PolyU welcomes applications from non-Hong Kong residents. At present, we have students of various nationalities from Africa, North America, Europe and Southeast Asia. We also have many students from the Chinese mainland.

According to the University Grants Committee, non-local students are persons entering Hong Kong for the purpose of education with a study visa issued by the Director of Immigration. Persons who enter Hong Kong on a work visa and study in a UGC-funded programme should also be counted as non-local students.

PolyU normally admits non-local applicants only to its full-time programmes. This is because it is difficult for non-local students to obtain student visas to attend part-time programmes.

It is the responsibility of non-local students to obtain visas to study in Hong Kong. You should submit your application to the Research Office. Enquiries on procedures should be addressed to the Chinese Embassy or the Immigration Department of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. It is necessary for you to nominate a sponsor who is a resident in Hong Kong, aged over 21, and who knows you.

Our Research Office is normally the sponsor in Hong Kong for non-local applicants admitted to our research programmes. If you have difficulties in applying for a visa, you can seek assistance from the Research Office.

Chinese mainland students should approach the Public Security Bureau Office at which their household registration is kept to apply for a visa.

The University is facing an acute shortage of hall places. Full-time students within the normal study period are eligible for one year of residence in the University-managed Accommodations (including the Student Halls and off-campus housing), subject to availability. They can make alternative accommodation arrangements if necessary.