Almost 200 new university students have failed their Chinese language exams and dozens will have to take a supplementary English language test.
Educationists fear the students will be unable to communicate with lecturers and follow courses, although universities say compulsory language improvement courses will be provided.
About 40 students who failed the Chinese Language and Culture A-level examination were admitted to Hong Kong University for the 1997-98 academic year.
Henry Wai Wing-kun, the university's deputy registrar, said students had to pass English and at least three of the five Chinese-language exam papers.
'This year we have still accepted students who failed Chinese Language and Culture. But we will tighten our requirements,' said Mr Wai.
'Students who want to join the university must pass both languages from next year.
'We have informed the schools. Students should have enough time to prepare for such a change,' he said.