Australia has solidified its position as one of the most popular overseas education destinations among Hong Kong students, ranking third behind Mainland China and the United Kingdom, according to the latest data from the Education Bureau.
The 2024 Secondary School Graduates’ Pathways Survey reveals that of the 41,385 students who reported their post-secondary school plans, 39,129 (94.5%) chose to pursue full-time education. Among them, 3,061 students—accounting for 7.8%—opted to study abroad.
Australia attracted 338 Hong Kong students in 2024, surpassing destinations such as Taiwan (309 students), Canada (149), and the United States (67). Mainland China remained the leading destination, drawing 1,339 students, followed by the U.K. with 647.
Among the students who studied abroad, the majority—2,676—were enrolled in bachelor’s degree programmes. Additionally, 238 students pursued higher diploma courses and 147 joined other full-time academic programmes. This trend reflects a growing interest in international education options, particularly those offering comprehensive study abroad guides and clear academic pathways.
The data underscores Australia’s appeal as a study abroad destination, driven by its world-class universities, multicultural environment, and well-established support systems for international students. The rising number of Hong Kong students choosing Australia suggests a strategic shift toward more globally connected education and career opportunities.
Meanwhile, 923 graduates from the same cohort entered full-time employment, 878 combined part-time work with study, and 455 were not engaged in employment or education. These figures remain broadly consistent with trends observed in 2023.
Within Hong Kong, the distribution of full-time study choices included 19,025 students enrolled in bachelor’s degree programmes, 13,160 in higher diplomas, 6,870 in other full-time studies, and 74 who chose to repeat Form Six.
As global academic mobility continues to evolve, the growing popularity of Australian education among Hong Kong students highlights the importance of strategic overseas partnerships and the expanding influence of study abroad programs in shaping future talent.
