Dreaming of Studying in the UK? Key Insights for Hong Kong and International Students
- Sylvia Yip
- 5 days ago
- 6 min read
Author: Sylvia Yip
Home to some of the world’s top universities to study law, the UK is a popular destination for students from Hong Kong, and also the origin of Hong Kong’s own legal system. Undoubtedly, adjusting to university as a new environment is never easy, but living more than 9,000 km from home brings its own set of challenges. If leveraged well, it can lead to cultural and personal growth, so it’s crucial to decide wisely before taking the leap and learn how to make the most of this academic opportunity going into it.
Cultural adjustment for Hong Kong & international students studying in the UK
From navigating academic expectations and adapting to new teaching styles to interacting with people from diverse backgrounds, adjusting to university life in the UK requires time, patience and a good deal of flexibility.
One of the biggest shifts students' encounters is in teaching styles. Higher education in the UK tends to be more independent and student-led, with a strong emphasis on self-motivation and personal accountability. I have found that professors expect students to be proactive, take ownership of their studies, and manage their time effectively. Therefore, learning to keep yourself accountable is the key to success.
On a more personal level, learning how to connect with peers in a diverse community and embracing unfamiliar cultures are important life skills. Homesickness is common among international students, especially when visiting home often is not simple, sustainable or affordable. Fortunately, joining student societies and connecting with other students who share a similar background may offer a sense of community and support.
Societies such as HKPASS (Hong Kong Public Affairs and Social Service Society) and the Chinese Society have large and active networks across the UK, organising regular socials and collaborating with each other. This provides a platform for Hong Kong students to network and meet like-minded students to settle in more smoothly.
Cost of living and tuition fees in the UK
It’s no secret that studying in the UK can be a significant financial commitment. Tuition fees for international students are considerably higher than in Hong Kong, and living costs can add up quickly, especially in major cities such as London. Day-to-day expenses such as housing, transport and meals all require careful budgeting to maintain spending at a sustainable level.
As opposed to the convenience in Hong Kong, affordable food options that match your taste may be harder to come by in the UK. For example, a simple Chinese meal may easily cost £15 or more in London, so learning to cook is an essential skill to limit expenditure. Recreating your favorite recipes from home can also ease homesickness, and sharing your cuisine with friends could be an enjoyable activity.
Of course, cooking may take time away from studying or personal time, so learning to prepare healthy meals in bulk can help with time management and keeping your budget in check.
To ease the financial burden of tuition fees, students may also explore scholarships for UK universities, such as those offered by the Jardine Foundation or HKSES, and university-specific awards.
Similar, But Not Same Jurisdictions
Although both the UK and Hong Kong operate under common law systems, there are important distinctions in practice, procedure and legal principles. This makes it essential for prospective applicants to take a holistic view and consider where they intend to practice law after graduation.
If your goal is to work in Hong Kong, research on how a law degree from the UK may translate and the steps necessary to qualify as a lawyer back home is necessary. That said, studying law in the UK exposes students to a wealth of international opportunities. For example, European Law is a compulsory module in the first year of LLB studies at King’s College London, while optional modules such as European Competition Law may be chosen to deepen their understanding of global legal systems.
English law is also a well-established jurisdiction for specialist areas such as maritime law, international arbitration, finance and commercial law, many of which are rooted in the strength and tradition of the English legal systems. Here, students are given ample opportunities to explore and develop their knowledge in these specialists, which may be taken into account when considering studying in the UK.
Location, Location, Location
When choosing which universities to apply to, location may matter more than you think. For example, many top law firms are based in London, and studying in the city offers access to attending open days and networking events. London is also often referred to as a big mixing pot of cultures, and the busy city life may feel more like ‘home’ to those familiar with Hong Kong.
On the other hand, cities such as Bath and Durham offer a quieter environment with strong campus communities. These universities often have more spacious campuses, fostering a stronger sense of campus community, which may appeal to those looking for a calmer study environment.
Ultimately, this depends on each person’s personality and the environments they thrive in, so this should not be overlooked to ensure an enriching university experience in the UK.
Plan and Think Carefully
Studying far from home encourages independence, resilience and growth, but it’s not without its challenges. Choosing to pursue a degree in law in the UK is one which warrants careful thought and planning. Hopefully, this article has shed light on some key areas to consider as you weigh your options and helped you feel more supported in a decision that could lead to a transformative university experience.
A Day in My Life as a Campus Ambassador in the UK
To bring these experiences to life, I’ve created a short video: “A Day in Sylvia's life as a Campus Ambassador”. As a Hong Kong student studying law in the UK, at King’s College London, I share what a typical day looks like; from lectures and study sessions to exploring the city and connecting with fellow students. If you're curious about what life in London really feels like, this video offers a personal window into the journey. I hope it helps you picture your own path and feel more confident about taking the leap!
FAQ
Why is the UK a popular destination for Hong Kong students studying law?
The UK is home to prestigious law schools and shares a common law system with Hong Kong, making it a natural choice for legal studies.
What are the main cultural challenges students face?
Students often need to adapt to independent learning styles, diverse social environments, and manage homesickness. Joining societies like HKPASS and the Chinese Society can help ease the transition.
How much does it cost to study law in the UK?
Tuition fees for international students are significantly higher than in Hong Kong. Living costs, especially in cities like London, can be steep. Budgeting and learning to cook are essential skills.
Are there scholarships available for Hong Kong students?
Yes. Scholarships such as those from the Jardine Foundation, HKSES, and university-specific awards can help reduce financial burden.
Does a UK law degree qualify me to practice in Hong Kong?
Not directly. While both jurisdictions follow common law, additional steps are required to qualify in Hong Kong. Researching conversion pathways is essential.
What are the benefits of studying law in the UK beyond Hong Kong?
UK law degrees offer exposure to international legal systems, including European and commercial law, which can open doors globally.
How does university location affect my experience?
London offers proximity to top law firms and cultural familiarity, while cities like Bath and Durham provide quieter, community-focused environments. Choose based on your personality and goals.
Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this article it is general in nature and does not constitute legal advice of any kind. You should seek your own personal legal advice before taking legal action. We accept no liability whatsoever for loss arising out of the use or misuse of this article.
Campus Ambassador at King's College London 2024/25
Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sylvia-yip/
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