Pre-departure Information

Submission of Pre-departure Forms

Please email the following completed forms to the Office of Global Education:

Guidelines on Completing the course confirmation form and study plan.

Credit Equivalence Table

1. Course Confirmation Form
2. Study Plan
3. Acknowledgment Forms
4. Insurance Compliance Forms

Attend Pre-Departure Briefing and Training Sessions

• Mandatory Attendance: You must attend sessions organized by the Office of Global Education (OGE).

• Importance: These sessions cover:

  • Required documentation for host institutions

  • Study plan preparation

  • Hostel and travel arrangements

  • Visa application processes

  • Cultural adjustments

     

Important Reminder

Failing to submit these forms may affect the transfer of credits from your host institution. Please be diligent in completing and submitting these documents on time to ensure a smooth process. 

Complete SEP Evaluation

• Evaluation Requirements: Submit the following to assess your exchange studies:

  • Pre-exchange survey

  • Post-exchange survey

  • Mandatory Intercultural Development Inventory (IDI) assessment

     

Participate in the Global Ambassador Scheme

• Cultural Exposure: Engage in the Global Ambassador scheme to enhance your cultural experience and support internationalization at Lingnan.

• Role: Help with orientation for incoming students and various university events. For details, refer to the Global Ambassador Scheme section.

Course Registration at Lingnan

If you accept an offer for the Student Exchange Programme (SEP), you do not need to register for courses in Degree Works or during the online registration period for your exchange term. The Registry will automatically remove all pre-registered courses (except concurrent courses like senior thesis and final year projects) by August. 

If you withdraw, inform both the Office of Global Education (OGE) and the Registry. Post-registration withdrawal will only allow course registration during the add/drop period.

Course of Study and Graduation

You can take courses at your host institution that count as required courses, electives, or cluster courses based on your program's graduation requirements. With careful course selection, SEP participants can typically graduate on time. If your courses don't align with requirements, you may need an extra term at Lingnan. Always consult your Head of Department, Programme Director, or Academic Advisor. For details, please refer to: Guidelines on Completing the course confirmation form and study plan.

Study Plan, Credit Transfer, and Grades

To ensure that courses taken abroad meet graduation requirements, students must obtain prior approval for their Study Plan. 

Important Guidelines

• Credit Requirements: You must take at least 12 Lingnan credits during your exchange to maintain full-time status. For details on credit equivalence, please refer to the Table of Credit Equivalence.

• Course Information: Host institutions will share course details via email and publish them on their websites. You must submit your Study Plan prior to departure and ensure that backup or alternative course options are included.

• Modifications: If you need to change your approved plan, complete an updated Study Plan and submit it for approval before the end of the add/drop period at your host institution. If seeking approval via email, forward the original emails to OGE ([email protected]) along with your updated plan.

• Host University Transcript Application: Once you're at your host university, be sure to apply for your exchange transcript, especially if you're in the US or Canada. After receiving your transcript, submit it to the Lingnan Global Education Office via email. This step is crucial for ensuring your credits transfer smoothly.

Important Note

Students must submit their study plan before departure; otherwise, their credit transfer may be affected.

All credits earned at the host institution must be transferred back to Lingnan through OGE. Grades will be recorded on students’ Lingnan transcript as Pass or Fail and will not be included in GPA calculations.

Penalties apply to students who fail course(s). Depending on the extent of the failure, penalties may include, but are not limited to, the claw back of airfare sponsorships, scholarships, financial assistance, and subsidies. Students may also be required to complete service as required by OGE.

The Office of Global Education reserves the right to review students’ academic performance with the host institution and take appropriate actions.

SEP participants are eligible for financial support to cover transportation costs to their host countries.

Air Ticket Sponsorship for IEP Participants

Lingnan offers sponsorship for the net airfare of the most economical flights between Hong Kong and your host institution. This applies if both arrival and departure dates fall within the designated periods outlined in the Table of Exchange Periods. For further details, refer to the Order Form provided to the designated travel agent.

Passage Allowance for Mainland Exchange Participants

• Guangdong Province: HK$1,500

• Regions outside Guangdong Province: HK$3,000

This allowance will be transferred to your bank account upon your departure for the exchange.

Important Considerations

• Arrival and Departure: Arrive at your host institution before orientation and depart after the last day of examinations.

• Key Factors to Consider:

  • Availability of arrival pick-up service

  • Orientation program dates

  • Accommodation check-in and check-out dates

  • Last day of examinations

  • Commencement date of the next term at Lingnan

  • Opening period of student hostels

     

Ticket Purchases

You are responsible for purchasing your own transportation tickets. Please plan your travel carefully before making any purchases. After purchasing your tickets, kindly provide your itinerary and receipt to OGE for record-keeping.

Note: Self-financed students should consult their respective program offices or home departments for additional guidance.

Passport Requirements

• Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay in the host country. Ensure that your document is valid and renew it, if necessary, before departure.

   

Student Visa

• Most countries require a valid student visa for stays exceeding 180 days. Please consult reliable sources, such as official embassy or consulate websites, and refer to general information available online. Always verify the current requirements directly with the relevant embassy or consulate before applying.

   

Visa Application

• Once you receive your acceptance letter from your host institution, apply for your student visa immediately. Bring all required documents to the consulate or embassy. Non-compliance with visa requirements may cause delays or deportation.

   

Mainland Exchange Programme Participants

• Travel Permit and Visa:
  • Hong Kong/Macau residents must obtain a Mainland Travel Permit (港澳居民來往內地通行證/回鄉卡).
  • Non-local students should apply for a China visa.
  • Ensure your Travel Permit or China Visa is valid for at least 6 months beyond your stay; renew if needed through China Travel Service (Hong Kong) Limited.

On-Campus Accommodation

• Application: Check the application details on your host institution's website or in your acceptance package.

• Meal Plans: Choose a meal plan that suits your needs if offered.

• Confirmation: Confirm your accommodation with the host institution before departure.

Important Note:
Students under full exchange agreements must pay the Lingnan hostel fee. You’ll receive a debit note from the Finance Office (FO) before your exchange term. Check your Banner account for this note and ensure timely payment.

Off-Campus Accommodation

If on-campus options are unavailable, you'll need to find private housing:

• Research: Start looking for private accommodation as soon as your exchange application is accepted. Use official sources or reputable companies.

• Caution: Be wary of untrustworthy landlords and agencies.

   

Rental Considerations

• References: Landlords may ask for rental references and financial proof.

• Lease Agreement: Verify if utilities (gas, electricity, water) are included in the rent before signing.

• Payment: Be ready to pay the first month’s rent, last month’s rent, and a security deposit before moving in.

Stay Informed

• Travel Advice: Regularly check the Travel Advice notices from the Hong Kong SAR Government for the latest updates on affected countries.

   

Emergency Contacts

• Embassy Information:

  • HKSAR/China Passport Holders: Obtain contact details for the nearest Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in your host country for legal assistance in emergencies.

  • Other Passport Holders: Familiarize yourself with your country’s consular offices and emergency contacts.

     

Responsible Socializing

• Partying and Clubbing: Exercise caution during social activities, as alcohol and drugs may be present.

• Substance Use: Avoid drug use and alcohol abuse. Understand local laws and customs regarding drinking before participating in social events.