Tufts in Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a city and special administrative region of China with a population of over seven million. It is one of the most densely populated and highly developed places in the world, a major global financial hub, and home to one of the most active ports. The city has a vibrant and bustling urban center that blends Eastern and Western influence. Known for its iconic skyline, many are surprised to find that Hong Kong is surrounded by nature with access to mountains, over 450 miles of coastline, and 200+ surrounding islands. The climate is humid, subtropical.

Tufts in Hong Kong invites you to experience this unique city while enrolling in courses at the University of Hong Kong (HKU) or Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST), two of the most prestigious universities in Asia and among the most international universities in the world.

University of Hong Kong (HKU) courses are taught in English—except courses offered by the School of Chinese—and are offered across a broad curriculum. Faculties open to Tufts students include Arts, Business and Economics, Education, Engineering, Law, Science, and Social Sciences (students applying from other institutions will be limited to Arts, Engineering, Science, and Social Sciences).

Applicants are admitted to one HKU faculty and must take at least two courses (or 50% of the total course load) in that faculty. It is optimal for students to take the remaining credits from other faculties. Students are required to take 24-30 HKU credits, which is typically four or five courses (six credits per course, in general). Common Core courses will not count as part of the fulfillment of the 50% requirement of course enrollment for exchange students. Students admitted to Faculty of Law can choose no more than 6 credits of non-law course (i.e., 1 course) in each semester. 

Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) courses are also taught in English and their School of Engineering offers an exciting new opportunity for a small cohort of Tufts Engineering students to study in a more intimate, yet highly international, academic environment. Courses outside Engineering are subject to availability. 

Be sure to review our academic policies for education abroad and plan accordingly with your academic advisor(s). 

Review TGE Academic Policies

Prerequisites

This program is open to Tufts undergraduate juniors and seniors who meet the general eligibility requirements. Students from all academic majors are encouraged to apply and there are no language prerequisites. Per our agreement with the University of Hong Kong (HKU), non-Tufts applicants to the HKU may only take courses in the faculties of Arts, Engineering, Science, and Social Sciences.

University of Hong Kong

The University of Hong Kong (HKU) is a public research university that evolved from the former Hong Kong College of Medicine instituted in 1887. Since HKU's founding in 1911, the University has embodied the pioneering spirit of Hong Kong and it remains at the forefront of breakthroughs in medical and scientific research. HKU has a total student population of around 31,000 (undergraduate and graduate), with about 11,000 international students.

Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (Engineering Track - new for 2025-26!)

Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) is one of Asia’s premier research institutions, offering a wide array of engineering coursework taught in English and a learning environment catering to a diverse international student body. Students will learn from world-class faculty in state-of-the-art facilities. HKUST has a total student population of around 17,100 (undergraduate and graduate), with and international student body representing over 40 countries.

Orientation

Students arrive in Hong Kong in late August or early January and participate in a week-long orientation before classes begin. The orientation includes an introduction to campus and to the city, as well as cultural information and excursions. In addition to the Tufts-specific orientation, students also join a two-hour orientation for all HKU international students.

Housing and Meals

Students live in shared rooms in university dormitories with Hong Kong or exchange students. A meal stipend is provided to purchase meals either on- or off-campus.

Co-Curricular Activities

The University of Hong Kong has many student associations and clubs ranging from sports to specific academic interests to arts and music, and a wide range of other hobbies and interests. In addition, each residence hall and each faculty have their own Student Association. Students have access to fitness facilities, including an Olympic-sized swimming pool, and there are various fitness classes, like yoga or kickboxing, available off-campus for a discounted student rate. Volunteer opportunities at local organizations are also available, upon request.

Hong Kong University of Science and Technology boasts over 100 student organizations that cater to various student interests, including community service, arts and culture, and academic affairs. Students can also join one of over 30 sports clubs, utilize campus athletic facilities, and participate in a variety of fitness courses. Opportunities to do community service and outreach are also available.

The program director arranges cultural outings, dinners, and group excursions throughout the semester to deepen students' understanding of Hong Kong and the region, its culture, and its people. In the past, the program director has brought students to Taiwan and Beijing, and local excursions have included visits to the Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark, the Mai Po Marsh Reserve, museums, Chinese orchestra concerts, and other nearby points of interest.

Note that cultural excursions are subject to change.

Student Perspectives

The on-site director advises students on academics and co-curricular activities and organizes study tours, events, and cultural excursions.