International Foundation Year Programme

Message from the Director

Dr. Michelle Chan, Director of IFYP
The International Foundation Year Programme (IFYP) aims to provide our students with an all-rounded education and a decent learning experience. This is a two-term foundation programme specifically designed for international students who are interested in consolidating their knowledge and preparing themselves for further education. The programme will build students’ foundation in the areas of business studies, data analysis, psychology, social science and languages.

Besides academic intelligence, this programme will also support our students in understanding themselves and their potential. We believe joining IFYP will be a good opportunity for students to move beyond their comfort zones. Students will engage in new challenges, learn new things, and meet new people. We hope that students can prove themselves, move forward, and more importantly, embrace their lives and realize great goals.

The International Foundation Year Programme (IFYP) is designed to equip students from different countries with the skills and knowledge to study undergraduate courses at HKSYU. Students will learn about basic business administration, data analysis and applications, psychology, and sociology. By studying our language enhancement courses, students will also improve their language skills in English and Chinese. 

  

HKSYU was established in 1971 and holds the distinction of being the first private university in Hong Kong. It is ranked as 342 in the QS Asia University Rankings in 2025, making it the highest-ranked private and self-funded institution in Hong Kong. 

HKSYU offers academic studies, accommodations, scholarships, student societies, and an education pathway for IFYP students. After fulfilling the graduation requirements of IFYP, students can continue their bachelor’s degree at HKSYU. 

The Faculty of Social Sciences includes Applied Data Science, Counselling and Psychology, Sociology, and Social Work.

The Faculty of Commerce includes Business Administration, Corporate Governance, Digital Marketing, Economics & Finance, Law & Business, Professional Accounting, HR Management, Financial Technology, and Economics.

The Faculty of Arts include Chinese Language and Literature, English Language and Literature, History, and Journalism and Communication.


Learning Experience in HKSYU

Hana Koyama (exchange student)
"I have learned two main things at SYU: first, I am encouraged to think and have my own opinion. The courses at SYU are very interactive and, students are expected to always think about what they are learning and have their own opinion on the topic, rather than being passive in the classroom. Group presentations and in-class discussions are part of every class. These improve not only my language skills but also my thinking skills. Second, in terms of cross-cultural understanding, I learn about different values and hear stories from students and teachers of different backgrounds. Here, I have an inspirational life every day not only because of the events with international students, but also because I can make many friends with local students."

Bonnie Fung (local student, Year 4 student of the English Department)
"Shue Yan University (SYU) offers numerous opportunities for students to engage in exchanges or interact with different universities. The professors and teachers here are adept at nurturing students' talents and helping them achieve their goals. The lectures and classes are engaging, and the learning is enjoyable. Moreover, the small class sizes at SYU foster a closer relationship between students and teachers, allowing in-depth discussions on a wide range of topics."