HK passes bill to tighten oversight of self-financing colleges

It aims to improve governance and transparency across the sector.

The Legislative Council has passed the Post Secondary Colleges (Amendment) Bill 2025, introducing stricter oversight and a unified regulatory framework for self-financing post-secondary institutions.

The bill aims to improve governance, transparency, and accountability across the sector. It is also expected to streamline the process for institutions to award degrees and removes outdated barriers to improve efficiency.

The new framework is designed to support the sector’s long-term growth and ensure consistent quality standards.

Education Secretary Choi Yuk-lin said the changes will help expand capacity and raise quality in the self-financing sector, contributing to Hong Kong’s goal of becoming an international post-secondary education hub.

The amended ordinance will be published in the Government Gazette on 4 July. Institutions not currently registered will have until 31 July 2028, to complete registration.

The Education Bureau will work with the Hong Kong Council for Accreditation of Academic and Vocational Qualifications to ensure a smooth transition.