City University of Hong Kong (CityU), located in Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong, is a globally recognized institution known for its innovative research and quality education. CityU is known for its cutting-edge research, particularly in fields like artificial intelligence, data science, and biomedical engineering. To foster the interdisciplinary research, City University of Hong Kong (CityU) established the Hong Kong Institute for Advanced Study (HKIAS), 23 Research Institutes/Centres, and 10 Applied Strategic Development Centres covering different areas of strategic importance.
Ranked among the top 100 globally for employability, City University of Hong Kong (CityU) graduates are highly sought after by employers. it offers diverse programs in science, business, engineering, social sciences, and the arts. The university has a strong commitment to sustainability and green campus initiatives. Applications generally open in September and close in late spring, but deadlines may vary by program.
City University of Hong Kong (CityU): Quick Summary
- Location: Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong – a vibrant urban area with global connections.
- Ranking:
- QS World University Rankings 2024: 54th globally
- QS Asia Rankings 2024: 19th in Asia
- Available Programs: Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD programs across Business, Engineering, Social Sciences, Arts, Law, and Veterinary Medicine.
- Program Duration:
- Bachelor’s: 3–4 years
- Master’s: 1–2 years
- PhD: 3–5 years
- Application Time: Applications open in September and close by March–April (varies by program).
Study Areas: Program List
CityU offers programs in the following areas:
Colleges / Schools
- College of Biomedicine (CBM)
- College of Business (CB)
- College of Computing (CC)
- College of Engineering (CENG)
- College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences (CLASS)
- College of Science (CSCI)
- Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences (JCC)
- School of Creative Media (SCM)
- School of Energy and Environment (SEE)
- School of Law (SLW)
- Chow Yei Ching School of Graduate Studies (SGS)
Academic Departments
- Department of Accountancy
- Department of Architecture and Civil Engineering
- Department of Biomedical Engineering
- Department of Biomedical Sciences
- Department of Biostatistics
- Department of Chemistry
- Department of Chinese and History
- Department of Computer Science
- Department of Data Science
- Department of Economics and Finance
- Department of Electrical Engineering
- Department of English
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Public Health
- Department of Information Systems
- Department of Linguistics and Translation
- Department of Management
- Department of Management Sciences
- Department of Marketing
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering
- Department of Mathematics
- Department of Mechanical Engineering
- Department of Media and Communication
- Department of Neuroscience
- Department of Physics
- Department of Public and International Affairs
- Department of Social and Behavioural Sciences
- Department of Systems Engineering
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences
- Chan Feng Men-ling Chan Shuk-lin Language Centre
City University of Hong Kong (CityU) Admission Requirements
Bachelor’s Programs:
Entrance Requirements by Country
English Profociency
- TOEFL iBT: Minimum total score of 79 in the Internet-based test (iBT at a test centre or at home)
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 or above (Academic Module)
- ACT: Minimum score of 24 in both ACT English and ACT Reading (in one sitting)
- Cambridge English Language Assessment:
- Grade C or above in Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE)
- Grade C or above in Certificate in Advanced English (CAE)
- SAT: Minimum score of 590 in Evidence-Based Reading and Writing in new SAT
Master’s Programs:
Academic Requirements
- Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree from a recognized university in Hong Kong or overseas.
- Equivalent qualifications may also be accepted.
- Final-year undergraduate students can apply if they will complete their degree before the program starts.
English Profociency
- TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 79
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5
- CET (China): Band 6
- Others: Equivalent qualifications accepted
Research Degree Programs:
- Master of Philosophy (MPhil):
- A bachelor’s degree with first or second-class honors (or equivalent) from a recognized university.
- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD):
- Transfer from MPhil at CityU, or
- A research-based master’s degree, or
- A master’s degree, or
- A bachelor’s degree with first-class honors (or equivalent), all from recognized universities.
English Profociency
- TOEFL: Minimum score of 79 (internet-based test)
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5
- Equivalent qualifications are also accepted.
