The Technological and Higher Education Institute of Hong Kong (THEi) is advancing towards becoming a “University of Applied Sciences (UAS).” This ongoing transition, combined with the increasing demand for applied talent, has resulted in a record high in admission applications for its degree programmes for the 2025/26 academic year. As of the end of June, THEi has received over 16,000 admission applications for its degree programmes, representing an increase of nearly 40% compared to last year. This surge underscores the growing recognition of vocational education among parents and students. Graduates can enhance their future employment prospects by acquiring practical skills and knowledge.
63% Increase in Year 1 Applications from Local Students
THEi is committed to nurturing work-ready graduates. In the 2025/26 academic year, the Institute offers over 20 self-financed degree programmes and the “Study Subsidy Scheme for Designated Professions/Sector Degree Programmes (SSSDP).” This year, the Institute has recorded impressive results, with a nearly 63% growth in applications for the Year 1 intake from local students.
Among the applied science-oriented programmes, those from the Department of Hospitality and Business Management are the most popular. The Institute believes this popularity is primarily due to the proactive promotion of the mega events economy by the HKSAR Government in recent years, which has increased the demand for professionals in the tourism and hospitality sectors. Following closely are the programmes from the Department of Digital Innovation and Technology, driven by the growing global demand for talent with digital skills. This trend encourages students to focus on these areas to enhance their competitiveness in the job market.
Prof Alan LAU Kin-tak, President of THEi, emphasised that the Institution regularly adjusts its programmes to align with industry trends, ensuring the curriculum seamlessly matches real-world applications. The programmes are enhanced based on projected talent requirements for the next three to five years, preparing students with the skills that employers most desire upon graduation. He noted that the significant increase in student enrolment in recent years reflects a growing recognition of and demand for vocational education, which enables graduates to thrive in the job market.
76% Increase in Year 1 Applications from Non-local Students
Driven by the promotion of “Study in Hong Kong”, THEi has seen a significant increase of 76% in applications for Year 1 Intake from non-local students. With the approval of the Education Bureau, the admission quota for students from Mainland, Macau, and Taiwan will be increased to 20% starting from the 2025/26 academic year. Within this framework, THEi will leverage the flexibility and diversity of self-financing institutions to cultivate graduates equipped with practical knowledge and skills, helping businesses fill the talent gap and promoting Hong Kong as an international hub for high-calibre talents.
Additionally, to enhance the learning environment and accommodation options, THEi is actively seeking a new campus within Taikoo area. The plan includes increasing the number of classrooms to support teaching and activities, aiming for completion by the 2025/26 academic year. The Institution is also collaborating with business partner to identify suitable hotels and commercial projects on Hong Kong Island for conversion into student dormitories. Discussions are ongoing with Y Loft at Youth Square. It is estimated that at least 250 to 350 beds will be provided to meet future needs.
For more information about THEi’s bachelor’s degree programmes for the 2025/26 academic year, visit: thei.edu.hk/admission/ .
