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Searching an unforgettable summer experience in one of the best Asian universities? The University of Hong Kong Summer Program 2026 is a motivating combination of educational enrichment, international networking, and campus living in Hong Kong, which is a colorful city. As a high school student wondering about your future, an undergraduate with your new academic interests, or a graduate student interested in research experience, the HKU Summer Institute will be able to offer an opportunity to you. It offers a variety of courses, such as artificial intelligence, business, science, public health, and others, and will be aimed at stimulating your academic interest and developing practical competencies, not to mention the opportunity to experience the peculiarities of the Hong Kong culture.
Key Highlights
| Feature | Details |
| Host Country | Hong Kong |
| University | The University of Hong Kong (HKU) |
| Program Level | Undergraduate, Postgraduate & Secondary |
| Coverage | Scholarships (up to HKD 10,000), Travel & Accommodation Support |
| Eligibility | International and Local Students |
| Deadline | February 9, 2026 (Research) / March 21, 2026 (Immersive) |
Detailed Description
The HKU Summer Program 2026 will be divided into two different pathways, depending on the needs of different students:
- Summer Research Programme (SRP): This is an elite PhD track course offered to students during 10 weeks. The participants get to work on high-impact research being mentored with the best professors of HKU. It is meant to be a talent stream, where the best performers can be offered an early opportunity to join the HKU Presidential PhD Scholarship.
- HKU Summer Institute (HKUSI): The track is available in more than 40 multidisciplinary courses. It stresses on academic credits and occupational skills. Students get to sample one of the most distinctive High Table Dinner cultures and stay in residential halls taking courses such as Global Business, Architecture, or Data Science.
Benefits
The participants of the HKU Summer Program are selected and offered financial and academic benefits:
- Scholarships: The majority of the research participants get a flat HK$10,000 scholarship.
- Travel Reimbursement: International students are allowed to obtain HK$5,000 in airfares.
- Accommodation Support: Reimbursement up to HK$5000 on university-provided housing.
- PhD Fast-Track: HKU Presidential PhD Scholarship: Excellent SRP students are conditionally offered the PhD Scholarship.
- Networking: Access the international network of peers and the elite faculty.
- Cultural Experience: Campus tours, heritage tours and social activities.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the University of Hong Kong Summer Program 2026, applicants must meet the following:
- Academic Status: Currently enrolled in the 3rd or 4th year of an undergraduate degree or a Master’s program at a recognized university.
- Academic Excellence: A strong CGPA (typically 3.5/4.0 or equivalent).
- Language Proficiency: Must be proficient in English (TOEFL/IELTS required if the medium of instruction at your home university is not English).
- Interest: A clear interest in pursuing research or advanced studies at HKU.
- Specific Requirements: Some courses in the Summer Institute also accept Secondary School (Grade 10-12) students.
Required Documents
Ensure you have the following digital copies ready for the online portal:
- Latest Academic Transcripts (Official or latest available).
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) highlighting research experience and awards.
- Personal Statement (explaining your motivation and research interests).
- English Proficiency Certificate (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL, or an institutional letter).
- Passport Copy (valid for at least 6 months).
- Passport-sized Photo.
Application Process
The application is strictly online. Follow these steps:
- Register: Create an account on the HKU Summer Application Portal.
- Select Program: Choose one of the Research track or individual courses of HKUSI.
- Find a Mentor (For Research): Before applying, it is highly suggested to find potential supervisors at HKU.
- Upload Documents: Enter your personal information and academic information and upload the needed documents.
- Pay Application Fee: It is required to pay an amount of HK$300 (Research) or HK 400 (Institute).
- Submit: This is the last submission before reviewing all details.
Deadline
- Summer Research Programme (SRP): February 9, 2026 (5:00 PM HKT).
- Non-Local Students (Summer Institute): March 21, 2026.
- Local Students (Summer Institute): May 31, 2026.
How to Apply
Ready to start your journey? Apply through the official university links provided below:
Official Link:
Research Link:
FAQs
1. Who can join the HKU Summer Program?
Students at secondary, undergraduate, and postgraduate levels from any country can apply.
2. Does the program provide credits?
Some programs offer academic credits while others are non-credit. This depends on the course.
3. Are international students eligible?
Yes, both local and international students are welcome to apply.
4. Is accommodation available?
Accommodation options may be offered through HKU residences or partner facilities, depending on the course.
5. What language are courses taught in?
Most courses are delivered in English, so basic English proficiency is required.
6. Are scholarships available?
Generally, the program is fee-based, but certain research or academic tracks may offer limited financial assistance.