- Colleges and Schools set higher standards or equivalent acceptable qualifications, as appropriate for their disciplines. To know, Visit
Professional Doctorate Programmes
- Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)
- Doctor of Business Administration (Taught in Chinese) (DBAC)
- Engineering Doctorate (Engineering Management) (ENGDEM)
Required Documents to Apply at City University of Hong Kong (CityU)
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS)
- Standardized test scores (if required)
- Personal statement or research proposal
- Recommendation letters
- Passport copy and recent photographs
- Application fee payment receipt
- For UNDERGRADUATE supporting documents: Visit
- Supporting Documents for Masters
- Research Degree Programs supporting document
- Supporting Documents for Professional Doctorate Programmes
City University of Hong Kong (CityU) Tuition Fees for International Students
Bachelor’s Degree:
- Bachelor’s Degree (Local Students)
- 2024-25: HKD 42,100/year
- 2025-26: HKD 44,500/year
- 2026-27: HKD 47,000/year
- 2027-28: HKD 49,500/year
- Bachelor’s Degree (Non-Local Students)
- 2011-12 Admission: HKD 100,000/year
- 2013-18 Admission: HKD 120,000/year
- 2019-22 Admission: HKD 140,000/year
- 2023 Admission: HKD 145,000/year
- 2024 Admission: HKD 160,000/year
- 2025 Admission: HKD 170,000/year
- Veterinary Medicine (2025 Admission): HKD 350,000/year
- Additional Fees
- Double Major: Extra credits beyond the limit charged on a self-financing basis.
- Double Degree: Extra credits beyond 144 or taken in the 5th year will incur additional charges.
For Master’s Programmes Fee, Visit:
Research Degree Programmes Fee
Annual Tuition/Continuation Fees (normally adjusted in September every year)
| Type of Fee | Mode of Study | Remarks | |
| Full-time | Part-time | ||
| Government-funded Students | |||
| Tuition fee | HK$44,496 | Not applicable | Non-refundable |
| Continuation fee | HK$11,124 | HK$5,562 | Non-refundable |
| External Funds/Self-financing Students/Self-financed (institutional-funded) | |||
| Tuition fee | HK$88,992HK$120,600 (non-local self-financing students) | HK$44,496HK$60,300 (non-local self-financing students) | Non-refundable |
| Continuation fee | HK$22,248HK$30,150 (non-local self-financing students) | HK$11,124HK$15,075 (non-local self-financing students) | Non-refundable |
Living Expenses
Living in Hong Kong is relatively expensive, but students can budget wisely to manage costs. Estimated monthly expenses for international students are:
- Accommodation: HKD 3,000–6,000 (~USD 385–770)
- On-campus housing is more affordable than private rental apartments.
- Food: HKD 3,000–5,000 (~USD 385–640)
- Dining on-campus or in local eateries can save money.
- Transportation: HKD 500–1,000 (~USD 65–130)
- The public transportation system in Hong Kong is highly efficient and affordable.
- Personal Expenses: HKD 2,000–3,000 (~USD 260–385)
- Includes clothing, entertainment, and miscellaneous items.
Total Monthly Living Cost: HKD 8,000–15,000 (~USD 1,030–1,930), depending on lifestyle and accommodation choice.
Why Choose City University of Hong Kong (CityU)?
CityU is a hub for cutting-edge research, located in the dynamic city of Hong Kong, offering global exposure. The university’s partnerships with leading institutions worldwide, excellent faculty, and career-oriented curriculum prepare students for future challenges. Its multicultural environment makes it an attractive destination for international students.
Suggestions for International Applicants
- Begin preparing application documents early to meet deadlines.
- Ensure English proficiency scores meet the university’s requirements.
- Research available scholarships and funding opportunities to ease financial pressure.
- Familiarize yourself with Hong Kong’s culture and lifestyle to make a smooth transition.
Available Scholarships for Interested Students
- Entrance Scholarships (merit-based)
- Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme
- CityU Tuition Waiver Scheme for Outstanding Students
- Scholarships for Academic and Cultural Exchange Programs
- Financial Assistance Schemes for Undergraduates
- External Bursaries and Loans for Undergraduates
- Financial Aids for Research Degree Programmes
FAQs about City University of Hong Kong
Q1: What is the application deadline?
A: Deadlines vary by program but generally fall between January and March for the fall semester.
Q2: Can I work while studying?
A: Yes, students are allowed part-time work within campus and limited hours outside under specific conditions.
Q3: Is on-campus accommodation available?
A: Yes, CityU offers affordable and convenient housing options for international students.
Q4: How can I apply for scholarships?
A: Scholarship applications are often integrated into the program application, but some may require separate forms.
Q5: Are internships included in the programs?
A: Many programs at CityU incorporate internships or industry placements to enhance practical learning.