Frequently Asked Questions
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Terms and Conditions
This FAQ is intended solely to assist participants in understanding their participating programmes. In case of dispute, United College has sole and final discretion in interpreting the information provided in this FAQ. Last updated in December 2025. |
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1. General Questions
Q1.1: When will the short-term learning programmes or service-learning programmes be open for application? The language and cultural programmes are usually open for application at the beginning of the second semester (January). Most service-learning programmes typically open for application afterward (February).
Q1.2: Am I eligible? How do I apply? All United College students are eligible to apply for the UC GOAL Programme. You can apply by clicking the link provided on the programme leaflets or the College website.
Q1.3: What are the selection criteria? We comprehensively consider the applicant’s academic performance, participation in College activities or extracurricular activities, and the personal statement submitted to the programme(s) applied for.
Q1.4: Can I participate in more than one programme? Due to fairness and resource limitations, students can only accept one offer in one College GOAL programme each academic year, either long-term or short-term, except for programmes in Chinese Mainland and Taiwan, China. You may still indicate multiple programme preferences in your application. We recommend listing at least three choices, as some programmes are highly competitive. For students who have also applied for a long-term GOAL Programme, please note that within the same academic year, you may accept only one offer (either long-term or short-term). For example, if you have applied for a long-term GOAL Programme for the 2026–27 academic year and are selected and accept the offer, you will not be able to accept an offer for a short-term programme, as only one offer can be accepted within the same academic year, except for programmes in Chinese Mainland and Taiwan, China. However, if you participated in a long-term GOAL Programme in 2025–26, you remain eligible for the 2026 Summer GOAL Programmes, since your previous offer was for the 2024–25 academic year.
Q1.5: Can I purchase my own round-trip air tickets? Yes. Starting in 2026, students are allowed to purchase their own air tickets to better accommodate individual travel plans, except for the Service Learning Programme in Uganda. Specific arrangements may vary by programme—please refer to the programme guidelines provided if you are selected. Important: Even if you purchase your own tickets, you must strictly follow the College’s travel guidelines. Non-compliance may affect your eligibility for the programme scholarship, and the scholarship amount may be subject to deduction.
Q1.6: Can I stay behind or arrive earlier to travel? This depends on the programme. Generally, students may stay behind, except for the Service Learning Programme in Uganda.
Q1.7: How do I apply for the GOAL Programme Scholarship if I am selected? Once you are selected as a participant in the Summer GOAL Programme, you will automatically be considered for the United College GOAL Scholarships upon satisfactory completion of all programme requirements. There is no need to submit a separate application.
Q1.8: What are the differences among the scholarship options? To support as many students as possible, applicants may choose one of three scholarship options: Self-financed, 50% funded and 100% funded. Your choice of scholarship option does not affect admission decisions. Additional financial aid is available for students with financial need but students are required to submit relevant financial documents for separate consideration. All participants—regardless of scholarship level—who successfully complete the programme will be invited to the College Scholarship Presentation Ceremony. An official GOAL Programme Scholarship Certificate will be issued upon request.
Q1.9: If I participate in the same programme or course not through the GOAL Programme but directly via the foreign schools themselves, can I still receive the College Scholarship and apply for credit exemption, such as for GEUC4011? Although some programmes or courses offered by College GOAL Programme partners are also open to applicants worldwide, the College Scholarship and related support are only available to students selected through the College GOAL Programme. If you apply directly to the overseas institution without going through United College, you will not be eligible for the scholarship, and the College will not consider any credit exemption requests. |
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2.Interview Matters
The College suggests that students who have applied for the GOAL programmes should regularly and carefully check their mailbox, as all results and related information will be delivered via email only.
Q2.1: When will we know the interview schedule? Due to the large number of applications, scheduling takes time. The interview schedule is usually released about two weeks after the application deadline. You must confirm your attendance by the specified deadline. Your application number will appear on the confirmation email sent after submission. Tip: 1. If you applied for only one programme and your name is not listed, your application is unsuccessful. 2. If you applied for multiple programmes, check other choices—you may be shortlisted for your second or third preference.
Q2.2: I cannot attend the interview. What should I do? You must sign up for an interview timeslot via the online e-form. Please note that students who do not attend the interview in person will not be considered. Note: Requests to change timeslots due to personal activities, part-time jobs, or similar reasons will not be accepted. Supporting documents is required for all change requests.
Q2.3: Will I be considered for other programmes if I am not selected? Each student will only be interviewed once. If you are not selected for your first choice, the College will consider your second and other preferences.
Q2.4: What should I wear to the interview? It is your choice, but we recommend smart-casual or formal attire. |
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3. Acceptance Matters
The College advises all shortlisted students who attend the interview to check their email regularly, as all acceptance results and related information will be sent via email only.
Q3.1: I cannot complete the webform or upload copies of my passport and/or HKID before the deadline. What should I do? You must complete the webform and upload all required documents before the deadline. 1. If you need to renew your passport or have lost your HKID, upload copies of your old passport or HKID first. Send us the updated copy as soon as it is ready. 2. Upload a copy of the ATM slip or a printed online banking record showing the deposit of HKD 3,000 has been completed. 3. Email us to inform which documents you are unable to submit for the time being.
