HKDSE results - 42.2% of HKDSE candidates achieved grades required to enter local public universities

This week Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE) exam results were released for 51,636 candidates, including 50,642 day school candidates. This is around 4% fewer candidates than last year. The HKDSE results determine whether a student is likely to receive an offer from a local university, and students who are not likely to receive a place now step up efforts to decide which overseas university or college to enrol in for Higher Education.

Each year there is a shortage of local publicly funded university places compared to the number that meet entrance requirements. This year 21,264 day school candidates met entry criteria (achieved Level 3 or above), while only 15,000 publicly funded places are available via the JUPAS system (the Hong Kong university application system). This represents 42.2% of candidates (which has grown by 1.3% as compared to last year). Those that miss out will either look to study abroad or enter expensive self-funded programmes. 35,179 candidates (71.6% of candidates) achieved level 2 or above in five subjects, which is the minimum required to apply for civil service posts or enter sub-degree programmes.

The HKDSE exam includes four core subjects - English, Chinese, Core Mathematics and Liberal Studies. Most candidates also take two elective subjects. The most popular elective subjects are Economics and Science subjects.

Full results are included in the attached press release from HKEAA.

IB Diploma results – at least 38 Hong Kong students claimed the title of top scorer

According to the International Baccalaureate (IB) Organisation, 2,291 pupils across 29 international and local schools in Hong Kong took the exams this year. At least 38 Hong Kong students scored the maximum 45 points. The report also revealed the average grade in Hong Kong was 35.96 points, which is nearly 6 points higher than the global average.  

The English Schools Foundation (ESF), which is the largest international curriculum schools in Hong Kong, announced that 15 of ESF secondary students achieved full marks in their IB exams this year. 40 per cent of the top scorers have chosen to study a Medical degree. There are another 24 ESF students achieved 44 points this year.

Sources: 

SCMP Young Post "The 2018 IB results are in, and this is how this year's top scorers feel about the exam"

SCMP "Hong Kong students raise their game with 25 perfect scores in IB exams"