Checklist for Students Coming to Hong Kong

Have you been accepted to study an undergraduate, MA, or MSc degree in Hong Kong and are wondering what to do next? Perhaps you're waiting to start your PhD in the region and you're eager to start? Hong Kong's eight universities are attracting more international students every year, so if you're looking for guidance about starting student life in Hong Kong, you're in good company! This checklist will tell you everything you need to prepare yourself for the challenge.

With New York and London, Hong Kong is part of the tri-city centre of the global economy so courses in finance, accounting, and management abound. An MSc degree in Hong Kong in one of these areas might be your reason for coming to the city.  Planning to move is like planning for change in a business - you can look at it strategically and with an eye for efficiency.

Visas. After being accepted into the course, the next practical step is to arrange your visa. From the Chinese Diplomatic and Consular Mission in your country, you can obtain the form ID 995A. You also need a sponsor in Hong Kong and this will almost always be your educational institution. The sponsor should complete and return your form ID 995B. Banks statements or notices of scholarship awards will be necessary to show you can afford to pay your course fees, accommodation, and living costs. Visas can take up to six weeks to be processed so exercise caution and apply a minimum of two months before your course start date.

Student visas allows for part-time work in term time and full-time work during the summer. You should receive a “No Objection Letter” detailing your full employment rights. Students wishing to stay after completion of their MA or MSc degree in Hong Kong may apply for a visa valid for a further 12 months.

Accommodation. Space is at a premium in Hong Kong so rents are high; university accommodation can work out cheaper in some cases. It will also mean you're closer to campus, libraries, and study centres. If you wish to live independently, try Rent a Room Hong Kong, ask other students for advice on locations, and try to arrange viewings within your first few days in the city. Serviced apartments are a good option because you don't need to sign a lengthy contract.
 
Cost of living. Less tangible, but perhaps even more important than the points above is to prepare yourself for the high cost of living in Hong Kong. Accommodation and utility bills will be your most costly outgoings. Entertainment and nightlife activities will also eat away at finances. 

Transport. The cost of getting to Hong Kong will largely depend on where you're coming from. Book flights early to avoid disappointment and high rates. Within the city of Hong Kong, the public transport network is great and extremely affordable. You can travel by subway, tram, bus, or ferry to almost any and all destinations. You can get an Octopus Card from any public transport service centre, top it up then use it to pay for most modes of public transport (except taxis and some mini-buses). You can even use it in many convenience stores and restaurants.
 
Preparing for a new life as a student in Hong Kong means reading up on your course textbooks and thinking about where you might want to focus academically, but it also means arranging flights, visas, and accommodation as soon as you can. Hong Kong is full of fascinating sights, world-class cuisine, and has a unique atmosphere. Studying here is a privilege so plan well, check your list, pack your bags, and when you step off the plane into your new adventure, you'll be ready to enjoy the moment.