Cost of Studying in Hong Kong for Pakistani Students

When planning to study in Hong Kong, understanding the total cost involved is essential for Pakistani students. Hong Kong is one of Asia’s leading higher education destinations, offering globally recognized degrees and an excellent quality of life. While the city is known for its high living standards, the overall cost of education is still competitive compared to countries like the UK, USA, or Australia — especially given the availability of scholarships and part-time work options.

Tuition Fees in Hong Kong Universities

Tuition fees vary depending on the university, program type, and academic level (undergraduate or postgraduate). International students, including those from Pakistan, generally pay between HKD 120,000 and HKD 200,000 per year.

Average Tuition Fee Range

Program Type	Annual Tuition Fee (HKD)	Approx. in PKR (2025)
Undergraduate Programs	120,000 – 180,000	7.2 – 10.8 million PKR
Master’s Programs	150,000 – 250,000	9 – 15 million PKR
PhD Programs	90,000 – 160,000	5.4 – 9.6 million PKR
MBA / Professional Courses	200,000 – 350,000	12 – 21 million PKR

Note: 1 HKD ˜ 60 PKR (approx. exchange rate 2025)

Engineering, Business, and Medical programs are usually on the higher end, while humanities and social sciences tend to be more affordable.

Living Costs in Hong Kong

Living in Hong Kong can be relatively expensive, but with smart budgeting and student discounts, Pakistani students can manage their expenses comfortably. On average, monthly living costs range between HKD 8,000 to 12,000 (PKR 480,000 – 720,000).

Breakdown of Monthly Living Costs

Expense Category	Estimated Monthly Cost (HKD)	Approx. in PKR
Accommodation (Hostel / Shared Flat)	3,000 – 6,000	180,000 – 360,000
Food & Groceries	2,000 – 3,000	120,000 – 180,000
Transportation	300 – 600	18,000 – 36,000
Utilities & Internet	300 – 500	18,000 – 30,000
Personal & Entertainment	1,000 – 2,000	60,000 – 120,000

Estimated Monthly Total: HKD 8,000 – 12,000
Estimated Yearly Total: HKD 96,000 – 144,000

Accommodation Options

Hong Kong universities provide both on-campus and off-campus accommodation options. Pakistani students are encouraged to apply early for university hostels, which are generally more affordable and convenient.

Accommodation Type	Monthly Cost (HKD)	Features
On-campus Hostel	3,000 – 4,500	Furnished, includes utilities, Wi-Fi, near campus
Shared Apartment	4,000 – 6,000	Shared kitchen, private or shared rooms
Private Studio	8,000 – 12,000	Independent living, suitable for postgraduates

Most international students prefer on-campus dormitories during their first year to adjust easily to the new environment.

Additional Expenses

Beyond tuition and living costs, students should budget for the following:

Health Insurance: HKD 1,000 – 2,000 per year
Student Visa Fee: HKD 230 (approx. PKR 14,000)
Books & Study Materials: HKD 3,000 – 5,000 per year
Mobile/Internet: HKD 200 – 300 per month
Miscellaneous: HKD 5,000 annually

Having a financial cushion for emergencies is also advisable.

Scholarships for Pakistani Students

Many universities and the Hong Kong Government offer scholarships to reduce financial burdens for international students. Prominent options include:

Hong Kong Government Scholarship for International Students - Covers full tuition + living expenses.
Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) - Fully funded for PhD candidates; includes a monthly stipend of HKD 27,000.
University Merit-Based Scholarships - Offered by HKU, CUHK, and HKUST for high-achieving international students.
Belt and Road Scholarship for Pakistan - Specifically designed for Pakistani students studying in Hong Kong.

Scholarships are competitive, so early application is highly recommended.

Part-Time Work and Earnings

Hong Kong allows full-time international students to work part-time (up to 20 hours per week) during semesters and full-time during holidays. Typical part-time jobs include research assistantships, tutoring, or on-campus administrative work.

Average earnings for part-time student jobs range from HKD 60 – 100 per hour, helping students cover part of their living expenses.

Conclusion

While studying in Hong Kong involves significant financial planning, the returns on investment are remarkable. With globally ranked universities, strong employability rates, and generous scholarship options, Pakistani students receive excellent value for money. Proper budgeting, smart accommodation choices, and scholarship applications can make studying in Hong Kong not only achievable but truly rewarding.