More about HKUST
Pre Exchange
Application
You are responsible for obtaining a student visa for the country of the institution you are planning to attend before leaving Hong Kong. The visa process may take some time so you should apply as early as possible. For details of the Consulates of different countries, please click here.
Course Equivalence System
To help plan and choose your overseas courses, you can check course equivalency details on the Course Equivalence System. This is for your reference only and is subject to change.
Credit Transfer Guidelines
SBM has a credit load and overloading policy which will also apply during exchange. Exchange students can transfer a maximum of 18 credits from semester abroad. Students with a CGA of 3.3 or above in their fall or spring term before exchange, can transfer up to 21 credits, subject to SBM approval. For winter or summer programs, students can transfer a maximum number of 10 credits.
The entire course assessment and credit transfer process is handled by the Academic Registry Office. Students can refer to the procedures listed on their website. Inquiries can be sent to https://registry.hkust.edu.hk/enquiry.
NOTE on Virtual Courses: SBM UG Students are permitted to take ONE virtual course a semester, regardless of credit load. [Updated on 27 April 2021].
Travel Insurance
You will be automatically subscribed to the University's Travel Insurance for outgoing exchange. The plan provides insurance cover for travelling in the destination country of the exchange study. SFAO will provide insurance details to all successful exchange students.
Your host institution may have additional insurance requirements. In this case, you should also purchase the plan provided by your host institution, either before or after you arrive at your destination. Your host institution's exchange coordinator will provide details on how or where to buy this insurance.
Insurance cover is mandatory, if you do not fully comply with all the insurance requirements you will not be allowed to go on the exchange.
Financial Support
Need help covering the expenses while you travel and learn? There are several sources for financial assistance through SFAO, OGL, and SBM. The schemes are outlined below. Successful exchange applicants will be provided separately with more details of these financial aid schemes.
University Scholarships (SFAO)
Several University Scholarships are available through the Students Financial Aid Office(SFAO) to assist with the cost of your exchange program:
- Aji-No-Chinmi Co (HK) Ltd Scholarship for Overseas Experience
- China Merchants Scholarship
- Edmond Yue Exchange Scholarship for Heilongjiang Students
- Forewide 20th Anniversary Exchange Scholarship
- Fung Scholarships
- HKUST Alumni Endowment Fund - Exchange Scholarships for Non-local Students
- HSBC Overseas Scholarship Scheme
- Hung Choh Jan Fong Scholarships
- Kowloon Investment Co. Ltd. Overseas Exchange Scholarships
- Lee Hysan Foundation Exchange Scholarships
- Lo Bo Wing Memorial Exchange Scholarship
- The Centaline Eagle Club Exchange Programme Scholarship
- University of British Columbia Incoming Exchange Student Award
These scholarships are handled by the Scholarships & Financial Aid Office (SFAO) and for more details on these awards, please visit the SFAO Scholarship website.
Exchange Sponsorship (OGL)
Exchange Sponsorship is offered through the Office of Global Learning (OGL). The schemes that are available include:
- HKUST Study Aboard Sponsorship (for local and non-local; non-means tested)
- Subsidy on Exchange for Post-secondary Students (for local only; means-tested)
- Subsidy on Exchange to "Belt and Road" Regions for Post-secondary Students (for local only; means-tested)
These sponsorships are handled by the OGL. For more details on these sponsorship schemes, please visit the OGL Study Abroad website.
Travel-related Financial Award Schemes (SBM)
Besides scholarships and sponsorships, our Business School also offers SBM travel-related financial award schemes:
- Wong Chak Chui international enrichment Scholarship (for local and non-local; means-tested; CGA 2.85)
- International Enrichment Grant (for local and non-local; means-tested)
- Franklin Fund (for local; means and non-means tested)
These schemes are handled by SBM. For details on the International Enrichment Scholarship/ Grant, please visit the website.
Buddy Program
To help you learn more about your Exchange University, SBM has a one-on-one Exchange Buddy Program in which you will be paired with an incoming exchange student from your Exchange University.
In this program, you will act as their Buddy Ambassador and meet your buddy at the airport to help them wherever you can throughout their short stay in Hong Kong. In the meantime, they can help you prepare for you exchange to his/her university.
The Buddy program will help you make new friends and understand more about your host institution, and the culture and traditions of the country which you will visit for your Exchange Program soon.
Social Media Challenge
SBM UG Exchange-out Social Media Challenge showcases student's unique and mesmerizing exchange experience all around the world during their exchange study.
