Discover the HKU CDS Research Internships 2025 — a prestigious, paid summer research programme in Hong Kong for undergraduate students in Computer Science, Statistics, and Actuarial Science. Learn about eligibility, benefits, application deadlines, and how to apply.
Are you a budding Computer Science, Statistics, or Actuarial Science undergraduate student dreaming of conducting research at one of Asia’s most prestigious universities? If so, here’s some great news — the University of Hong Kong (HKU) is once again offering its Research Internship Programme for 2025 through its School of Computing and Data Science (CDS).
This highly sought-after opportunity brings together top-performing undergraduate students from Mainland China, Hong Kong, and universities worldwide for a hands-on, research-focused summer internship in Hong Kong.
Besides working closely with world-class academics on cutting-edge projects, selected interns will receive a generous stipend of HK$22,274, helping to cover accommodation, living expenses, and other costs during their stay.
But this isn’t just a financial opportunity — it’s a unique chance to immerse yourself in a real research environment, work on innovative projects, and get a head start on postgraduate study possibilities at HKU.
If you’ve been considering research internships abroad or wish to build your academic portfolio at one of the world’s leading institutions, keep reading — this might just be the perfect match.
- Key Information: HKU CDS Research Internships 2025
- Key Takeaways
- What’s the Opportunity?
- Why You Should Apply for University of Hong Kong CDS Research Internships 2025
- Who Can Apply for HKU CDS Research Internship?
- What You’ll Do
- Stipend and Financial Benefits
- Application Process for HKU CDS Research Internships 2025
- Conclusion
- Frequently Asked Questions
Key Information: HKU CDS Research Internships 2025
| Programme Name | HKU CDS Research Internships 2025 |
|---|---|
| Organizing Institution | School of Computing and Data Science, The University of Hong Kong |
| Location | Hong Kong |
| Programme Dates | July 13 – August 31, 2025 |
| Number of Interns | Approx. 50 students |
| Fields of Study | Computer Science, Statistics, Actuarial Science, or closely related fields |
| Eligibility | Year 2 or Year 3 undergraduates from Mainland China, Hong Kong, or international universities |
| Stipend | HK$22,274 |
| Work Type | Full-time, in-person research immersion |
| Application Deadline | May 30, 2025 |
| Application Portal | cds.hku.hk/rintern |
Key Takeaways
- HKU CDS Research Internships 2025 is an incredible summer opportunity for Computer Science, Statistics, and Actuarial Science undergraduates.
- Offers hands-on research projects, full-time work in Hong Kong, and mentorship by HKU faculty.
- Open to students from Mainland China, Hong Kong, and international universities.
- Includes a generous stipend of HK$22,274 to support living expenses.
- Applications close on May 30, 2025 — early applications recommended.
What’s the Opportunity?
The HKU CDS Research Internship Programme aims to identify and cultivate promising undergraduate students interested in computing, data science, statistics, and actuarial research.
Each year, the School selects around 50 students who will work on faculty-supervised research projects, gaining invaluable exposure to academic research processes, tools, and culture. Interns will collaborate with postgraduate researchers and faculty members, exploring topics ranging from machine learning and AI to quantitative finance, risk management, and statistical modeling.
Aside from the academic exposure, each selected intern will receive a stipend of HK$22,274 — a substantial financial aid package designed to help students cover living expenses, accommodation, and travel during their stay in Hong Kong.
And while the monetary benefit is excellent, the real value lies in the hands-on research experience and networking opportunities this program provides. Many past participants have gone on to pursue Master’s or PhD studies at HKU or other leading universities around the world, with this internship giving them a crucial head start.
Why You Should Apply for University of Hong Kong CDS Research Internships 2025
Still wondering if this internship is for you? Here’s why it’s worth considering:
1. Work with World-Class Faculty
Interns will be paired with HKU professors specializing in cutting-edge areas of computer science, data science, statistics, and actuarial science. You’ll get to work closely with experienced researchers on meaningful projects that tackle real-world problems.
2. Gain Research Experience Early
Most undergraduate students rarely get the chance to engage in academic research before graduation. This program offers early exposure to the research process, helping you develop skills in academic writing, data analysis, literature reviews, coding, and presenting findings.
3. Boost Your Postgraduate Applications
Having real research experience under your belt will strengthen your applications for Master’s, PhDs, and research fellowships. You’ll also build connections with HKU faculty, improving your chances if you decide to apply for postgraduate study there.
