HKU's official calendar fees page (calendar.hku.hk/schedule-of-fees) for the most current 2025–26 fee schedule.
Scholarships
According to the latest report, HKU has awarded 6,271 scholarships and prizes amounting to HKD 285,139,127 (approximately ₹313.65 crore) to both UG and PG students. HKU provides around 609 scholarships for both meritorious students and students in financial need.
Key funding opportunities include:
- HKU Entrance Scholarship for International Students — Once an application for admission is successfully submitted, students are automatically considered for an entrance scholarship; no separate application required; selection based on academic merits with consideration of non-academic achievements; scholarship may cover up to full tuition plus living expenses in some cases
- HKU Foundation Entrance Scholarship — Students accepted to select dual degree programs are automatically considered; scholarship may cover up to full tuition plus living expenses; no separate application required
- HKU Postgraduate Scholarship — For admitted research postgraduate (MPhil/PhD) students; covers full tuition (domestic rates) plus a monthly stipend of approximately HKD 18,000 (approximately ₹1,98,000/month); government-funded through the University Grants Committee; automatically considered upon research program admission
- Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) — Prestigious Hong Kong Research Grants Council fellowship; annual stipend of HKD 331,200 (approximately ₹36.43L/year) plus a travel allowance of HKD 13,500; covers 3 years of full-time PhD study at any Hong Kong university including HKU; open to all nationalities; extremely competitive; application deadline typically December 1 annually
- Belt and Road Scholarship — For students from Belt and Road Initiative countries; India is an eligible country; covers tuition and living expenses; apply through HKU International Affairs Office
- HKU Foundation Scholarships — Multiple thematic scholarships for students in Law, Medicine, Business, Engineering, and specific research areas; merit-based; automatically considered or separate application depending on the scholarship
- HKU Student Financial Assistance (SFAS) — Need-based assistance for non-local students facing genuine financial hardship; covers partial tuition and living support
Note: Indian students should apply for the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme — with a stipend of HKD 331,200/year (approximately ₹36.43L/year), this is one of the most generous PhD fellowships in Asia and the world. The HKU Entrance Scholarship requires no separate application — ensuring all strong candidates are automatically considered.
Admissions
The Hong Kong University acceptance rate is competitive and estimated at 10–15% for international students. Medicine, Law, and Business programs are highly selective.
For Graduate (Master's / Doctoral) Programs:
- Bachelor's degree equivalent to a Hong Kong Honours Bachelor's degree with minimum Second Class Honours or above; competitive programs (Medicine, Law, Business) typically require First Class Honours
- IELTS 6.5 overall for most PG programs; TOEFL iBT 90+; some programs require higher (MBA: IELTS 7.0)
- GMAT or GRE required for MBA and some Business programs (GMAT 600+ competitive for MBA)
- Statement of Purpose / Personal Statement (research-focused for MPhil/PhD)
- CV / Résumé (MBA requires minimum 2 years professional experience)
- 2–3 Letters of Recommendation
- Research Proposal for MPhil/PhD applications
- Official transcripts; Application fee: HKD $450 (approximately ₹4,950)
For Undergraduate Programs:
- Indian students need 90% at Grade 12 from CBSE/AISSC for UG degree programs; ISC and IB also accepted with equivalent standards
- IELTS 6.5 overall (no band below 5.5); TOEFL iBT 93+; SAT/ACT scores welcome but not mandatory
- Application fee: HKD $450 (approximately ₹4,950)
Indian students can check HKU's specific admission requirements for their chosen program directly through Polygon Campus.
Placements
Hong Kong's position as Asia's premier financial centre and global hub — home to major stock exchanges, international banks, law firms, consulting firms, technology giants, and the gateway to China's vast economy — gives HKU graduates arguably the most powerful career platform in Asia.
HKU graduates are highly sought after by large multinational employers. Many students often receive 2 to 3 job offers even before graduation, ensuring a seamless transition into the professional world. HKU graduates ranked 47th worldwide in the Times Higher Education Global University Employability Ranking 2022, and 10th worldwide for graduate employability in Asia.
Jobs After Graduating from the University of Hong Kong
| Job Profile | Average Annual Salary (HKD) | Annual Salary (INR Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Investment Banker / Financial Analyst | HKD 4,80,000 – 10,00,000 | ₹52.8L – ₹1,10.0L |
| Software / AI / Data Engineer | HKD 3,60,000 – 7,20,000 | ₹39.6L – ₹79.2L |
| Lawyer / Legal Professional (HK Bar) | HKD 4,80,000 – 12,00,000 | ₹52.8L – ₹1,32.0L |
| Management Consultant (MBB / Big 4) | HKD 4,80,000 – 9,60,000 | ₹52.8L – ₹1,05.6L |
| Medical Doctor / Clinical Specialist | HKD 6,00,000 – 15,00,000+ | ₹66.0L – ₹1,65.0L+ |
| Dentist / Dental Specialist | HKD 6,00,000 – 18,00,000 | ₹66.0L – ₹1,98.0L |
| Architect / Urban Designer | HKD 3,60,000 – 7,20,000 | ₹39.6L – ₹79.2L |
| MBA Graduate / Business Development Manager | HKD 5,40,000 – 12,00,000 | ₹59.4L – ₹1,32.0L |
Note: All INR conversions calculated at 1 HKD = ₹11. HKU graduates entering Hong Kong's financial sector, legal profession, or medical field command some of the highest graduate salaries in Asia. Graduates from Medicine and Dentistry (the world's #1 program) are in exceptional demand. Actual salaries vary by role, employer, location, and experience.
HKU's career support ecosystem includes:
- HKU Careers and Placement Service — Comprehensive career support with personalised career counselling, industry career fairs, employer presentations, on-campus recruitment drives, internship placement, and the HKU CareerLinQ online portal; dedicated advisors for Law, Medicine, Business, and Engineering
- 2–3 Graduate Job Offers Before Graduation — Many HKU students receive 2 to 3 job offers even before graduation; reflecting the exceptional employer demand for HKU credentials
- 1,577 Patents Since 1998 — Since 1998, HKU has been granted 1,577 patents; direct innovation and technology transfer career pathways for science, engineering, and computing graduates
- Exchange Program with 340 Partner Universities in 40 Countries — Every year, over 1,000 undergraduates participate in exchange programs, studying at universities spanning 40 countries; international exposure creates global career networks
- Hong Kong's Asia Financial Hub — Direct access to Hong Kong's unparalleled concentration of global investment banks (Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan, HSBC, Deutsche Bank), law firms (magic circle and US firms), consulting firms (McKinsey, BCG, Bain), and multinational corporate headquarters
- IANG Post-Study Work Visa — Graduates can remain in Hong Kong for up to 1 year after graduation under the IANG scheme; renewable; provides a clear pathway to Hong Kong permanent residency for exceptional graduates
- HKU Alumni Network (200,000+ Worldwide) — Over 40 HKU alumni hold principal official positions in the Hong Kong Government; active alumni networks in finance, medicine, law, technology, and the arts across Hong Kong, Greater China, and globally
For personalised guidance on HKU admissions, connect with the experts at Polygon Campus today.