Winners from 2023/24 Spring |
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1st Place: Andy LO (Host University: London School of Economics and Political Science, U.K.) One Sem in London (Format: Video) |
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2nd Place: Jodie LAM (Host University: KEDGE Business School, France) With a lil tip of making a better taste of wine at the end. (Format: IG Reels) |
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3rd Place: Gordon CHAN (Host University: McGill University, Canada)
I was so surprised to witness this once-in-a-lifetime solar eclipse happening in Montreal with my friends. The videos show how the sky turns dark in the daytime and how the sun is fully covered by the moon. I can still recall how crowded the campus was during the event, we were all amazed by this gift from nature. (Format: Photo & Videos) |
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Merit Prize: KIM Minji, Dana (Host University: Emory University, USA)
until the next time #exchange #trips #memories (Format: IG Reels) |
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Merit Prize: Hinduja Ankit VINOD (Host University: University College Dublin, Ireland) My semester abroad was full of firsts - my first time in Europe, witnessing my first snowfall, and even my first glimpse of the northern lights. But more than any natural spectacle, I will forever cherish the new friends I made along the way and the memories we created together on this incredible journey. (Format: Photos) |
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Merit Prize: Mimi MAK (Host University: University of Innsbruck, Austria)
My exchange university is the University of Innsbruck in Austria. Even after exploring many destinations, Austria remains one of my top picks. From the snow-covered landscapes to the vibrant blooming season, I've had the opportunity to discover numerous captivating locations within this beautiful country. In the first part of my Instagram reel, I highlight the artistic ambiance, breathtaking natural scenery, and entertaining experiences I've encountered in different part of the country. The final segment features glimpses of my day-to-day life in Austria, including the meaningful friendships I've formed during my time here. (Format: IG Reels) |
Winners from 2023/24 Fall |
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1st Place: Helen CHENG CHENG (Fall 23 Exchange: University of Texas at Austin, USA) Cozy night, Christmas night I got the opportunity to feel the Christmas vibe before I left the US. Spending time with so many international friends at an American house on a Christmas night was cosy. We all ate together, enjoyed concerts, and sung Christmas music in different languages. (Bridge International was the event organiser.) |
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2nd Place: Yannis CHAN (Fall 23 Exchange: Maastricht University School of Business and Economics, The Netherlands European Exclusive: Unforgettable Experiences Not Found in Hong Kong The picture was taken in First, Switzerland. Switzerland is the most beautiful country in Europe that I have visited. I will never forget the breathtaking view I witnessed, and if given the opportunity, I will definitely visit Switzerland again. |
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3rd Place: Kelly LAM (Fall 23 Exchange: SDA Bocconi School of Management, Italy) Push push! From the symbolic icon – the Leaning Tower, guess where are we in? Bingo, Italy! A little more story behind this: we all six people (sadly there’s one who is out of the picture to instruct us for the posture, credit to our great cameraman @Shawn) come from diverse backgrounds as Hong Kong, Mainland, Malaysia, and Indonesia. It is such a blessing to meet them all once boarded in Italy and to plan the trip together. Italy is always a sunny place with nice weather so you could see we hardly open our eyes. A fun picture to preserve the precious moments not only in my heart, but also physically for me to see, recall, and miss once more and more. |
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Merit Award: Swapnil MISHRA (Fall 23 Exchange: KEDGE Business School, France) Celebrating France's love affair with chess! This iconic picture is of me and my fabulous squad of newly made friends from my exchange adventure in France! We stumbled upon this colossal chess set, which is a nod to France's love affair with chess. Picture us striking poses with giant pieces, soaking up the cultural vibes. We wanted a slice of French magic, so we snapped this memory as a keepsake for our newfound friendship. Vive la fun and chess camaraderie! |
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Merit Award: Thomas CHU (Fall 23 Exchange: University of Southern California, USA) Chasing the Sunset @ Santa Monica Beach Santa Monica Beach is one of the most famous and beautiful places in Los Angeles to watch sunset. Facing towards the Pacific Ocean, the view is spectacular. Me and my friend were not ready for the sunset to be gone and we are chasing towards it. |
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Merit Award: Nikita KUWADEKAR (Fall 23 Exchange: HEC Paris, France) A sunset over the sea This photo was taken on a boat in the south of France. My exchange friend and I did a trip to explore the area and we got a boat tour. On the tour we made friends with people from all over the world, it was an amazing experience! |
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Merit Award: Hilary CHAN (Fall 23 Exchange: McGill University, Canada) Canada Exchange: Moraine Lake's Majestic Serenity This captivating photograph perfectly encapsulates the memorable experience of an exchange semester in Canada. The image showcases the awe-inspiring beauty of Moraine Lake in Banff National Park, nestled amidst the breathtaking Canadian Rockies. The lake's crystal-clear turquoise waters, reflecting the towering snow-capped peaks, create a scene that is both visually striking and emotionally uplifting. It represents one of the many moments of shared discovery with lifelong friends and personal growth. We are constantly inspired by the boundless opportunities offered in the world of exchange. |
