Exchange Application

Application Periods

Students can study abroad in either one of the below three semesters for exchange:

*BIBU and MAEC students can only apply 3rd Year Fall for SBM Exchange. Please click Special Notes for details.

*EVMT students can only apply 3rd Year Fall for SBM Exchange. Please refer to EVMT website for details.

Exchange TermApplication periodStudents who apply
3rd Year Fall Dec - Jan Year-2 students at the end of Fall
3rd Year Spring May - Jun Year-2 students at the end of Spring
4th Year Fall Dec - Jan Year-3 students at the end of Fall

*DDP students can apply for SBM Exchange shown below:

Exchange TermApplication periodStudents who apply
4th Year Fall Dec - Jan Year-3 students at the end of Fall
4th Year Spring May - Jun Year-3 students at the end of Spring
5th Year Fall Dec - Jan Year-4 students at the end of Fall

Application Form

The ONLINE APPLICATION is only accessible by the relevant year of students during the applicable periods. The form consists of 5 parts and all completed applications and supporting documents (e.g. CV, English test score, if applicable) must be submitted by the application deadline.

Online Application

PART
I

Personal and Academic Information

PART
II

Personal Essay

PART
III

Personal Development, Leadership Skills and Community Involvement

PART
IV

Exchange Choices

PART
V

Upload Supporting Documents

Outbound Exchange Application: Fall 2025

Application Open: Dec, 2024 (TBC)
Application Deadline: Jan, 2025 (TBC)
Application Link: https://mystudyabroad.hkust.edu.hk
Exchange Choices: https://bmundergrad.hkust.edu.hk/exchange/outbound-exchange/exchange-choices
Documents to Submit: Completed online application, CV, and Transcript

Exchange Interview

Eligible students will be shortlisted for interviews. Students must be available in person and attend a group interview to be considered for exchange. The interview format will be conducted in English and consists of 3 parts. Usually, the interviews are conducted with 2 interviewers in groups of 4-5 students and last around 30 minutes.

Exchange Interview

Part A: Self-Introduction thru various topics
Part B: English Communication Skills and Group Interaction
Part C: Follow-up Questions for Applicants

Interview Period

Spring Exchange: End Jun - Beg Jul
Fall Exchange: End Jan - Beg Feb

CGA Requirements

The minimum CGA criterion for exchange is 2.55 for all students including BBA, Dual Degree. (Also applicable to BIBU, MAEC and IIM students who apply in the Fall). You must meet this CGA in the terms indicated below to be short-listed for an interview:

SemesterCGATerm
Year-3 Fall Exchange

 

 

2.55 or above

at the end of year-2 fall semester
Year-3 Spring Exchange at the end of year-2 spring semester
Year-4 Fall Exchange at the end of year-3 fall semester

Language Requirements

Most schools have exempted our students from English requirements. The exceptions to this are several institutions in USA and UK Schools. For the exact details on the required TOEFL or IELTS for the institutions below, please refer to the "Other Notes" section of each School (not the fact sheet) or refer to this English Requirement Summary Table. The English requirements in this section will be strictly adhere to.

Test Centers in HK

IDP for IELTS

Tel: 2827-6362
URL: www.idp.com/ielts.aspx
  • There are only 2 types of IELTS in HK. Students must select the IELTS test (not UKVI). Then select ‘Hong Kong’ for location and ‘Academic – IELTS’ for the test module.
  • Application deadline is 2 weeks before the scheduled exam.
  • Results available by mail in 2 - 3 weeks after the exam or in 3 - 5 working days at the IDP office with an extra fee needed

  

Hong Kong Examinations and Assessment Authority for TOEFL

Tel: 3628-8833
URL: www.hkeaa.edu.hk
  • The Hong Kong Examinations and Assessment Authority only provides TOEFL information and students need to register online for the test.
  • Internet-Based Test
  • Result available in 2-4 weeks after the exam

Selection Criteria

Students applying for exchange must meet a number of requirements. In addition to your academic achievements, you will also be assessed in other areas according to the following formula:

Total Score = 50% CGA + 20% Online Application + 30% Interview (Overall)

The details of the Scoring Breakdown are as follows:

50% CGA

  • Student must meet a minimum CGA of 2.55 or above to be eligible for interviews

20% Online Application

  • 10% Personal Essay
  • 10% Personal Development, Leadership skills, & Community Involvement

30% Interview 

  • 10 % School Choices (i.e. suitability and knowledge of chosen institutions)
  • English Communication Skills
  • Interpersonal and Group Interaction Skills
  • Motivation and demonstrated awareness of other cultures
  • Personal Attributes/Ability to represent HKUST 
  • Elaboration of Online Application and Resume

Our automated system will match students to a university based on your total score and your top choice of university in order of priority, which has availability. You must also meet the host university’s requirements such as TOEFL/IELTS and any other specified conditions. The scoring of any particular applicant is confidential and will not be disclosed. SBM reserves the right to make the final selection decision.

Clearing Round

Students with NO OFFER meeting a minimum scoring will be invited to participate in CLEARING ROUND. Such students will have the option to participate or skip the clearing round based on the available schools. Students who participate will be subject to the same acceptance policies and penalties. More details of this arrangement will be provided to the relevant students during the allocation process.

 

Student Testimonials

LEUNG, Man Yi

EXCHANGE-OUT
University of Sussex, U.K.
BSc in Economics and Finance
Fall 2022
When I embarked on my study abroad journey in UK, I had no idea how much it would impact my life. Over the course of 5 months, I visited different countries and met so many amzing people from all walks of life.These precious experiences have taught me that life is about more achieving success or making money, it's about embracing new experiences and living in the moment. So, to anyone thinking of studying abroad, I say take the leap and enjoy every moment of this incredible adventure.

LEUNG Pui Yan, Esther

EXCHANGE-OUT
WHU Otto Beisheim School of Management, Germany
BBA in Marketing & Management
Fall 2022
My semester in Germany was an fantastic adventure that opened my eyes to the beauty of the world and the importance of cultural exchange. I jumped out from my comfort zone and try to experience the local culture and adapt to the lifestyle of the local people. The stunning scenary, interesting culture and friendly locals have deeply fascinted me. Life is a precious gift for us to explore new cultures and making unforgettable memories. Please cherish your gifts and embrace all opportunities that come your way.

JAIN, Aman

EXCHANGE-OUT
ESADE Business School, Spain
BBA in Information Systems & Management
Fall 2022
Looking back on my exchange experience, I am thankful for many ways in which it enriched my life. While studying at a world-class institution was undeniably a highlight, I also appreciated the chance to explore new cultures and learn from the people around me. I have gained a deeper understanding of the importance of intercultural communication, and I feel that I have become a more empathetic and understanding person a sa result.

HO, Lok Hei

EXCHANGE-OUT
University of Manchester, U.K.
BBA in Professional Accounting & Management
Fall 2022
Entering the exchange program was one of the best decisions I have ever made. Beyond the academic benefits, I have been taught the value of open-mindness and adaptability. By immersing myself in a new culture and way of life, I was able to develop a greater appreciation for the diversity if human experience.