Curiosity beats perfect statements, UK elite universities tell Hong Kong students

British universities are placing a strong emphasis on genuine curiosity and academic perseverance over extensive test preparation and flawless personal statements, according to admissions officials who addressed an education summit in Hong Kong. Representatives from prestigious institutions such as Oxford, Cambridge, and King's College London participated in the Global Education Summit, organized jointly by the South China Morning Post and HSBC Premier. The summit, attended by nearly 11,000 people, centered on studying abroad opportunities.

Samina Khan, Oxford's director of undergraduate admissions, stressed that the admissions process at Oxford begins with a passion for the chosen course. She advised students not to confine their learning to what they are taught in school, encouraging them to research and read widely, including TED Talks. Cambridge's senior regional manager in admissions, Sarah Hales, elaborated that the university seeks candidates with a genuine intellectual curiosity.

She noted that while high grades are a baseline, the university values students from around the world, including Hong Kong, and looks for applicants who challenge assumptions and delve deeper into subjects beyond the classroom.

Hales highlighted the expanding role of artificial intelligence in humanities and noted that course selections are evolving. Cambridge evaluates applicants through small-group discussions that mirror the university's teaching model, focusing on students who question and investigate rather than just those with top grades. The university is introducing standard UAT-UK admissions tests in October 2026 to assess academic ability and suitability for Oxford's rigorous tutorial system.

Meanwhile, King's College London's East Asia representative, Mandy Zhang, emphasized the importance of authentic personal reflection in applications. She advised students to relate their activities to their chosen courses and to demonstrate real stories and competencies, which can be developed through free online and in-person resources. Zhang cautioned against generic introductions, urging applicants to explain what sparked their interest and how they have explored the subject outside school.