Details

• China
• MASCM-21
• Graduate
• WS 2025
• Time spent at the partner university: 3 months

1. Preparation

Tips for the application process at WU In my case, partner universities were allocated based on a ranking system. For the Master in Supply Chain Management, GPA is the key selection criterion. When applying, it is important to carefully review the course offerings of each university and ensure that the courses can be recognized at WU. I recommend contacting the program manager early on to clarify recognition for specific universities or courses. Tips for preparing your semester abroad When preparing for a semester in Hong Kong, it is essential to be aware of the high costs involved, especially for accommodation. Budget carefully for rent, daily living expenses, leisure activities, and travel. I strongly recommend starting the planning process as soon as the exchange place is confirmed and not delaying key arrangements such as accommodation, flights, and insurance.

2. Accommodation

Accommodation search experience Master’s exchange students in my year were not offered on-campus accommodation, which is usually more affordable. Therefore, I searched online for furnished rooms that could be rented for a few months. I found that co-living spaces are a common and practical option in Hong Kong. Accommodation type I eventually stayed in a co-living residence with a private room and bathroom at Nathan Residences on the Kowloon side. The monthly rent was slightly above 1,000 EUR. In general, there is a wide range of accommodation available in Hong Kong; the main challenge is the high price level. Location, safety, and proximity to the university Hong Kong is overall very safe, even late at night. CUHK is located in the northern part of Hong Kong, but it is directly connected by MTR, which makes commuting convenient. From my accommodation, the travel time to CUHK was a little over 30 minutes. In general, any accommodation with good access to the MTR is suitable. Tips I wish I’d known beforehand It is important to consider class locations when choosing accommodation. As I attended several MBA courses at CUHK, some classes were held off-campus, mainly at the Bank of America Tower in Admiralty on Hong Kong Island. This is worth keeping in mind when selecting where to live.

3. Academic life at host university

Campus infrastructure The CUHK campus is very large and well equipped. Free shuttle buses operate within the campus, making it easy to move around. Students have access to various sports facilities, including tennis and badminton courts, swimming pools, and other recreational areas at no additional cost. The campus also offers a modern and pleasant library for studying. Academic culture and teaching style I was enrolled in the MBA program, where academic and social life is strongly centered around the program itself. Many students have several years of professional experience, which enriches class discussions, as lecturers frequently encourage students to contribute insights from their own work backgrounds. The teaching style is similar to MBA programs in the United States and is generally very interactive. In many courses, in-class participation is graded, although this depends on the lecturer. Courses compared to WU Vienna Compared to WU Vienna, assessments in the MBA program place less emphasis on midterm and final exams. Instead, there is a stronger focus on attendance, active class participation, and group projects, which contribute significantly to the final grade.

5. Every day life in the host country

Public transport and safety Public transport in Hong Kong is very affordable and extremely convenient. The MTR and bus network cover the entire city and make getting around fast and easy. Hong Kong is also very safe at all times of the day, even late at night. Social life, leisure activities, and sports Hong Kong offers a wide range of social and leisure activities. The vibrant city life is combined with easy access to nature, as beaches and hiking trails are reachable within about an hour. The city also offers a diverse and high-quality food scene, with cuisines from all over the world. Events and international atmosphere As an international city, Hong Kong regularly hosts cultural, business, and social events. This makes it easy to meet people from different backgrounds and ensures an active and diverse social life throughout the semester.

6. Testimonial

Overall, I fell in love with both the city and the exchange experience. Hong Kong is a place I would happily return to, both personally and professionally. From a career perspective, it is an important international business hub, and I was able to build valuable connections during my time there. On a personal level, I made close friends from many different countries and experienced the city in a depth that would not be possible during a short visit. Beyond its impressive skyline and vibrant city life, Hong Kong also offers nature, cultural diversity, and an international atmosphere unlike anywhere else I have experienced.