TOEFL Requirements for Hong Kong Universities in 2025

Hong Kong’s universities are highly selective, with many programs taught in English or requiring strong English proficiency. If you're applying as an international student, a TOEFL iBT® score is often a key part of your application. Knowing the exact cut-off for each institution helps you prepare strategically and avoid last-minute surprises. Let’s explore the TOEFL requirements for Hong Kong University (HKU), Chinese University (CUHK), PolyU, HKUST, and HKBU for 2025 admissions.

University of Hong Kong (HKU)

HKU is one of Asia’s top-ranked universities. For 2025 admissions, the English requirement specifies:

• TOEFL iBT: Minimum 93, in a single sitting

• Accepted Test Forms: Only the standard TOEFL iBT taken at a test centre; home edition is not accepted.

Why it matters: HKU places high emphasis on a well-rounded score, ensuring students can handle English-medium lectures and assignments. Aim to exceed 95+ to be competitive.

Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK)

CUHK offers multiple English-medium programs at the undergrad level, including Arts, Sciences, and Business. For non-local applicants:

• TOEFL iBT: Minimum 80, in a single sitting.

• Score Validity & Deadline: Must be taken within 2 years of application

Advice: While 80 is enough to meet the baseline, many competitive programs (e.g., Business, Engineering) prefer scores above 90. If possible, aim for 85+.

Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU)

PolyU offers English-medium undergraduate and postgraduate programs in design, technology, and business.

• TOEFL iBT: Minimum 80, in a single sitting

Note: Home-edition TOEFL scores are not accepted. A minimum of 80 demonstrates basic readiness, though higher scores help with more competitive courses.

Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST)

HKUST is known for STEM, business, and research-oriented programs. As an international applicant, you must submit:

• TOEFL iBT: Minimum 80, taken at a physical test centre.

Further insight: HKUST emphasizes overall performance—strong Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing scores boost your application, even though 80 is the baseline.

Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU)

HKBU offers a mix of English-medium undergraduate and postgraduate programs in humanities, sciences, and performing arts.

• TOEFL iBT: Minimum 79, in a single sitting

Tip: Aim for 80+ to clearly meet the requirement. A balanced score across all sections will support your application in English-based majors.

Tips to Meet or Exceed Requirements

To ensure your TOEFL score makes you stand out:

1. Set a clear target: Aim for 90+ to exceed minimum requirements and strengthen your application.

2. Study all four skills: Focus equally on Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing.

3. Use full-length practice tests: Emulate real exam conditions to build stamina and improve pacing.

4. Start early: Register and prepare at least 3 months before deadlines—scores need time to be sent and processed.

5. Send scores promptly: Use ETS’s service to send results directly, and verify the correct institution codes.

6. Avoid home edition formats: All major universities require centre-based TOEFL iBT scores.

I hope this blog on TOEFL requirements for Hong Kong universities in 2025 clarifies exactly what scores you need and why they matter. Most institutions expect at least an 80 iBT, with HKU requiring 93. Preparing well in advance and aiming high will give you a significant advantage in admission and scholarship opportunities. Good luck with your applications to these prestigious Hong Kong universities!