Global Start - Hong Kong University of Science and Technology

Overview

This Fall 2025 opportunity is only open to first-year undergraduate international students.

Learn more about Global Start, including general eligibility requirements and answers to frequently asked questions.

What is unique about this program?

Study in a dynamic research university with an international reputation for excellence
Consistently ranked at the top for Business and Engineering
Courses are taught in English
Enjoy student life at a campus-based university, with residence halls, clubs, and activities - guaranteed housing!

Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST)

The university comprises five Schools: Science, Engineering, Business & Management, Humanities & Social Science, and the Fok Ying Tung Graduate School. The undergraduate student body comprises 83% domestic students and the remaining 17% equally split between students from Mainland China and other countries. In addition, with approximately 400 exchange students passing through HKUST every term, you really can make friends with people from around the world.

Guaranteed housing on a beautiful residential campus! Exchange students are expected to stay in University accommodation during their exchange period at HKUST. Students who wish to opt out of the University housing are required to provide justification and seek special approval from HKUST.

What is unique about Hong Kong?

People do not normally associate Hong Kong with nature. But the truth is that only around 25% of Hong Kong is the dense urban space that is so well known to the world. The other 75% is undeveloped, and comprises country parks and nature reserves. HKUST occupies a stunning 150-acre site overlooking the pristine Clearwater Bay, located on the Sai Kung Peninsula. The area is often considered as one of Hong Kong’s havens for outdoor lovers. Of course, with the efficient public transport system, you are never far from urban areas. A 15-minute bus ride will take you from HKUST to the nearest subway station.

What is unique about Cornell Global Hubs?

HKUST is a Cornell Global Hub partner university. Global Hubs are Cornell's collaborative centers of engagement around the world. Hubs will give students exciting opportunities for semester-long and short-term study abroad, field experience, participation in faculty-led research, curricular pathways through majors, internships, and more.