How I Secured a Fully Funded Bachelor's at The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), Hong Kong Through the HKSAR Government Belt and Road Scholarship

My name is Stephanie Kowinto from Indonesia. I am a rising sophomore at The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), pursuing an Integrated Bachelor of Business Administration (IBBA) with concentrations in Finance and Business Analytics.

I chose CUHK’s IBBA programme because of its flexible and exploratory curriculum. During the first year, students build a strong foundation in subjects such as economics and accounting while exploring their interests and potential career paths. From the second year onwards, students may choose up to two concentrations. This structure allows me to explore different career paths and specialised knowledge according to the field I’m interested in.

HKSAR Government Belt and Road Scholarship Details

I received the following awards:

• HKSAR Government Belt and Road Scholarship

Awarded by the Hong Kong SAR Government, this scholarship covers my full annual tuition fee of HK$178,000, as well as a one-time relocation allowance of HK$15,000.

• CUHK Business School Admission Scholarship

Awarded by CUHK Business School, this scholarship provides approximately HK$47,000 per year to cover expenses beyond tuition, including accommodation and part of my living costs.

• Honours at Entrance, CUHK

This is a non-monetary academic distinction awarded in recognition of my admission achievements.

Were You Offered Any Other Scholarships?

In addition to the scholarships above, I received the following offers:

• The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK): A full-tuition scholarship worth HK$178,000 per year offered by CUHK’s admission. I received this scholarship before I received the HKSAR Government Belt and Road Scholarship.
• The University of Hong Kong (HKU): A full-tuition scholarship.
• The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST): A full-tuition scholarship for all programmes (2 majors) to which I applied.
• City University of Hong Kong (CityU): A top scholarship covering full tuition fees, accommodation, and a living allowance for all programmes (3 majors) to which I applied.

National University of Singapore (NUS): A tuition grant.

Educational Background

Before beginning my undergraduate studies, I pursued a science stream in high school, studying Biology, Physics, and Chemistry. I graduated with a cumulative GPA of 97.74/100.

Although my high school background was in science, I decided to pursue business, finance, and business analytics because I was interested in how data, financial decisions, and business strategy influence real-world outcomes. This interest developed further when my team won third place in a skincare business competition in Grade 11.

My science background also strengthened my analytical thinking, problem-solving ability, and attention to detail. These skills have continued to support my academic performance and participation in university competitions and organisations.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to The Chinese University of Hong Kong?

How Did You Find Information About HKSAR Government Belt and Road Scholarship and The Chinese University of Hong Kong?

I began by reviewing official university websites to understand each institution’s programmes, admission requirements, scholarship opportunities, and application deadlines. I also spoke with seniors and current students who had received scholarships or were studying at those universities. Their experiences gave me practical insights into the application process, student life, and ways to prepare a stronger application.

Did You Take Any Standardized Tests? If So, How Did You Prepare for Them?

I took the IELTS examination as part of my university applications. To prepare, I attended an IELTS course every weekend and familiarised myself with the test format, assessment criteria, and time-management strategies for each section. I began preparing towards the end of the first semester of Grade 11 and took the test at the beginning of the second semester.

How Did You Prepare to Apply for the HKSAR Government Belt and Road Scholarship?

I prepared for scholarship applications by maintaining strong academic performance throughout high school and actively participating in organisations, competitions, and community-service activities.

Before the first application round began, I prepared my key documents, including my portfolio, CV, personal statement, and IELTS results. I also sought advice from seniors and current students at my target universities to better understand scholarship expectations and university life. This helped me present an application that reflected both my academic achievements and my involvement beyond the classroom.

How is Your Experience at The Chinese University of Hong Kong?

My first year at CUHK has been meaningful and transformative. Living independently has taught me to manage my time and balance my studies, extracurricular activities, and daily responsibilities.

I have also met many supportive friends and professors, and these relationships have made my university experience more enriching. Through both academic and extracurricular experiences, I have gained a clearer understanding of my interests, strengths, and areas that I would like to explore further.

How Do You Rate The Chinese University of Hong Kong Academically?

I would rate CUHK highly because it provides a rigorous and high-quality academic environment. I value not only the quality of the courses, but also the opportunity to connect with supportive professors and learn from their academic and professional perspectives. This has made my learning experience more engaging and personally meaningful.

How Does The Chinese University of Hong Kong Support International Students?

CUHK supports international students through a diverse and inclusive campus community. Student organisations, including the Indonesian student association, help students build connections and adjust to university life through social, cultural, and community-based activities.

The university also holds many cultural events that bring together students from different countries. These events provide opportunities to learn about one another’s cultures through food, traditions, performances, and shared activities. Together with the support of my friends and professors, these experiences have helped me adapt comfortably to both university life and the wider Hong Kong community.

Are Your Classes Conducted in English or Cantonese?

All of my classes are conducted in English.

What Did You Pursue After the HKSAR Government Belt and Road Scholarship?

During my first year, I actively pursued academic, leadership, and professional-development opportunities. I participated in several competitions and joined an investment banking club as a Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A) Strategy Analyst. I also became a CUHK Student Ambassador and a Research Assistant to one of my professors. More recently, I was selected as President of the Chung Chi International Student Association, CUHK’s largest college-based international student association. Upon graduation, I hope to build a career in the financial sector and continue learning through professional experiences.

Would Potential Students Have Any Problems Not Knowing Cantonese?

No. My lectures, assessments, and academic materials are conducted in English. Therefore, students can study effectively without prior knowledge of Cantonese. However, learning basic Cantonese and Chinese can be helpful for daily life and communicating with the local community.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

I believe my application stood out because it presented a clear combination of academic achievement, personal interests, long-term goals, and extracurricular involvement. While my grades were important, my portfolio also demonstrated my activities beyond the classroom, including competitions, organisations, and community involvement. These experiences showed that I was willing to explore my interests, take initiative, and develop skills beyond academic performance.

What Would You Have Done Differently if You Were Going Through the Process Again?

If I could return to Grade 12, I would remind myself to overthink less and take action earlier. During the university application process, I was often worried about not being accepted or receiving a scholarship. However, I later realised that excessive worry can prevent us from pursuing meaningful opportunities.

I would encourage my younger self to prepare diligently, apply even before feeling completely ready, and trust the process. Many students wait for the perfect moment or fear rejection, but rejection and failure can be valuable learning experiences. Rather than waiting for the “right” time, I would take action, learn from every outcome, continue improving, and do my best while trusting God with the result.

What Advice Would You Give Those Looking to Apply for a Similar Scholarship?

Start preparing early and aim to apply during the first application round. This gives you more access to scholarship opportunities that may be limited in later rounds.

Be proactive in reaching out to seniors who have received similar scholarships. Their experiences can provide valuable insights into the application process and help you understand how to make your application stronger. In addition, actively seek feedback from seniors, friends, or mentors on your portfolio, personal statement, CV, and interview preparation. Feedback can help you identify gaps or weaknesses that you may not notice on your own.

It is also important to build a clear and well-organised portfolio. Compile your academic, leadership, competition, community-service, and extracurricular experiences in one document. For each activity, include supporting evidence and a brief explanation of your role, contribution, and learning outcomes.

Finally, do not be discouraged by rejection. Every setback is an opportunity to learn, improve, and move closer to your goal. Rather than allowing one rejection letter to reduce your confidence, use it as motivation to strengthen your next application.