Choosing your residence option
What types of HKU residences are available?
HKU residences include Residential Halls, Residential Colleges, Postgraduate Residences, and other University-admin housing (e.g., Student Flats). There are also non-residential halls you can join without living in a hall.
What’s the difference between Residential Halls and Residential Colleges?
Residential Halls
Tradition & spirit: Halls have a long history at HKU, with strong traditions and a distinct hall culture. Many students find a strong sense of belonging and “hall spirit”.
Demographics: The vast majority of places are for undergraduates (about 98%). Places are typically shared between local and non-local students.
Room types: Most rooms are shared; few single rooms are available.
Student life: Hall life often centres on sports, social activities, and building a close internal community.
Residential Colleges
Modern environment: Residential Colleges are generally newer, with room facilities comparable to halls.
Demographics: They house undergraduates (including exchange students) and postgraduates, with a higher proportion of non-local students.
Room types: Mostly shared rooms, with a higher share of single rooms than halls.
Student life: Residential Colleges often place greater emphasis on service-learning, cultural activities, and community projects, sometimes connected to the local neighbourhood.
What is “other University-admin housing”? Who is it for?
“Other University-admin housing” refers to HKU-managed flats administered by CEDARS. They are part of the University’s housing options (not private rentals) and offer a flat-style living setup rather than the hall/college model. These flats are intended for students who need an alternative University housing option to help them settle into Hong Kong. Newly arriving non-local students are prioritised, while other students are also welcome, subject to availability.
Can I still be part of hall life if I don’t live in a hall?
Yes. You can join a non-residential hall as a non-residential member and still take part in hall events, culture, and inter-hall activities.
Applying for HKU Residences
How do I apply for HKU residences?
Submit your application through the HKU Portal and review the steps on the Residence Application page. Please check the details for your student category: https://housing.cedars.hku.hk/university-accommodation/residence-application
Are places guaranteed?
Places in HKU residences are limited and not guaranteed. We strongly encourage you to explore non-university accommodation options early, so you have a back-up plan in case you are not offered a residence place.
I have an HKID but I’m living outside Hong Kong. Am I treated as a non‑local student for residence applications?
Your local/non-local status is based on your HKU residency registration, not your current address. Please check your registration status before applying.
I’m an incoming exchange/visiting student (with or without HKID). How do I apply?
Please check the details for the Exchange Students category and review the steps on the Residence Application page.
I didn’t apply for HKU Residences in Year 1. Can I still apply later?
Yes. You can apply for Residences in later years. You may also apply for available vacancies during the residential year through the Central Clearing House platform.
What if I miss the round / my application is unsuccessful?
If you miss or fail an application, you can check remaining vacancies and apply via the Central Clearing House platform.
Can I appeal if my application is unsuccessful?
Yes. If your application for an HKU residence is unsuccessful, you may submit an appeal, but please note that appeals are not guaranteed.
You can submit an appeal through the HKU Portal within 72 hours of the release of results; or
you can contact the General Office of the residence.
Please follow the appeal instructions shown in your application result notice or on the Residence Application page, as procedures may differ by category. If your appeal is unsuccessful or no places are available, we recommend checking the Central Clearing House platform and preparing non‑university accommodation options as a backup plan.
Can I secure an HKU residence for my entire degree?
HKU residence offers are made on a yearly basis. In your first year, CEDARS will assist with your placement. For subsequent years, students must apply for readmission each April; assessments are based on your performance, participation, and contributions during the year.
Please note that HKU residences are highly competitive and availability may vary.
What are the selection criteria and requirements for admission and readmission to Residential Halls and Colleges?
Each residence sets its own criteria for admission and readmission and makes offers directly to applicants. Please refer to the Hall Admission Guideline or contact the Hall/College Management Team of the residence for further information.
Moving in, check‑in, and what to bring
When can I check in?
Check‑in timing depends on the year/round and your assigned residence. Please refer to the Residence Application page for check‑in periods. Latecomers are advised to confirm arrangements with the General Office.
I’m arriving outside office hours (e.g., weekend/night). What should I do?
Check‑in is typically during office hours (Mon–Fri, 9am–5pm). If you need to arrive outside these hours, contact your residence’s General Office after receiving your offer to arrange special check‑in.
What happens if I arrive early (before the official check‑in period)?
If you arrive early, your room may not be ready. Please contact your residence’s General Office in advance to confirm availability.
What is provided in my room? What should I bring?
Your room is moderately furnished with essential items, including a bed, mattress, wardrobe, study desk, chair, lamp, lighting, a LAN port with Wi‑Fi access, and an air‑conditioner (operated by prepaid card). Please bring your own sleeping accessories, such as a pillow, bedding, bed sheets, and pillowcases.
Can I cook in the residence?
HKU Residences have a self‑catering pantry (sink, cupboards, hot plate, microwave, fridge) for simple meals. Facilities vary by residence—please follow its safety and cleanliness guidelines.
Residential support, settling-in, rules and regulations
What are the general rules in HKU Residences?
Respect: All residents are expected to treat staff and fellow residents with respect at all times.
Quiet Hours: Typically from 11:00 PM to 7:00 AM, or during other periods specified by your residence.
