The HKU CEDARS Private Student Living Collaboration and Referral Scheme (the “Scheme”) is a residential partnership initiative that supports students in exploring additional accommodation options beyond University‑administered housing.
Private Student Living accommodation providers interested in participating may submit information relating to their residence, facilities, operations, and service arrangements for review under the Scheme framework. Participating providers collaborate with CEDARS to make student‑focused housing options and clear, transparent information available for student reference.
Students will enter into tenancy agreements directly with the accommodation providers. Participating providers remain solely responsible for the management, facilities, services, contractual terms, and all applicable legal and regulatory compliance of their properties.
The Scheme aims to broaden the range of accommodation options available to students, improve transparency of information on residence arrangements, and support the development of more student‑oriented living environments near campus.
Vision & Goals
CEDARS vision is to foster a trusted private student accommodation network that expands access to safe, well-managed accommodation near campus, supported by transparent pricing and sustainable operations.
Through the Scheme, we aim to:
- Enhance the Student Living Experience by broadening access to student-oriented accommodation with clear standards and informed housing choices.
- Facilitate Accessible Support by connecting students in participating accommodation with relevant support networks and, where feasible, Off-campus Support Ambassadors.
- Promote Quality and Safety by encouraging good practices in relation to statutory compliance, facilities, and community well-being.
About the Scheme
Due to strong demand for University accommodation, many students choose to live off campus. To support students exploring alternative housing options, CEDARS provides transparent housing information and direct referral support for private, student‑oriented accommodation.
CEDARS' Support
1. Transparent and Comprehensive Information
CEDARS provides clear and consolidated information on private student living options to help students compare and understand available choices. Information may include accommodation types, rental ranges, facilities, and general living considerations.
2. Direct Referral to Accommodation Providers
Where appropriate, CEDARS facilitates direct, information‑based referrals by connecting students with private accommodation providers offering student‑focused housing.
About the Private Student Living Options
All private student accommodations listed are independently owned and operated by external housing providers. These providers are responsible for property management, daily operations, and compliance with applicable legal and regulatory requirements.
Many of these accommodations primarily house university students (from HKU and/or other local or overseas institutions) and may offer a student‑focused, community‑oriented living environment. Depending on the provider, accommodation may include:
- single or shared rooms;
- shared flats or apartment‑style units; and
- communal facilities such as kitchens, study areas, lounges, gyms, or laundry rooms.
Facilities, services, and management practices vary between providers.
Living Style
Living
- Living providers offer professionally managed accommodation that meets HKU’s benchmarks for safety, comfort, and services. These residences focus on private and quiet living environments, with reliable facilities, clear house rules, and responsive maintenance.
- They do not provide dedicated communal spaces under the enhancement criteria and are best suited to students who value privacy, personal space, and a more independent living arrangement.
Community
- Community providers offer the same core living standards as Living providers, while also providing well‑equipped communal spaces that meet the enhancement criteria. They take a more active role in fostering engagement through inclusive activities and student support.
- They are well suited to students who value social connection, a sense of belonging, and a more community‑oriented living experience.
How to Apply
How Referral Works
- Browse housing information provided by CEDARS.
- Submit a referral request via the CEDARS application system.
- CEDARS refers your enquiry to relevant accommodation providers.
- Providers contact you directly to share details or arrange viewings.
- If you proceed, you will enter into a tenancy agreement directly with the provider.
CEDARS may also organise open‑house viewings or information sessions when appropriate. Students may be invited to complete voluntary feedback surveys to support ongoing information sharing.
Key Information for Students
- CEDARS provides housing information, advisory support, and information‑based referrals, but does not own, operate, endorse, accredit, or certify any listed accommodation.
- Information is provided for reference only and may change over time.
- Students are responsible for reviewing tenancy terms, assessing suitability and affordability, and understanding their rights and obligations before entering any agreement.
- CEDARS is not a party to any rental agreement and does not intervene in private matters or disputes between students and accommodation providers.
