Applying to Hong Kong Universities with IB, A-Levels and Other International Qualifications
Key takeaways
- International qualification holders apply through each university's non-JUPAS (direct) route, not JUPAS.
- IB, GCE A-Levels and comparable qualifications are widely accepted; US applicants usually combine a high school diploma with AP or SAT/ACT.
- Non-local students pay higher tuition set by each university and need a student visa.
- Application windows typically open in September — earlier than JUPAS deadlines.
Hong Kong's universities are thoroughly international: a large share of each intake arrives with qualifications earned outside the HKDSE. If you are completing an IB Diploma, GCE A-Levels, or another national qualification, you will apply directly to each university as a non-JUPAS applicant.
What universities look for
There is no single conversion table — each university publishes which qualifications it accepts and the level of performance expected. In practice:
IB applicants are usually considered on their Diploma total with required subjects at Higher Level. GCE A-Level applicants typically present three A-Levels (or two A-Levels plus two AS-Levels), with subject requirements matching the programme applied for. US applicants generally combine a high school diploma with Advanced Placement tests or SAT/ACT scores. Other accepted systems include the Australian state certificates, Canadian provincial diplomas, and many national matriculation certificates.
Whatever the system, the pattern is the same: strong grades in subjects relevant to your chosen programme, plus evidence of English proficiency.
English requirements
Programmes are taught in English across most of the sector (some Chinese-medium programmes exist, particularly in Chinese medicine, Chinese studies and parts of education). If your qualification is not English-medium, universities typically ask for IELTS or TOEFL scores; each university publishes acceptable levels on its admissions pages. An English-medium qualification usually satisfies the requirement itself.
Fees and visas for non-local students
Be aware of two big practical differences from local applicants. First, tuition: non-local students pay substantially higher annual fees, set by each university — check the current figure on each university's admissions page before applying. Second, immigration: non-local students need a student visa, arranged through the university after accepting an offer; this is routine but takes weeks, so accept offers promptly.
Non-local students may take paid internships and part-time work only within the conditions attached to their visa — check the current rules with the Immigration Department rather than relying on forum rumour.
Where to start
Browse the universities directory for official admissions links, search the programme database for the subject you want, and read our non-JUPAS guide for how the direct application process works. Chinese-mainland applicants have their own dedicated schemes — see the mainland students guide. Everything non-local in one page: the non-local applicants guide.