In recent years, international students have increasingly sought opportunities to work while studying and to secure employment in their host countries after graduation. Hong Kong has introduced a new policy temporarily lifting full-time non-local undergraduate students from the restrictions on taking up part-time jobs. This initiative aims to enhance their professional exposure and knowledge of the local job market, encouraging them to remain in Hong Kong for career development after graduation and making the city an attractive destination for those pursuing higher education.
Since 2022, the HKSAR Government has extended the stay limits under the Immigration Arrangements for Non-local Graduates (IANG) from one year (12 months) to two years (24 months). This extension enables non-local students who have obtained an undergraduate or higher qualification in a full-time and locally-accredited programme in the HKSAR to remain in Hong Kong after graduation, offering them valuable time to seek employment.
With these recent policy changes, Hong Kong is becoming an attractive destination for international students to study, work, and pursue future careers.
Work While You Study in Hong Kong
Starting November 1, 2024, full-time international undergraduate students in Hong Kong are able to take up part-time jobs without any restrictions. This presents a fantastic opportunity to enhance your university experience and prepare for your future career.
What Does This Mean for You?
- Gain Valuable Experience: Work part-time alongside your studies to acquire practical experience in your field.
- Earn Extra Income: Support yourself financially while pursuing your education.
- Build Your Network: Connect with professionals and create relationships that could benefit your future career.
The Immigration Department (ImmD) will issue a “No Objection Letter” (NOL) to all eligible students through their institutions, eliminating the need for separate applications and streamlining the process.
Why Consider Hong Kong as Your Study Destination
Choosing where to pursue higher education is a pivotal decision that shapes your academic, personal, and professional journey. Hong Kong presents a unique proposition that blends academic excellence with real-world opportunities, but it’s essential to look beyond the glossy brochures to understand what studying here truly offers.
A Hub of Economic Dynamism
Hong Kong is often lauded as a global financial center, characterized by its free trade policies, efficient markets, and low taxation. It serves as a crossroads of cultures and business practices, creating numerous opportunities for students:
- Opportunities Abound: For students interested in finance, international trade, or entrepreneurship, Hong Kong offers a front-row seat to some of the world’s most exciting economic developments.
- Competitive Landscape: The city’s fast-paced environment fosters competition, requiring students to be proactive in securing internships and job opportunities.
Cultural Immersion and Social Dynamics
Studying in Hong Kong offers a rich tapestry of cultural experiences, immersing into the harmonious fusion of Eastern and Western cultures:
- East Meets West: With its unique historical background, Hong Kong is a global city where Chinese traditions intertwine with Western culture, encompassing various aspects such as festivities, religions, and languages.
Hong Kong offers a multifaceted environment that can significantly enrich your academic and professional life. It’s a place of immense opportunity that demands adaptability and initiative. By approaching your studies with realistic expectations and a willingness to engage deeply, you can leverage all that Hong Kong offers to carve out a unique and rewarding path.
Study at HKMU: A Gateway to Career Opportunities in Hong Kong and Beyond
Universities like Hong Kong Metropolitan University (HKMU) support students’ career aspirations. Studying at HKMU places students in one of the world’s leading financial and business hubs. The combination of extensive internship opportunities, practical industry projects, and comprehensive career support makes HKMU an ideal study option for those looking to build a successful career in Hong Kong.
Abundant Internship Opportunities
HKMU offers a wealth of internship options designed to enhance employability and provide practical work experience. Each year, the university arranges between 2,000 to 3,000 local and overseas internships for its undergraduate students. Notable programs include:
- Vietnam Internship Program: Developed in collaboration with the Hong Kong Young Industrialists Council, offering international business exposure.
- Shanghai Internship Program: In partnership with the Hong Kong-Shanghai Youth Association, providing insights into Mainland China’s dynamic market.
These programs not only provide exposure to international business practices, but also help students build a global network that can be instrumental in their future careers.
The Lee Shau Kee School of Business and Administration at HKMU has also partnered with the Federation of Hong Kong Hotel Owners to offer internships for Hospitality Management students. This extensive network ensures that students can gain hands-on experience in their chosen fields, making them more attractive to potential employers.
The Global Internship Scheme provides subsidies for students who participate in recognized global internship programs, allowing them to broaden their horizons while gaining invaluable international experience. Additionally, the Internship Lab 2.0 offers subsidized short-term on-campus work opportunities, enabling students to work directly within university departments and gain practical skills in a supportive environment.
Industry Projects and Real-World Experience
In addition to traditional internships, HKMU emphasizes the importance of industry projects that allow students to engage with real-world challenges. The Project-based Industrial Investigation Programme (PIIP) connects students with partner employers for hands-on project work, fostering skills that are directly applicable in the workforce. These projects help students gain insights into industry operations while developing problem-solving and teamwork skills.
Moreover, the university’s collaboration with the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks (HKSTP) through the Start-up Project Launcher Programme provides students with opportunities to work in innovative environments, further enhancing their entrepreneurial skills and experience.
Comprehensive Career Support
HKMU’s commitment to student career development extends beyond internships. The Student Affairs Office provides a range of career services, including career coaching, job search resources, and networking opportunities. Regular career fairs connect students with potential employers, allowing them to explore various career paths and make valuable professional connections.
The university also hosts workshops and seminars aimed at enhancing students’ employability skills. These initiatives ensure that students are not only prepared for their internships but are also equipped to transition smoothly into full-time employment after graduation.
Learn more about HKMU’s career support here.
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Why Should You Study at Hong Kong Metropolitan University (HKMU)?
Learn more about the programs and apply to study in Hong Kong through the links below, or book a call with us here.
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