For Accommodation Providers
About the Collaboration
- Participating Private Student Living Accommodations: Accommodations operated by external providers participate in the Scheme following a review of information relating to safety, facilities, and student support arrangements.
- Student Support Network: CEDARS facilitates a point of connection for students and supports community-building within participating accommodations. Where an accommodation houses a substantial number of HKU students (e.g., 60 or more), the University may, where feasible, arrange an Off-campus Support Ambassador to provide additional community support.
- Transparent Process: Students can access information on participating accommodations through CEDARS and will enter into tenancy agreements directly with the providers. Information provided aims to support clearer understanding of accommodation arrangements, fees, facilities, and services.
Benefits of the Scheme
For Accommodation Providers
Participation in the Scheme may offer:
- increased visibility among HKU students through CEDARS housing channels;
- a structured framework for presenting accommodation information; and
- an opportunity to demonstrate commitment to student well‑being and responsible operations.
For HKU Students
Participating accommodations may offer:
- access to a wider range of safe and quality private student housing options;
- opportunities for a more connected, community‑oriented living experience;
- clearer information on accommodation arrangements, pricing, and facilities; and
- access to up‑to‑date housing information via CEDARS and participating providers.
Period of Partnership
Participation in the Scheme takes effect upon completion of the assessment process and remains valid until further notice, subject to ongoing compliance with Scheme requirements.
The University reserves the right to suspend or terminate participation at any time, with or without prior notice, in cases of material or persistent non‑compliance, safety or legal risks, misrepresentation, or where continued participation is considered no longer appropriate, in accordance with Scheme procedures.
Assessment Framework
Eligibility
Applicants wishing to participate in the Scheme must satisfy the following eligibility requirements in order to be considered:
- hold the appropriate licence(s) for the intended use under Hong Kong law;
- comply with all applicable Hong Kong laws, regulations, codes, guidelines, and requirements relating to building safety, fire safety, health, and the environment;
- provide proof of ownership or operational rights, up-to-date compliance certificates, valid insurance, and PDPO-compliant data privacy practices;
- ensure that the majority of residents in the participating property are students; and
- where the Scheme threshold is reached, participating providers are expected to offer discounted accommodation for CEDARS‑appointed Off‑campus Ambassador(s) to support students on site.
Provider Categories
- Flat Unit Providers: Offer individual bedspaces within self-contained units (e.g., studios, 1–4BR).
- Room Unit Providers: Offer individual bedspaces within room units (e.g., en-suite rooms).
Types of Residential Partners
Type 1: Living
- Living providers offer professionally managed accommodation that meets HKU’s benchmarks for safety, comfort, and services. These residences focus on private and quiet living environments, with reliable facilities, clear house rules, and responsive maintenance.
- They do not provide dedicated communal spaces under the enhancement criteria and are best suited to students who value privacy, personal space, and a more independent living arrangement.
Type 2: Community
- Community providers offer the same core living standards as Living providers, while also providing well‑equipped communal spaces that meet the enhancement criteria. They take a more active role in fostering engagement through inclusive activities and student support.
- They are well suited to students who value social connection, a sense of belonging, and a more community‑oriented living experience.
Review Procedures
CEDARS reviews information submitted by prospective operators with reference to a range of considerations relevant to student accommodation, including the living environment, facilities, operational arrangements, and student support provisions.
Where relevant, additional features such as communal spaces and community-oriented living arrangements may also be taken into account. The review process is intended to provide a structured basis for considering participation in the Scheme and to support the provision of student-oriented off-campus accommodation options.
Application
The Scheme accepts applications year-round. Applicants may submit an application at any time, and assessments will be conducted on a rolling basis. Results may be announced periodically, subject to application volume and readiness.
Submission
Applicants should complete the online form and upload all required supporting documents. Additional information may be requested during the assessment.
Enquiries
HKU CEDARS Housing
- Tel: +852 3917 2305
- Email: cedars.housing@hku.hk