Q3.2: I do not have a Hang Seng Bank account. What should I do? If possible, ask a family member or friend to assist you. If not, you may queue at the bank to make the transfer and obtain a pay-in slip.
Q3.3: I lost my slip! Log in to your online banking account and provide a screenshot of your transfer record showing the date, accounts, and amount transferred.
Q3.4: I am unable to pay the deposit on time. What should I do? Please email the responsible staff immediately, and we will follow up with you. Otherwise we will consider you as not accepting the offer and your place will be given to another student.
Q3.5: I forgot to submit the acceptance form on time. What does it mean? We will assume you are no longer interested in the programme, and the opportunity will be offered to students on the waiting list.
Q3.6: Why is my scholarship amount different from the one shown on the leaflet? As indicated in Q1.7, you selected your preferred scholarship level (0%, 50%, or 100%) when submitting your application. Your scholarship has been awarded based on that preference. Please note the final scholarship amount applied to your programme fee may be subject to slight adjustments due to additional financial aid (if granted), currency fluctuations, and other related expenses/support. If you have any questions, please email us.
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4. Flight-Related Matters
Q4.1: What is the schedule for booking tickets? When will I know the final flight arrangements approved by the College? We will distribute detailed flight booking guidelines to all selected participants. These guidelines will include:
1. The programme advisor’s outbound flight itinerary 2. Designated assembly time and location at Hong Kong International Airport / overseas ( different programme may have different arrangements) 3. Submission deadlines for your round-trip e-tickets, travel itinerary, and other required information
Deadlines may vary by programme—please adhere strictly to the dates provided. If you prefer not to travel alone, you may book the same outbound flight as the programme advisor or coordinate with fellow participants during the briefing session or pre-departure meetings (usually scheduled for March). Important: Even if you purchase your own tickets, you must fully comply with the College’s approved travel dates, routes, and guidelines. Failure to do so may result in disqualification from receiving the programme scholarship or a deduction from the awarded amount. Note: Certain programmes require all participants to travel as a group under unified flight bookings. Separate instructions will be provided for these cases. You will be notified of the final College-approved flight schedule and related requirements as soon as they are confirmed.
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5. Visa Matters
Q5.1: Do I need a visa? Visa requirements depend on the passport you will use and the countries you plan to visit. HKSAR passport holders generally do not require visas for European countries. However, if you plan to visit other countries during weekends or stay-behind periods, please check requirements yourself. PRC passport holders generally require visas for European countries. If you hold another passport, please check visa requirements yourself.
Q5.2: I need a visa. What should I do? When can I get the required documents? Reply to our email indicating that you need to apply for a visa. We will prepare the necessary documents and inform you when they are ready for collection (usually by late April). Required documents typically include: 1. Supporting letter from the College 2. Supporting letter from the host Institute (with address proof) 3. Air ticket 4. Insurance certificate (For more information, please visit Group Travel | CUHK Insurance Arrangement.)
You may need to attend an embassy interview, so please allow sufficient time. You can always make an appointment in advance while collecting the necessary documents. We recommend obtaining your visa at least two months before your trip. Reminder: Take copies of all documents before submitting them to the embassy, as they may not return them.
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6. Pre-departure Matters
Q6.1: How many briefings will we have? Do we have any dates yet? Ø We will usually have 1-2 briefings. As we have to invite speakers and advisers for these briefings, we cannot provide you with dates at this moment. We usually have a sharing session in March and a pre-departure meeting a week or two before your departure. Dates will be emailed to you once confirmed.
Q6.2: What if I cannot attend the meeting? Participants are required to attend all briefings. If you cannot attend due to unforeseen circumstances, email us directly. Note: The College reserves the right to deduct 5–10% of your scholarship reimbursement depending on your attendance.
Q6.3: Are we allowed to visit other cities/countries over the weekends? It depends on your course schedule. Some programmes have scheduled activities on weekends, and attendance is mandatory. Reminder: 1. Attendance will be counted. 2. Check visa requirements for any additional countries you plan to visit.
Q6.4: When can we leave on the last day? This varies by programme, but you are not allowed to leave before the programme officially ends (e.g., after the examination or farewell ceremony).
Q6.5: How much money should I prepare for the trip? Costs vary by year and destination. We will provide estimates during the briefing sessions.
Q6.6: Can I deduct the scholarship amount and only pay the balance to the College? No. You must pay the full amount stated in our notification.
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7. Insurance Matters
Q7.1: Where can I find my insurance policy? Please visit Group Travel | CUHK Insurance Arrangement for more details.
