Study Abroad
Go further than the campus by the sea
A semester or a year at one of our 117 partner universities — earn credit, build a global network, and come back to Clear Water Bay with a wider view of science.
Three ways an exchange changes you
A global lab bench
Take courses and join research groups you can't find in Hong Kong — from Arctic ocean science to CERN-adjacent physics.
A network for life
Classmates who become collaborators, hosts and friends across continents — the start of an international career.
Independence, tested
New city, new system, new language. Employers know an exchange graduate can adapt anywhere — and so will you.
From idea to boarding pass
Prototype guidance for review. Confirm dates, eligibility and credit policies with the Office before use.
12 months before
Explore & advise
Meet an academic advisor, shortlist partners that fit your major and credit needs.
2 rounds / year
Apply through OAAS
Submit your nomination with a study plan; we handle the partner-side paperwork.
Before you fly
Pre-approve credits
Lock in course mapping so every credit abroad counts toward your HKUST degree.
On return
Transfer & reflect
Grades transfer as pass/fail; share your story to guide the next cohort.
Find your exchange destination
Search published partner records by country, teaching language, term and compatible major.
No published universities match these filters. Try clearing a filter or check back for updated destinations.
Four steps to going abroad
Prototype guidance for review. Confirm dates, eligibility and credit policies with the Office before use.
Check eligibility
Good academic standing and enough remaining credits — most students qualify from Year 2.
Shortlist partners
Use the partner finder and talk to an advisor about credit mapping and language needs.
Submit nomination
Apply through OAAS in the autumn or spring round with your study plan and statement.
Prepare & go
Confirm your credit pre-approval, sort visa and housing, then pack your bags.
Questions before you go
Draft answers for Office review; these are not confirmed academic policies.
Will exchange delay my graduation?
No — with pre-approved credit mapping, courses taken abroad count toward your HKUST degree. The vast majority of exchange students graduate on time.
When is the best year to go?
Most students go in Year 3, once they've settled into their major but still have electives to fill. Year 2 semesters and summer programs are also popular.
Do I need to speak the local language?
Most partners offer courses taught in English. Where a language requirement applies, we flag it early and point you to preparation resources.
How are grades transferred?
Exchange courses transfer as pass/fail, so your HKUST GPA is protected while you take on the challenge of a new system.
The world is your campus
Prototype video selected for design review. Final video, captions and transcript are pending content approval.
Ready to see science elsewhere?
Explore the available destinations and discuss your options with an academic advisor.