4. Stipend Support
Unlike many unpaid internships, the HK$22,274 stipend provided by HKU CDS makes the program more accessible, helping cover your stay in Hong Kong.
5. Explore Life in Hong Kong
Hong Kong is a dynamic, multicultural city known for its blend of Eastern and Western cultures, vibrant city life, and beautiful natural surroundings. This internship gives you the opportunity to experience one of Asia’s leading cities while building your academic career.
Who Can Apply for HKU CDS Research Internship?
To qualify for the HKU CDS Research Internship 2025, you must meet the following eligibility criteria:
Academic Requirements
- Be a Year 2 or Year 3 undergraduate student.
- Be enrolled in Computer Science, Statistics, Actuarial Science, or a closely related discipline.
- Be currently studying at a university in Mainland China, Hong Kong, or any overseas institution.
Other Requirements
- Must be available for full-time participation in Hong Kong between July 13 and August 31, 2025 (adjustable depending on your assigned supervisor).
- Should demonstrate strong academic performance and a keen interest in research.
- Good English communication skills (as it’s the primary language used in research discussions).
📌 Note:
Students from both local and international universities are encouraged to apply. Diversity and cross-border academic collaboration are highly valued.
What You’ll Do
This isn’t your typical summer internship. Once selected, each intern is matched with a faculty supervisor whose research area aligns with the student’s interests and academic background.
You’ll work on a specific research project under their supervision, collaborating with faculty members, research students, and sometimes other interns.
Core Responsibilities:
- Participate in real research activities — literature reviews, experimental design, coding, data analysis, modeling, and result interpretation.
- Attend weekly research group meetings and discussions.
- Prepare and present a final research presentation at the end of the internship.
- Contribute actively to academic writing, reports, or publications (if applicable).
This full-time, immersive research environment offers a great introduction to what life as a postgraduate student or professional researcher is like.
Stipend and Financial Benefits
Each intern selected for the 2025 programme will receive a stipend of HK$22,274 (about USD $2,850), intended to help cover:
- Accommodation in Hong Kong
- Living expenses
- Local transportation
- Other personal expenses
This financial package makes it easier for students from around the world to participate in the program without excessive financial burden.
💡 Tip:
Hong Kong has many affordable student accommodations and hostel options, and HKU typically offers guidance for admitted interns on finding suitable housing.
Application Process for HKU CDS Research Internships 2025
If you’re ready to apply, here’s what you need to know:
Important Dates
- Applications Open: Now
- Application Deadline: May 30, 2025
How to Apply
- Visit the official application portal at https://cds.hku.hk/rintern/.
- Complete the online application form.
- Submit the following documents:
- Updated CV/Resume
- Academic transcripts
- Personal statement explaining your research interests and motivation for applying
- Recommendation letter(s) (if required)
- Confirm your application submission before the May 30 deadline.
Selection Process
- Shortlisted candidates will be notified by early June 2025.
- Final offers and project matching will follow soon after.
⚠️ Important:
Spots are limited and highly competitive — applying early and submitting a well-prepared application improves your chances.
Conclusion
For ambitious undergraduate students in computing, statistics, or actuarial science, the HKU CDS Research Internships 2025 offer a one-of-a-kind opportunity to immerse yourself in real academic research, develop valuable skills, and connect with world-renowned faculty.
Not only does it come with financial support, but it also gives you a valuable head start if you’re considering postgraduate studies at HKU or any leading institution worldwide.
So if you’re ready for a summer filled with cutting-edge research, academic challenges, and exciting cultural experiences in Hong Kong, don’t miss this opportunity — apply before May 30, 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is this internship open to final-year undergraduate students?
No — this programme is specifically designed for Year 2 and Year 3 undergraduates.
2. Can international students outside Mainland China and Hong Kong apply?
Yes — undergraduates from overseas universities are encouraged to apply, as the programme values global diversity.
3. Do I need research experience to apply?
While prior research experience is not mandatory, strong academic performance and a keen interest in research are essential.
4. Is accommodation provided?
No, but interns receive a stipend of HK$22,274, which can be used to cover accommodation and living expenses.
5. Can I apply for more than one project?
You only need to submit one application; project matching will be handled based on your research interests and faculty availability.