Can Mainland Students Apply?
Yes. The DSE itself does not restrict nationality or household registration, so mainland students do not need a Hong Kong identity first.
Three Registration Routes
- 1. Partner-school candidate: enrol in an HKEAA-recognised DSE school in mainland China and register collectively through the school;
- 2. Private candidate by direct registration: satisfies the direct registration condition (has previously sat the DSE, or is at least 19 years old on 1 January of the exam year);
- 3. Private candidate by special application: first-time candidates under 19 must obtain approval through the special application procedure before registering.
Note on Applying to Mainland Universities
To use DSE results for mainland university admission through the "Scheme for Admission of Hong Kong Students to Mainland Higher Education Institutions" (exemption scheme), you must hold a Hong Kong Permanent Identity Card plus a Home Return Permit / Mainland Travel Permit for Hong Kong and Macau Residents. Candidates with purely mainland household registration are not eligible for this scheme but can pursue other routes.
Important Reminder
Always follow the admission requirements published for the current exam year by the HKEAA, and note the registration deadline. Do not trust unofficial information.