Mount Holyoke students may apply to study on exchange at the University of Hong Kong for a full academic year or for one semester, either fall or spring. The number of exchange places is limited (generally two or three students per year), but typically we have been able to nominate all qualified applicants. Application for the exchange is open to qualified students regardless of their financial aid status.
Established in 1911, the University of Hong Kong (HKU) is the region’s oldest institute of higher learning and an internationally recognised, research led, comprehensive University. As a leading international institution of higher education in Asia, HKU continues to attract and nurture outstanding scholars from around the world through its excellence and innovation in teaching and learning, research, and knowledge exchange. The University offers a diverse range of courses across various faculties, allowing students to tailor their academic experiences to their interests and goals.
HKU holds a distinctive position as an English-medium University in Asia, drawing on its unique heritage that integrates Western and Chinese traditions, as it strives to transcend cultural and linguistic boundaries. The University prides itself on its international community of students and staff, providing a vibrant campus life for all. HKU currently hosts over 16,000 non-local students from more than 90 countries. 69.8% of the professoriate staff are from overseas.
Global Rankings:
#26 Globally (QS University Rankings 2024)
#2 in Asia (QS University Rankings 2024)
#1 Globally (THE World’s Most International Universities 2023)
About Hong Kong
Hong Kong is one of the safest student cities in the world. It is a dynamic and vibrant destination that offers endless opportunities for exploration and adventures. The city provides a unique experience where the East and West, old and new, urban and nature, activity and relaxation interact in compelling ways. From the bustling street of Mong Kok to the stunning vistas of Victoria Peak, Hong Kong is a place that will keep you engaged and inspired throughout your stay.
All courses are taught in English except for courses offered by the School of Chinese (i.e., course codes that start with CHIN, e.g., CHIN2013)
Two semesters: first semester runs from early September to late December, second semester from mid-January to late May. Academic calendar details.
Students may apply for the full academic year, or for first or second semester only
Students enroll directly into courses offered by HKU to its degree-seeking students
Students may register for courses in any combination of subjects
Normal course load is 30 HKU credits per semester (which transfers as 16 MHC credits); students generally take 5 6-credit courses each semester
Optional courses are offered in Chinese language (Cantonese and Putonghua) and culture
Living Arrangements
Students may apply for a place in an HKU hall of residence; housing is not guaranteed, but students who apply usually are accommodated (housing is more readily available for spring than fall)
HKU offers 4 types of housing options: Residential Halls, Residential Colleges, Non-Hall Housing, and Off-campus Housing (university-rented and privately rented). Housing (aka Accommodation) in HKU is managed by CEDARS
Resources & Support
HKU offers a range of services and resources to ensure that students feel welcome and supported, including housing, health, wellness services, and academic advising.
Requirements
Minimum GPA of 3.0
Must have completed sophomore year (or at least three semesters, for spring entrants) prior to enrolling at HKU
No previous knowledge of Chinese is required
Exchange student pays MHC tuition; HKU waives its tuition
Exchange student pays directly for room and hall fees, and is responsible for her own meals, as well as nominal university fees, round-trip travel to Hong Kong, books, and personal expenses
Students selected for the exchange who are eligible for need-based financial aid are guaranteed Laurel Fellowships; financial aid award will be based on total budget, including MHC tuition, MHC administrative fee, any nominal HKU fees, and allowances toward room and board, books, personal expenses, and round-trip airfare
Students receiving merit aid (which ordinarily does not travel) may use that aid on the HKU exchange
Submit Mount Holyoke's Request to Study Abroad (including the Laurel Fellowship application, if applicable) in MyMountHolyoke; applications are ordinarily due in late November for the full year or fall semester, late March for spring
Students will be notified by early February (for the fall or full year) or early May (for spring) whether they have been selected for the exchange
McCulloch Center will submit the nomination to HKU, which will e-mail student with application forms and instructions (students must also be accepted by HKU)