Best universities in Hong Kong 2025

Top 3 universities in Hong Kong 

Scroll down for the full list of best universities in Hong Kong 

Hong Kong is home to some of the highest-ranked Asian universities. The densely populated city state not only produces excellent academic research in a broad range of disciplines but is also home to impressive campuses and social programmes.

Many university programmes are taught in English, as both the student bodies and faculties are extremely international. Studying in Hong Kong as an international student will also provide a great opportunity to learn Chinese.

Living in a large metropolis has advantages and disadvantages. On the one hand, you will be in the midst of the cultural and business buzz but on the other hand you will have to learn the tricks for making your living expenses more affordable.

The best Hong Kong higher education institutions also have strong links with employers; this ensures a high rate of employment for their graduates. Because the city acts as a bridge between China and the rest of the world in both financial and cultural terms, there are plenty of employment opportunities in Hong Kong.

These are some of the best universities in Hong Kong based on the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025.

The top 5 universities in Hong Kong

1. University of Hong Kong

The University of Hong Kong is one of Hong Kong’s oldest higher education institutions, and one of Asia’s best universities.

The university’s staff is as international as its student body, and all programmes are taught in English as well as Chinese.

Its academic excellence attracts students from Hong Kong as well as mainland China, Asia and the rest of the world, and leads to a good graduate employment rate.

Alongside a core curriculum, you can study architecture, arts, business and economics, dentistry, education, law, medicine, science and social sciences at the University of Hong Kong.

The institution encourages social engagement through volunteering and has a broad network of international employers offering internships to its students and graduates.

2. Chinese University of Hong Kong

Set up in 1963, the Chinese University of Hong Kong is one of Asia’s most international and prestigious universities.

Most degrees at the university are taught in English. The institution regularly hosts talks by world-leading academics.

Its scholars and students conduct research in five national laboratories and more than 100 research institutes. Among these, one of the most prominent research hubs is the Childhood Bilingualism Research Centre in the department of linguistics and modern languages.

Notable alumni and staff include four Nobel laureates, including former vice-chancellor Sir Charles Kao, who was awarded the Nobel Prize in physics in 2009. In addition, the university boasts winners of Turing Awards, Veblen Prizes and Fields Medals, and Rhodes scholars.

The campus is situated on the spectacular Tolo Harbour. 

3. The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology

Founded in 1991, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology focuses on teaching and research in science and technology. 

Its research and teaching are particularly strong in technology, engineering and business management.

The university has close ties with more than 250 universities around the world and it places a particular focus on interdisciplinary studies.

The stunning setting overlooking the ocean makes it an even more attractive academic destination.

Notable alumni include Henry T. Yang, chancellor at the University of California, Santa Barbara, writer and sociologist Ambrose King, entrepreneur Chan Yik Hei and actress Myolie Wu.

4. City University of Hong Kong

City University of Hong Kong was established in 1994.

The university offers degrees in business, liberal arts and social sciences, science, engineering, creative media, energy and environment, and law. The veterinary medicine programme was established in 2015 in partnership with Cornell University.

Its international character is reflected in its diverse body of students and staff. The university is particularly committed to sustainability in its practices and research.

The institution is located in Kowloon. One of its buildings, the 2010 Creative Media Centre designed by Studio Daniel Libeskind with Leigh & Orange Architects, made it into CNN’s list of the top 10 most impressive university buildings.

Famous alumni include Christine Loh OBE, undersecretary for the environment and founder of the Hong Kong Human Rights Monitor and the Citizens Party; Rimsky Yuen, lawyer and secretary for justice for Hong Kong; and stand-up comedian Vivek Mahbubani.

5. Hong Kong Polytechnic University

Hong Kong Polytechnic University was founded in 1972.

It offers a broad range of degrees in applied science and textiles, business, tourism management, construction and environment, engineering, health and social sciences, and design and humanities.

Since 2001, the university has offered associate degrees and higher diploma programmes to senior secondary school leavers.

Some of its notable research projects include the development of a drug to cure liver cancer called BCT-100, safety monitoring of high-speed rail, nanoparticles for purifying dirty water, and electronic “bat ears” to assist the visually impaired.

One of the most striking campus buildings is the Jockey Club Innovation Tower, designed by Zaha Hadid, which hosts design lectures, workshops and exhibitions.

Top universities in Hong Kong 2025

Click each institution to view its full World University Rankings 2025 results