Asia
Hong Kong: schools and universities
Hong Kong has many international schools and a long history of English-medium education. Its school year runs from September to July, at both local and most international schools.
| Quick facts | |
|---|---|
| School year | September to July |
| Free education | Twelve years at public sector schools |
| Local school-leaving exam | The HKDSE, taken at the end of secondary school |
| Extra school charges | Many international schools use debentures or capital levies |
| University applications | JUPAS for HKDSE students; most others apply directly |
Schools
Alongside tuition, many international schools in Hong Kong charge a debenture or a capital levy. A debenture is a large payment, often made by a company for an employee's child, that can give priority for a place and may be refunded when the child leaves. A capital levy is usually a yearly or one-off charge and is not refunded. Some schools offer both routes. Ask each school which it uses and what happens to the payment if you leave early.
The English Schools Foundation runs a group of English-medium schools that charge lower fees than many private international schools. Direct Subsidy Scheme schools are another option that some international families consider.
Universities
Many Hong Kong universities teach mainly in English. Students taking the HKDSE apply through the joint JUPAS system. Students with other qualifications, such as the IB or A levels, usually apply to each university directly as non-JUPAS applicants. The list of universities in Hong Kong is a starting point for comparing them.
Before you apply
- Ask whether a debenture is refundable, transferable or tied to a particular employer.
- Look at the journey time. Hong Kong is compact, but a cross-harbour school run at rush hour can take a long time.
- Non-JUPAS applicants should check each university's own deadline, which may be earlier than you expect.
Directory entry, checked October 2026. Entries describe the education system in general terms and link to country listings.