Associate Postgraduate Students are part-time students who enroll in postgraduate courses for credits or as auditing students at HKUST. They do not register for a postgraduate degree or a diploma program. An Associate Postgraduate Student normally registers for no more than 6 credits in any one term.

 

HKUST

 

Eligibility

Associate PG Students should meet the following admission requirements:

  • A bachelor's degree from a recognized institution, or an equivalent qualification;
  • One of the following English proficiency attainments*:
    • TOEFL - Internet-based Test (iBT): 80 (for tests taken prior to 21 January 2026) *
                                                                   4.5 (for tests taken from 21 January 2026 onwards) *
    • TOEFL - Paper-based Test (pBT): 550
    • TOEFL - Revised Paper-delivered Test: 60 (total scores for Reading, Listening and Writing sections)
    • IELTS (Academic Module): Overall score: 6.5 and all sub-score: 5.5 *

    * Refers to scores in one single attempt only. Test at home option is not accepted.

     

    Applicants are not required to present TOEFL or IELTS score if

    • Their first language is English, or
    • Their bachelor's degree (or equivalent qualification) was awarded by an institution where the medium of instruction was English.

     

    Application Procedures

    Step 1

    Step 2

    • Apply online before the deadline

    Step 3

    Step 4

    • Register as an Associate Postgraduate Student

    Application Deadlines

    • Fall Term: 31 July each year
    • Spring Term: 31 December each year

     

    Fees

    • Application fee: HK$300
    • Tuition fee: charged on a per-credit basis, it varies from course to course.

     

    Visa Requirement

    Non-local applicants are recommended to check with The Hong Kong Immigration Department regarding visa and other requirements if they take up part-time studies in Hong Kong.