ARTICLE

Hong Kong's 'Through-train' Education: Winning at the Starting Line

3-min read

Updated on 2026-3-31

Author: AIA Content Editorial Team

For school children who have recently moved to or are about to move to Hong Kong, adapting to the city's fast-paced life comes with the challenge of adjusting to a new school and learning environment. The following information will support parents' and students' early familiarisation with Hong Kong's education system, language and culture.

The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) provides 12 years of free primary and secondary education (i.e. 6-year primary, 3-year junior secondary and 3-year senior secondary education) for eligible children through public sector schools.

Under the existing legislation, it is compulsory for children aged between 6 and 15 to attend school. They may enrol in public sector mainstream or special schools, Direct Subsidy Scheme (DSS) schools, private schools, or international schools. On completion of junior secondary education, students may proceed to Secondary 4 or undertake other training programmes.

Hong Kong's 'Through-train' Education: Winning at the Starting Line

For any inquiries, you may call 2892 6191 or 2892 6192 during office hours.

In addition, the Education Bureau provides the 'School-based Support Scheme Grant' to public sector and Direct Subsidy Scheme (DSS) schools. Schools can utilize this grant to provide school-based support programs and activities for newly arrived children, such as remedial classes, orientation/counseling sessions, extracurricular activities, and organized visits. Parents are encouraged to inquire with their schools about the details of these activities and to motivate their children to participate actively.

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