Visitor Policy: Visitors are only permitted during non-quiet hours and must be registered. Overnight guests are generally not allowed.
No Smoking/Vaping: Smoking and vaping are strictly prohibited in all HKU campuses, including residences.
Alcohol Policy: Alcohol is not permitted in the HKU Residences unless authorized by the Hall Warden/College Master.
Prohibited Items: Unauthorised electrical devices, candles, pets, and illegal substances are not allowed.
For detailed regulations, see the Regulations Governing Halls and Flats and the house rules of your assigned residence. You may contact the General Office or Tutorial Team for assistance.Who can help and support me in an HKU residence?
Each hall/college is supported by a Tutorial Team and an administrative General Office.
Tutorial Team: Led by the Warden/College Master and supported by live‑in tutors (Senior Resident Tutors, Resident Tutors, Junior Resident Tutors). They provide admissions support, pastoral care, settling‑in assistance, community activities, conflict resolution, and handle disciplinary matters.
General Office: Handles repairs and maintenance, check-in/check-out, lodging fee payments, housekeeping/cleaning, security services, and summer residence application.
Are there rules about electrical appliances (kettles, air fryers, induction hobs, heaters, etc.)?
Please refer to the Guidelines on Using Additional Electrical Appliance and the application form.
What should I do if I want to move out early?
Please contact your residence’s General Office to complete the check-out process and return all keys. No refund or partial refund is available for early check-out if you have accepted an offer for a specified semester or period.
Can I request a specific roommate?
HKU promotes integration and cultural exchange. Since 2023–24, the residence General Office assigns roommates in shared rooms, pairing local and non‑local students whenever possible. This policy applies to both new students and returning students who previously lived in another residence.
Living at HKU Residences
What should I do if I lose my key / lock myself out?
You can get a spare key from the security counter or General Office, but a penalty charge applies for temporary use and a replacement.
How do I receive parcels and mail at my residence?
Mail will be delivered to your mailbox in the lobby.
Parcels and deliveries will be placed in the designated area at the entrance.
Please observe the residence’s housekeeping rules. You are responsible for your personal belongings; the residence is not liable for any loss or damage.
What should I do if I have a problem with my roommate/flatmate?
Co‑living is an important part of residential education, and we encourage residents to learn from and support one another. If an issue arises, first try to address it respectfully with your roommate/flatmate. If the concern persists, please contact your Floor Tutor for advice and assistance.
How do I make a maintenance request, and what’s the usual response time?
Please report the issue to the General Office or the security counter. Response and repair times vary depending on the nature and urgency of the request.
What are the fire safety and evacuation procedures?
Please refer to the Fire Safety Measures Guideline.
What should I do in an emergency at night (who is on duty and how to reach them)?
In case of a nighttime emergency, contact the residential tutor or security guard for assistance. Their contact information will be provided to you during check-in.
Fees, payments, refunds
How do I pay lodging fees?
International wire transfer to the HKU bank account
Local bank transfer within Hong Kong
Alipay or WeChat Pay
Cash payment at the Bank of East Asia branch on the HKU Main Campus
Please refer to your invoice for detailed instructions and account information.
I can’t pay by the due date, what can I do?
If you cannot pay by the due date, you may apply for a fee deferment. For details, please visit https://www.cedars.hku.hk/campuslife/finances/fee-deferment and contact the Fee Deferment (UG) Team at feedefer@hku.hk.
Are lodging fees refundable or transferable?
No. HKU residence fees are non‑refundable and non‑transferable. If you change to another residence within the same semester, you are required to pay the fees for both residences.
Is there any financial assistance/bursary related to housing costs?
Local students may apply for financial assistance from the Government and/or CEDARS. For more information: https://www.cedars.hku.hk/cedars-financial-resources.
Financial assistance is not available for non-local students.
Staying during holidays, moving out, and changes
Can I stay during semester breaks and long holidays (e.g., Christmas/Lunar New Year)?
If you have a confirmed residence offer for the whole residential year, you can stay during breaks/long holidays, the residence remains open during these periods.
Can I stay during the summer (June to early August)?
Summer stays require a separate Summer Residence application, which usually opens in March/April. Please check the Residence Application page or contact your residence’s General Office for the latest announcements.
Can I transfer to another residence?
There is no direct transfer process. You must check out of your current residence, complete all procedures (including returning keys), and submit a new application for another residence. Please note that fees are non‑refundable and non‑transferable.
Can I keep my place if I’m on Leave of Absence (LOA) for my internship?
No. HKU residences are for active, full‑time students. If you are on LOA, you are not eligible to stay and may reapply when you resume your studies.
Short‑term options and special housing needs
I need short‑term housing, what are my options?
Guest rooms (limited; contact General Office of the residence directly)
Hotels/hostels (see the Non‑University Accommodation options)
Short‑term stays via Central Clearing House platform (minimum 30 days)
I have a disability, medical condition, or mental health condition—can I request special housing arrangements?
Yes. Students with documented needs may request special housing arrangements. Please contact CEDARS CoPE SEN Support team for assistance.
Renting non-university accommodation
Where do I start if I need to rent non-university accommodation?
Visit the Non-University Accommodation Options and Advising Support pages to explore options outside University residences. A step-by-step “Renting Your First Accommodation” guide is also available there.