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Merit Award: Ian ZHANG (Fall 23 Exchange: McGill University, Canada) Let's Laugh When We Say Goodbye The day we had all anticipated and dreaded had arrived—the bittersweet end of our exchange program. Filled with a mixture of emotions, our tight-knit group came together, ready to bid our farewells. Laughter echoed through the air as we reminisced about the incredible journey we had shared. Excitement for the future mingled with a touch of nostalgia, knowing that parting was inevitable. Yet, in that moment, we embraced the joy of our bond, captured forever in this photo. Our smiles, radiant and genuine, spoke volumes about the unforgettable memories we had created. “Friendship, forever!” |
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Merit Award: Iris KWOK (Fall 23 Exchange: Maastricht University School of Business and Economics, The Netherlands) Liberty Bridge: A Stunning Link Between Buda and Pest A captivating nighttime photo of Liberty Bridge in Budapest showcases the bridge illuminated by a myriad of colorful lights. The bridge's elegant arches and ornate ironwork are beautifully highlighted, casting enchanting reflections on the calm waters of the Danube River below. The vibrant city lights in the background add a touch of urban charm, creating a mesmerizing scene that captures the essence of Budapest's architectural beauty and vibrant nightlife. |
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Merit Award: Cherry TZU (Fall 23 Exchange: Aarhus School of Business, Denmark) Imitating the Søfartsmonumentet I visited Copenhagen with exchange students from CityU, HKBU, NUS, SMU, and NTU. We went to see the Maritime Monument (Søfartsmonument) and posed like the reliefs. |
Winners from 2022/23 Spring |
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1st Place: Monal GANDHI (Spring 23 Exchange: SKEMA Business School) A Galentines evening in Paris Spending Valentine's Day in the most romantic city in the world was surely very intimidating for me, not to mention it was only my first month in Paris as well. So, a couple of my girl friends and I had a super wholesome picnic at the most iconic landmark, the Eiffel Tower, to celebrate this day with each other, remembering how important it is to support one another, especially because we all moved to a new city. While taking a group photo, we had asked another group of Mexicans to help us, and that surprisingly turned into hours and hours of conversation with then, exchanging cultures, experiences and advice with one another. I know i have not only made lifelong friends and memories, but I have also allowed myself to completely immerse myself in the Parisian culture. This is just one photo to commemorate one of my favourite evenings in Paris, but during my exchange I had met so many incredible people just like through these instances and I could not be more grateful for it.
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2nd Place: NG Pui Ka (Spring 23 Exchange: NEOMA Business School, GBBA France) The Fantastic Five under Mont Saint Michel on a bright sunny day This is the friend group that I have spent the most time with throughout my exchange. 5 people, 4 nationalities, 9 languages. The photo was taken by a stranger during our first trip to Mont Saint Michel, the famous French landmark. It was a super sunny and beautiful day and everyone had a hard time trying to open our eyes while walking to the island. The reason why this picture is special is that Francis, the far left guy, never opens his eyes or smiles in any photos but this time. This is also one of the most photogenic moment of us five. |
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3rd Place: KWAN Ching Yi (Spring 23 Exchange: University of St. Andrews, Scotland) The last bit of youth under the sunrise The photo was taken in sunrise time in one of the prettiest beach in St Andrews, West Sands. We were joining one of St Andrews traditional festival, May Dip, in which every student can choose to jump into the sea at merely a few degree Celsius. It was approaching the end of semester at that time in which our exchange journey has almost been to the end, but the vibe of youth was memorable to me under this photo and hardly be forgotten. |
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Merit Award: LAM Hoi Ching (Spring 23 Exchange: University of Minnesota) Real Minnesotans after snow storm
Being one of the coldest state in the US, what do people in Minnesota do after a snowstorm? The go out and enjoy the snow! This picture is taken when workers of an international student organizations(Bridges) in UMN took us to play snow after a storm. We are trying to make a chain while sledding. The chain did not go as planned on the way down, but it sure was fun. |
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Merit Award: Ismet OZER (Spring 23 Exchange: Georgia Institute of Technology) To Space Again? Given the recent rise in space travel again, it was amazing to see the astronaut suits at the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum that were used on NASA missions when first exploring beyond our Earth. This photo represents the brave dream to explore the wider world and that we should never stop dreaming, no matter how challenging a task may seem! Who knows what the future holds?
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Merit Award: CHAN Ka Ki (Spring 23 Exchange: IE Business School, Madrid, Spain) The Unbreakable Bond This photo was taken with my closest friends I met during the exchange, who are from the US and Brazil. That was the last time we met before we all headed back to our home countries. It was taken in front of the Royal Palace of Madrid, which is one of my favorite places in Madrid. We have promised to keep in touch and see each other again, be it in our hometowns or in Madrid. The friendship made in the exchange will last long after, even forever.