Q7.2: What should I do if an incident occurs during the non-local trip? Participants may encounter various incidents during the trip. Below are basic guidelines for handling common situations
Flight Delay or Cancellation 1. Collect and securely retain all relevant documents (e.g., boarding pass, airline delay/cancellation notice, and any official announcements). 2. If the delay is due to weather, airline operations, or other reasons acknowledged by the airline or relevant authorities, you may be eligible to claim a travel delay allowance (specific amount per specified hours, up to a maximum per trip—refer to the insurance policy for details). 3. Generally, no additional reimbursement will be provided for accommodation, meals, or other expenses incurred during the delay. 4. Please approach the airline directly for assistance.
Loss or Theft of Personal Property 1. Report the incident to the local police immediately and obtain an official police report (mandatory for insurance claims). 2. Retain all supporting evidence, including original purchase receipts, photographs of the items, and the police report. 3. Notify the responsible College staff within 24 hours. Submit your insurance claim through the designated channel as soon as possible.
Personal Property Damage If your personal property is damaged: 1. Take clear photos showing the damage from multiple angles. 2. Record the circumstances and apparent cause of the damage. 3. Complete a claim form and report the incident to the insurance company promptly.
If your luggage is damaged by the airline at the airport: 1. Do NOT leave the baggage claim area. 2. Proceed immediately to the Baggage Services Counter (Lost & Found or Damage Desk). 3. File a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) on the spot and obtain a reference number (e.g., HKGXX12345). 4. Take photos of the damaged luggage at the counter. 5. Most airlines will offer an immediate solution (repair, replacement, or cash compensation). Accept the airline’s offer first—it is usually the quickest resolution. 6. If the airline refuses your claim or offers insufficient compensation, you may then file a claim with the insurance company.
Feeling Unwell, Falling Ill, or Involved in an Accident 1. Seek medical attention immediately at the nearest appropriate facility. 2. Retain all original medical receipts, doctor’s certificates, diagnosis reports, and prescription records. 3. Inform the responsible College staff as soon as practicable for guidance and support. 4. Eligible medical expenses covered under the programme’s travel insurance may be claimed afterwards upon submission of all original documents.
For any other incidents or urgent assistance, contact the designated College staff without delay. Please note: The outcome of your insurance claim depends on various factors, and we cannot guarantee approval.
Q7.3: How should I claim for insurance? 1. Log in to Group Travel | CUHK Insurance Arrangement and download the Claim Form
2. Prepare the following supporting documents:
· Supporting letter from United College · Supporting letter from the summer school/programme organiser · Boarding passes or e-ticket receipts (round-trip) · Police report (for theft/loss) or official damage report from airline/hotel (for damaged items) · Completed and signed Claim Form
Any additional documents specified on the Claim Form (e.g., embassy letters, original receipts, medical reports, etc.) 1. Make copies of all documents for your own records. 2. Submit the original documents (or scanned copies if email submission is permitted) to the CUHK Business Unit and copy the United College staff responsible for your programme for endorsement. 3. The Finance Office may contact you directly if further documentation is required. For enquiries, call 3943 7883. 4. After endorsement by CUHK Business Unit, send the completed form and all supporting documents to the insurance agent within 30 days after the incident, and copy the College staff responsible for your programme.
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8. Post-trip Matters
Q8.1: When can we start applying for credit transfer? After we receive all your reports, photos, and questionnaires, we will submit them to the College Dean of Students for approval.
Q8.2: Do we need to pay for credit transfer? Why? Yes. According to RES, a handling fee is required for credit transfer. This fee is collected exclusively by RES.
Q8.3: How do I apply for credit transfer? Before submitting your application, please review the most up-to-date credit transfer procedures (Res – Application Procedures). Below is a brief summary to guide you before submitting your credit transfer application via CUSIS:
Please complete the following steps on CUSIS: 1. Fill in the online application form. 2. Upload a soft copy of the supporting documents. 3. Make the required payment online. Supporting documents include: 1. A copy of your transcript 2. Course descriptions – detailed outlines or syllabi of the courses taken (if applicable).
Please ensure that all supporting documents are combined into a single PDF or JPEG file not exceeding 5MB in size. Payment is required online via credit card.
Q8.4: When is the deadline for applying for credit transfer? Submit your credit transfer application as early as possible via CUSIS, especially if the credits are needed for graduation. RES processes a large volume of applications each year. Late submissions may result in delays in transcript retrieval, document verification, and overall processing. For certain programmes offering exemptions (e.g., GEUC4011), a specific deadline applies and will be communicated after programme completion. If your application is not received by this deadline, we will assume you have opted not to pursue the exemption, and no further processing will occur.
Q8.5: (For Sydney, Utrecht, or Oulu Programme participants only) Can I apply for exemption for courses other than GEUC4011, such as university general education courses? No. United College students can only apply for exemption for GEUC4011, as stated in the programme leaflet.
Q8.6: What does exemption of GEUC4011 mean? Do I need to register another 3-credit course to replace it? As stated in the programme leaflet, upon satisfactory completion of the course requirements, students can apply for course and unit exemption from the College’s compulsory General Education course GEUC4011 “Senior Seminar.”
Q8.7: When will I receive the scholarship? Once your transcript shows a passing grade and all reports, photos, and questionnaires are approved, we will request your bank account details for scholarship transfer.
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