Exchange Opportunity
The exchange programme is one of the most popular programmes available to CUHK Business School students. It aims to provide students with international insights developed via connections with well-known overseas universities. Through such exchange, students learn about different cultures, the communication skills necessary for the global market and, more importantly, a variety of unique business practices.
As undergraduates of the CUHK Business School, IFAA students enjoy many opportunities for exchange. Each year, more than 500 exchange places were offered by the Business School, the University, and its nine colleges. Students can go on exchange for one term or, in some cases, for one year. They can enrol in courses at their host universities and transfer the credits gained to CUHK. Students usually need not extend their study period beyond one term. The University and the Business School provide scholarships to help students with their financial needs during the exchange period.
IFAA students have shown great enthusiasm at the international exposure offered during summer breaks. In the past, students have been sent on summer exchange to a number of renowned universities including Harvard, the University of California at Berkeley, the University of Toronto, and Queen’s University.
Exchange student in University College Dublin (BBA Programme), Ireland (2025)
“IFAA students hail from various countries around the globe. Your fellow classmates bring with them a wealth of unique knowledge and expertise that will enrich your shared experience in the programme.
Going for exchange has been one of my “Must-dos” in university, and I am grateful to have this experience.
As I had never been to Ireland before, living in an unfamiliar city trained me to become much more independent and resilient. Living alone away from home meaning to manage everything by myself, from budgeting and grocery shopping to cooking daily meals and doing regular housework. These experiences have pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me to grow.
My leisure activity in Ireland is different from what I used to be in Hong Kong. Taking walks through local parks with my new friends is one of my favorite activities. I love enjoying the fresh air and appreciating the gifted nature. Among all, the most unforgettable moments throughout my exchange journey were witnessing the northern light right outside my apartment. I was incredibly lucky to be on a cloudless night with an exceptionally high aurora index, I was able to watch the rare pink northern lights right from my bed, even though Dublin is not near the Arctic Circle. It is undoubtedly a precious memory that I will treasure for the rest of my life.
To wrap up, I am so thankful to have been given this exchange opportunity, and I strongly recommend that everyone participate if they get the chance.”
Exchange student in University of Toronto (For Business Studies) in Canada (2025)
“Before my exchange, I kept wondering whether the application, the apartment-searching, and the traveling were worth the effort. Looking back, I’m extremely grateful that I decided to go.
Studying at the University of Toronto opened my eyes to how differently learning can be approached. Classes were far more discussion-driven than I was used to, and I found myself genuinely enjoying the back-and-forth between students and professors.
But what made the experience truly memorable was everything outside of the classroom. Even as an international student, staying in Hong Kong for almost three years makes you fall into a routine and hold off from trying new things. During exchange, the limited time I had pushed me outside of my comfort zone. I joined a running club, went hiking, explored Christmas markets, and even picked up ice-skating. I made the most out of North America’s convenient air travel and explored cities across Canada and the US.
Most importantly though were the friendships I built along the way, with people from all over the world. Every one of us was far away from home, and exploring a new city together made these bonds feel much deeper. There is something special about discovering new things alongside people who see the world differently from you. All in all, going on exchange was far more rewarding than I expected, and I would not trade the experience for anything.”
Exchange student in University of California, Education Abroad Program in US (2024)
“A new environment comes with new opportunities. If I were asked to conclude my exchange in a single sentence, this would be my answer.
Being open to new opportunities has been the major theme of my exchange. This brought me amazing memories, one of which was joining the badminton club. I had been interested in badminton before but I never had a chance to play it, until I went on an exchange. I joined a badminton session by accident. I have built up a new interest since then. The sport also brought me new friends. They gave me advice on the sport and about life, which was often surprisingly insightful, as we are people from a different land.
Life during my exchange was more than what happened on campus. One of my most unforgettable moments during the exchange came from witnessing the northern light. This happened on a January night. I was lucky enough to be on a cloudless night with complete darkness, the perfect condition to observe the beauty of the sky. Seeing the entire Ursa Minor shining behind the dancing northern lights was undoubtedly one of the magical moments that I will never forget.
Why go on an exchange? New opportunities. Moving into a new environment filled my life with uncertainties. This pushed me to do things that I would not do normally, which surprisingly, brought me new opportunities, and I was lucky to grasp some of them. From unexpected friendships on the badminton court to standing under the northern lights, I have learned that being open is the key to creating the most meaningful memories. While my exchange has ended, I am sure I will never forget all the amazing moments I experienced.”
Exchange student in Erasmus University Rotterdam in The Netherlands (2023)
“Going on an exchange has always been exhilarating for me. The anticipation of embracing the unknown and adapting to different norms fills me with a sense of curiosity and excitement. Yet, it wasn’t until I embarked on my overseas experience that I fully grasped the profound change it would bring, so much exceeding what I had imagined.
One aspect that significantly enlightened me was the learning environment in Dutch universities. Unlike the traditional spoon-feeding approach, Dutch professors encouraged students to question, debate, and challenge assumptions. In the tutorials that I attended, discussion was the heartbeat. It was not merely about being right; it was a journey of exploring possibilities. Students from around the world, each bringing their unique perspectives, came together to create a dynamic learning environment.
Beyond textbooks and lectures, my exchange journey revolved around collecting moments and broadening horizons. The half-year period offered ample time to immerse myself in a brand-new culture – either through strolling ancient streets, savouring foreign cuisines, or sharing laughter with unexpected companions. When I returned home, I carried not only a certificate but also a heart brimming with stories – a more enriched version of myself.
My exchange has been nothing short of transformative. Every moment has been a lesson in adaptability and cultural understanding. I have learned to appreciate diverse viewpoints, cultivate global awareness, and forge connections across borders. As I bid farewell to university life, this exchange feels like the perfect crescendo – a harmonious blend of academic growth, personal discovery, and unforgettable memories.”
Exchange student in Copenhagen Business School in Denmark (2023)
“Being able to study and live abroad has been my biggest dream so far, and I am grateful for all the support I have received from the university and all the people I have met throughout my journey.
By starting a new life in another country, I became more independent and resilient. Not only have I managed to adapt a rather different lifestyle, but also I have planned quite a few solo-trips for myself to explore foreign cultures. I was lucky enough to also meet people from North America, Australia and even the middle East during my trips. It has been an interesting experience to see how people from different corners of the world view things.
In terms of studying, students in Copenhagen Business School are highly inquisitive, self-disciplined and proactive individuals. They asked questions in lectures and showed their interest towards topics in economics and risk management. It turns out that I didn’t learn solely from lecturer’s materials, but also from interactive class discussions.
All in all, my exchange experience has been one of the best highlights in my university and I strongly recommend everyone to participate given the chance.”