Primary and Secondary Education in Hong Kong
Currently a 12-year system of general education is in effect, with children starting school at age 6.
- Primary School is 6 years (ages 6-12) Grades 1-6
- Junior Secondary School is 3 years (ages 13-15) Grades 7-9
- Senior Secondary School is 3 years (ages 16-18) Grades 10-12. Culminates in the Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE)
Academic year begins in September and ends in May. Education is conducted in Chinese and English.
The Education Bureau, headed by the Secretary of Education, is responsible for implementing education policy and regulations. The new graduation examination, the Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education Examination was administered for the first time in July 2012 by the Hong Kong Examinations and Assessment Authority.
Grade conversion scale for Hong Kong:
Grade Scale |
U.S. Grade Equivalence |
5 |
A |
4 |
A |
3 |
A |
2 |
B |
1 |
C |
* Four core subjects are mandatory for university admission with a minimum score of 3 in Chinese and English and 2 in mathematics and liberal arts subjects..
Credentials:
- Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE)
