Back to top

IELTS for Hong Kong

Required IELTS scores at Hong Kong universities

IELTS requirements of Hong Kong universities which formed part of the world’s top 100 universities in 2019*

The following rankings come from the 2019 QS World University Rankings.

QS World University Rankings in 2019

Name of Institution

World rank

Minimum IELTS score required

The University of Hong Kong

25

6.5

The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology

37

6.5

The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK)

49

6.5

City University of Hong Kong

55

6.5

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University

106

6.0

Hong Kong Baptist University

N/A

6.0

Lingnan University, Hong Kong

N/A

6.5

The Education University of Hong Kong

N/A

6.0

Times Higher Education World University Rankings in 2019

Name of Institution

World rank

Minimum IELTS score required

The University of Hong Kong

36

6.5

The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology

41

6.5

The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK)

53

6.5

City University of Hong Kong

110

6.5

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University

159

6.0

Hong Kong Baptist University

N/A

6.0

Lingnan University, Hong Kong

N/A

6.5

The Education University of Hong Kong

N/A

6.0

 

Study Visa for Hong Kong

As universities in Hong Kong teach in English, proof of proficiency in English is usually required for non-native speakers. All Hong Kong universities accept IELTS results. This means that you can apply with your IELTS score from any of the 1,000 IELTS test locations worldwide. Your institution may have additional requirements. Please check with your respective university for more details.

To apply for a Student Visa to study in Hong Kong, you will need to provide proof of identity, evidence of your academic qualifications, and a financial statement. These documents are submitted along with your visa application form. You would also need a local sponsor, which can be arranged through the university which offered you a place. It is also likely that you will be required to provide details of your accommodation arrangements in Hong Kong. It generally takes six weeks to process a visa upon receipt of all required documents, so apply well in advance.

Also note that when your Student Visa is approved, you may also receive a “No Objection Letter”, de-scribing the types of employment you can apply for while studying in Hong Kong. International students should also be aware that there are restrictions on the types of part-time work you can take up. However, study-related internships, part-time jobs on campus and summer vacation work generally do not require separate applications.  

Normally you will be granted permission, upon entry, to stay in Hong Kong for 12 months or for the duration of your studies, whichever is shorter. Please remember to renew your visa at least four weeks before its expiry date.

Why do an increasing number candidates wishing to study in Hong Kong choose IELTS? 

(1)  Demonstrate your ability to communicate in a face-to-face Speaking test.  

Unlike other language proficiency exams where you are required to talk to a machine during your Speaking test, IELTS gives you the opportunity to talk with an examiner face-to-face in a relaxing and supported environment.

(2) Develop skills relevant to your studies and student life. 

IELTS places emphasis on your ability to communicate in authentic situations.  There is no need to memo-rise large amounts of unnecessary vocabulary or grammar.  Rather, IELTS includes learning how to com-municate in a range of scenarios you will encounter in learning environments. This will empower you to reach your full potential in your studies and student life.