QS World Ranking
#40
Acceptance Rate
23%
Annual Tuition (USD)
$20,000
On-Campus Housing
Available
QS Best Student City
#12
Hong Kong
Application Deadline
November 1
via Direct
Student Body
Total Enrollment
16,000
students
International Students
45%
US % data not publicly reported
Figures are approximate based on institutional reports and QS data.
Why This School
Asia's top science and engineering university with a stunning seaside campus and entrepreneurial culture.
QS Subject Rankings 2025
Rankings by academic subject — source: QS World University Rankings by Subject
Notes for US Students
All programs in English. Stunning seaside campus. Known for producing top tech entrepreneurs.
Admission Criteria
Key requirements for US students applying to Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST)
Acceptance Rate
23%
Selective
Application System
Direct
Deadline
November 1
Instruction Language
English
School Type
Public
Annual Tuition
$20,000
Requirements Checklist for US Applicants
- Apply via JUPAS or directly by December 1
- SAT 1380+ or ACT 31+ (or IB 36+)
- IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL 80+
- Personal statement required
- Strong math/science background for Engineering and Science programs
Class Size
Academic Calendar
Requirements may vary by program. Always verify with the university's official admissions page.
Admission Details
- Language of Instruction
- English
- Estimated Annual Tuition
- ~$20,000 / year
- Application Deadline
- November 1
- Application System
- Direct
- School Type
- Public
- Acceptance Rate
- 23%
- QS Best Student City (Hong Kong)
- #12 globally
Programs Offered
Scholarships to Explore
- ✓HKUST Scholarship
- ✓Reach Out Award
Cost of Living — Hong Kong
High CostEstimated monthly total
$1,890
vs. avg US college student
1% cheaper
US avg ~$1,900/mo
HKUST's Clear Water Bay campus is outside central HK — some savings on housing. The MTR is world-class and affordable. Cheap street food offsets costs.
Estimates based on 2025–26 student budgets. Actual costs vary by lifestyle and housing choice.
About Studying at Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) as a US Student
Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) is located in Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR and is ranked #40in the QS World University Rankings. The school offers programs in Engineering, Sciences, Business, Computer Science, Social Sciences. Instruction is offered in English. The estimated annual tuition for international students is ~$20,000 / year, with an acceptance rate of approximately 23%. Applications are submitted through Direct with a deadline of November 1. Scholarships available include the HKUST Scholarship.