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Merit Award: LAI KWAN LAI KI Sarah Chole Cheuk Yu (Spring 23 Exchange: KEDGE Business School, France) Pedalos in the French Canyon This photo was taken at Verdon Gorge (Gorges du Verdon in French) during a trip to Marseille. This picture shows a different side of France - not the typical touristy destinations but the mesmerizing nature it has to provide. This area is only reachable by car so after a long drive, we were greeted by beautiful turquoise waters and limestone cliffs. We rented pedalos to go into the canyon which was more beautiful than seen in the picture. It was memorable for me as it was the first time I travelled with completely new friends and formed close relationships with them. |
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Merit Award: Samyuktha PARAMESWARAN (Spring 23 Exchange: ESADE Business School, Spain) Discovering Barcelona's Cultural Symbol Having been in Barcelona for a few weeks, all of us exchange students had heard a lot about the Sagrada Familia and knew it as Barcelona's biggest cultural symbol. We planned a weekend trip specifically for this Basilica and awaited the sight of it throughout our metro ride. As soon as we got out of the station, there it was! By far the most beautiful thing we'd seen in Barcelona, the Sagrada Familia was much bigger than expected and bore many nature-like details. After staring at the monument for a good 15 minutes, We proceeded to click the uploaded picture! :) |
Winners from 2022/23 Fall |
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1st Place: KEUNG, Yeuk Yan (Fall 22 Exchange: University of Exeter) Pumpkin Patch Exploration This is the first time for me and for my friends from Europe and Japan to experience the pumpkin patch right before the Halloween during our UK exchange journey, though the field is really muddy after rains, we still enjoyed it a lot! |
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2nd Place: LEE, Ka Yi (Fall 22 Exchange: Queen’s University) Paint Party at NEWTS Orientation! This picture was taken at NEWTS Orientation during the paint party. We randomly applied the color to our hands and painted it onto other people's clothing during this activity. The school colors of The Queen's University:Â blue, red, and yellow, are represented by the three colors of the dye. We also combine the colors to produce new hues, representing the integration of different cultures. By dancing and painting together, we have fun social outings with the other exchange students. This event is one of the most remarkable memories as we can embrace the party culture at Queen's! |
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3rd Place: TONG, Man Hin (Fall 22 Exchange: Monash University) Sky High Exchange is all about "JUMPING" out of your comfort zone. As you step into the unknown, you will only be amazed by what the future holds! |
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Merit Award: CHAN, Wing Yin (Fall 22 Exchange: Indiana University) Jill Behrman Color the Campus 5K - Showered with Colored Powder! JB5K is an annual event held in Indiana University that aims to bring awareness to issues of violence in the community. Students and anyone in Bloomington community are welcome to join. |
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Merit Award: WONG, Hei Chi Roderic (Fall 22 Exchange: NEOMA Business School)
Allez les Bleus! Had an intense 2 hours in watching the FIFA World Cup 2022 Finals, where France VS Argentina, with Canadian and South African exchange students in France. |
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Merit Award: ZENG, Yongxi (Fall 22 Exchange: University of Wisconsin-Madison)
The Grand Canyon Grand Canyon is one of seven natural wonders of the world, and one of the largest canyons on Earth. It cuts by the Colorado River in the high plateau region of northwestern Arizona, U.S and stretches for 450 kilometers. It’s beyond words to describe when I first see it. The colorful rock layers record billions of years of history and hide many unique species there. No descriptions can ever completely describe the beauty of the canyon and it’s a must-go in life !!! |
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Merit Award: LAU, Cho Ki Lorraine (Fall 22 Exchange: BI Norwegian Business School)
Warm Bonfire, Warm Hearts Taken at Sognsvann, Oslo’s most famous lake right beside our Kringsja dorm, the photo depicts a group of friends building their bonfire and friendship through perseverance, passion and their love for one another. Three out of the seven people were exchange students from other destinations who came to visit. To provide our beloved friends with the best Norwegian experience, we built the most original bonfire under -5 degrees by timber by trial and error. It was cold, but persevering to build the bonfire and our hearty chats warmed all our hearts. We barbecued local Norwegian meat like reindeer. The lake scene was picturesque and the sky was starry and dreamy, perfect for weaving our friendship amidst exchange. |
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Merit Award: CHAU, Yat Corliss (Fall 22 Exchange: University of St. Gallen)
Jungfrau My exchange friends and I went to Jungfrau in Switzerland during one of the weekends in September. Although it was really cold, the view there and throughout our journey really worth it. We also had a lot of fun with the ice and snow up there, including having a snowball fight! |
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Merit Award: HUI, Siu Lun (Fall 22 Exchange: National University of Ireland)
First night out in Ireland A photo taken in front of Monroes, a famous Irish bar in Ireland |
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