Undergraduate Admissions

The Department of Computer Science and Engineering at HKUST is among the largest computer science departments in Hong Kong. We offer internationally recognized computer science programs with more than 600 undergraduate students, as well as around 80 MPhil (Master of Philosophy) and 350 PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) research postgraduate students. The multicultural environment of HKUST in general and the Department in particular, with professors and students coming from all over the world, help our students prepare well for the globalization trend. Our Department is being recognized by international peers as the best computer science department and the artificial intelligence/data science academic unit in Hong Kong, in terms of both research record and diversity of educational programs offered.

• Ranked No. 31 in Computer Science in the world (No. 1 in Hong Kong for 8 consecutive yeras) according to the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2024.
• Ranked No. 32 in Computer Science and Information Systems in the world (No. 1 in Hong Kong) according to the QS World University Rankings 2024.
• Ranked No. 10 in Data Science & Artificial Intelligence in the world (No. 1 in Hong Kong) according to the QS World University Rankings 2024.

All undergraduate admissions are handled by the HKUST Undergraduate Admissions. For more information about the undergraduate majors in Computer Science or Artificial Intelligence, please visit our Undergraduate Programs.

Beginning with the 2025 intake, we have adopted a dual-track admission framework, offering both department-based and school-based admissions for students interested in pursuing Computer Science or Artificial Intelligence.

A. Department-based admission

Through department-based admission, students who have a confirmed interest in Computer Science and Engineering (e.g., Computer Science Major and Artificial Intelligence Major) can seek admission directly to our department. By the end of their first academic year, they can freely choose between a BEng in Computer Science (COMP) or a BEng in Artificial Intelligence (AI). If they are interested in pursuing a double major with a BSc in Computer Science (COSC) as one of their majors, they can submit an application after completing their first academic year.

Admissions requirements for different qualifications:

1. JUPAS
   • JUPAS Program: Department of Computer Science and Engineering
   • Year of Study: 4
   • JUPAS Code: JS5240
2. International Qualifications (e.g., American Pattern / British Pattern / IB)
3. Mainland Gaokao (JEE)
4. Post-Secondary Qualifications (Senior year entry only)

B. School-based admission

The School of Engineering will continue to offer the school-based admission choice Engineering with an Extended Major in Artificial Intelligence. Students admitted through this pathway can participate in major selection exercise through which they may enter the Department of Computer Science and Engineering (CSE)*. However, please note that entry into the CSE Program via school-based admission is highly competitive due to limited quotas. Learn more about school-based admission.

* Students who are admitted to Engineering with Extended Major in AI (i.e. the school-based admission choice) are also required to drop the Extended Major in AI if they enter the Department of CSE.