The latest report published by Education Bureau (EDB) revealed that a spike of DSE Secondary 6 students pursuing full-time post-secondary studies outside of Hong Kong in 2020. It was reported that over 6,000 students left the city for further study, accounting for 14% of the 4,4000 respondents. The figure was 40% higher than the one recorded back in 2019, according to Ming Pao Daily.  

In terms of their choices of study destinations, the UK is the most favourable country amongst 4 English-speaking countries, increasing by 20% at 1,071; followed by Australia (652), Canada (270) and USA (157). It is also worth mentioning that the number of students choosing to study in Canada grew significantly by 100% compared to 2019.  

Overall, mainland China and Taiwan ranked as the top one and top two study destinations among 7 countries/territories listed in the ‘2020 Secondary 6 Students’ Pathway Survey’*, In particular, there was a substantial increase in numbers of students studying in Taiwan, increased from 890 to 1,577 between 2019 and 2020.   

A major student guidance centre linked the surge to a broader increase in interest in studying at universities outside Hong Kong – even as competition for spots at local institutions has declined – saying the trend could be related to political concerns at home or a perception of better prospects abroad.   

*The survey only include those sitting for the local university entrance exam (HKDSE) and applying to undergratuate programmes

Source:

• Ming Pao Daily –  (Traditional Chinese only ), 25 June 2021
• 2020 Secondary 6 Students’ Pathway Survey, EDB, HKSAR

Comments by Karen Hsu, Education Services Manager for Hong Kong

The British Council has been closely monitoring the market sentiment in Hong Kong since the socio-political unrest started in 2019. From the report of the record-high school dropout rate in the 2019-20 to the growing trend of DSE students studying overseas, it suggested that parents are worrying about the city's future and hoping to find a better studying environment.   

In addition, with more relaxed immigration policies for HK residents offered by countries such as UK, Australia, Canada, and the United Stated, local parents are becoming more and more proactive in seeking for overseas study options for their children than ever. Many of them wish to take advantage of the BNO immigration route to study and live in the UK.  

However, it is noteworthy for UK institutions to be aware that the demand for Canadian education has been growing strongly from Hong Kong, as Canada offers a faster pathway to permanent residency for eligible HK citizens (including BNO passport holders). In early June, the government further announced two new streamlined pathways* for eligible HK residents who are workers or recent graduates in Canada to reside permanently. So it is inevitable that the relaxation of immigration policies offered by the Canadain government would intensify the already competitive student recruitment market in HK.

Note:

* News link: Minister Mendicino announces opening of 2 new pathways to permanent residence for Hong Kong residents.