September 2024 marks the start of a new academic year in Hong Kong. For students and parents, this month is not just about settling into new classes. It is a period filled with critical deadlines, open houses, and strategic planning. Whether you are preparing for the 2025 DSE exams, applying to universities through JUPAS or Non-JUPAS, or navigating the kindergarten and primary school admission processes, the decisions you make in September can shape the entire year ahead.

This article provides a factual, month-by-month overview of what September 2024 means for different stages of the Hong Kong education journey. We include specific dates, quantities, and practical advice. All information is based on widely known policies and standard school calendars. Where exact figures are uncertain, we flag that clearly.

DSE 2025: The September Study Sprint

For Form 6 students sitting the Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (DSE) in March-April 2025, September 2024 is the last full month before mock exams and final revision. The DSE is the main university entrance exam in Hong Kong, taken by about 50,000 candidates each year. The exam covers four core subjects (Chinese, English, Mathematics, Liberal Studies) and two to three electives.

In September, students should have already completed the syllabus for most subjects. If not, they need to catch up quickly. A typical DSE candidate in September 2024 should be spending at least 4 to 6 hours per day on self-study, in addition to school hours. Many top-performing students aim for 8 hours on weekends.

Key actions for September 2024:

  • Create a study timetable that allocates specific time slots for each subject. Use the DSE study plans and timelines article for a sample schedule.
  • Complete past papers from 2019 to 2023. The HKEAA releases official past papers and marking schemes. Aim to finish at least one full paper per subject per week.
  • Identify weak areas using the DSE score calculator and conversion tool to estimate your current level.
  • Attend school-based DSE briefing sessions which usually occur in late September. Schools distribute the exam timetable and explain the SBA (School-based Assessment) requirements.
  • Register for the DSE if you are a private candidate. The deadline for private candidates is usually early October. Check the HKEAA website for exact dates.

Common mistakes in September include procrastination, over-reliance on tutoring without self-practice, and neglecting the SBA component. Read the common DSE mistakes to avoid article for a full list.

Subject Selection and Strategy

If you are still unsure about your elective subjects, September is the time to finalize. The DSE allows you to drop one elective after the first term, but it is better to decide early. Use the DSE subject selection tips guide to match your strengths with university requirements.

For example, if you intend to apply for medical school (HKU or CUHK), you need Chemistry and at least one of Biology or Physics. If you are aiming for engineering, Mathematics Extended Module 2 is strongly recommended. Check the specific prerequisites on the JUPAS website.

JUPAS 2025 Application: Early Bird Strategy

The Joint University Programmes Admissions System (JUPAS) is the main application channel for local DSE students to apply to nine participating institutions. The application window for 2025 entry typically opens in early October. However, September is the month for preparation.

In September 2024, students should:

  • Research programmes across the nine JUPAS institutions: HKU, CUHK, HKUST, PolyU, CityU, HKBU, EdUHK, LU, and HSUHK. Each offers dozens of undergraduate programmes. Focus on those that match your predicted DSE scores and interests.
  • Attend information days held by universities. Most universities hold their admission talks and campus tours in September and October. For example, HKU's Information Day is usually in late October, but preliminary talks may occur in September.
  • Prepare your personal statement (if required by specific programmes). Some competitive programmes, such as medicine, law, and global business, require a personal statement or interview.
  • Understand the Band A, B, C, D, E system. You can list up to 20 programme choices. Band A (choices 1-3) are your top priority. Use the JUPAS strategies for Band A choices article to decide how to rank them.
  • Estimate your predicted DSE scores based on Form 5 results and September tests. This helps you set realistic targets.

Non-JUPAS: An Alternative Route

For students who do not meet JUPAS requirements or prefer overseas qualifications, the Non-JUPAS route is an option. Non-JUPAS covers applicants with international qualifications (IB, GCE A-Level, SAT, etc.) or local students who did not take the DSE. In September 2024, students considering Non-JUPAS should start preparing their applications, as many overseas universities have early deadlines in October and November. Read the Non-JUPAS admissions explained article for details. Compare the two routes using the Non-JUPAS vs. JUPAS: Pros and Cons guide.

Kindergarten Admissions for 2025-2026: September Deadlines

For parents of children born in 2022 (or 2021 for some schools), September 2024 is the start of the kindergarten application cycle for the 2025-2026 school year. Hong Kong has over 1,000 kindergartens, including local, international, and bilingual options. The Education Bureau (EDB) oversees the Kindergarten Education Scheme, which provides subsidies to eligible families.

Key deadlines in September 2024:

  • Registration for the Kindergarten Admission (K1) application: Many popular kindergartens open online applications in September. For example, Victoria Educational Organisation, St. Catherine's International Kindergarten, and Kentville Kindergarten typically start accepting applications in early September.
  • Submission of the