Top 5 Direct Subsidy Scheme (DSS) Secondary Schools in Hong Kong: Admissions Guide for Parents
Choosing a secondary school in Hong Kong can feel overwhelming — especially if you’re considering Direct Subsidy Scheme (DSS) schools. These schools offer a unique mix of public funding and private flexibility, combining academic excellence with enriched programmes in languages, leadership, STEM, and the arts.
DSS schools are not part of the government’s SSPA Central Allocation system, which means they run their own entrance exams, interviews, and admissions schedules — typically starting as early as September of Primary 6. Many of Hong Kong’s most competitive secondary schools now operate under the DSS model, and gaining entry requires strategic preparation in both academics and soft skills.
In this guide, we break down five of the top DSS secondary schools in Hong Kong, looking at:
Their admissions timelines
Entrance exam subjects
Interview formats
What makes each school competitive
How to prepare your child in Primary 6
Whether your child is sitting entrance exams this year or preparing for next year’s cycle, this guide will help you navigate the application process with confidence.
Contents
DSS – General Information
What is a DSS school?
How are DSS schools different?
Is a DSS school better than a government school?
Do DSS schools hold entrance exams and interviews?
Do DSS schools charge school fees?
How much do DSS schools cost?
Is English the main language of instruction?
When should I start preparing for DSS school applications?
St. Paul's Co-educational College (SPCC)
Diocesan Boys’ School (DBS)
Heep Yunn School
St Stephen’s College
HKUGA College (Hong Kong University Graduates Association College)
DSS English Preparation
Do students need to revise for the SSPA?
Where can I find practice materials?
How can I help my child prepare for the SSPA?
Direct Subsidy Scheme (DSS) – General Information
What is a DSS school?
A Direct Subsidy Scheme (DSS) school is a type of secondary school in Hong Kong that receives partial funding from the government but operates independently. DSS schools have the freedom to design their own curriculum, set school fees, and manage admissions processes, unlike traditional government or aided schools that follow the standard system.
How are DSS schools different?
DSS schools differ from government and aided schools in several key ways:
They are not part of the SSPA Central Allocation system.
They can design their own curriculum (often more flexible or enriched).
They charge school fees and may offer scholarships or fee remission.
They hold their own entrance exams and interviews, allowing them to select students based on their own criteria.
This makes DSS schools attractive to parents seeking a more personalised, English-medium, or academically rigorous education for their child.
Is a DSS school better than a government school?
It depends on your child’s needs and your family’s priorities. DSS schools often:
Provide a higher level of English instruction
Offer broader co-curricular programmes
Emphasise whole-person development
Attract high-achieving students
However, they also tend to be more competitive, require entrance preparation, and charge fees. Government schools follow a standard curriculum and are free, which may suit families seeking a more traditional or accessible path.
Do DSS schools hold entrance exams and interviews?
Nearly all DSS secondary schools conduct school-based entrance exams (commonly in English, Chinese, and Mathematics), followed by a face-to-face interview. These assessments help schools evaluate academic ability, English fluency, confidence, and extracurricular strengths.
Do DSS schools charge school fees?
DSS schools receive partial government funding, but they are allowed to charge annual school fees to cover additional resources, facilities, and programme enhancements.
How much do DSS schools cost?
Fees vary by school, but most top DSS schools charge between HKD $20,000 and $70,000 per year. Some schools offer scholarships or financial aid, and payment plans are often available.
Is English the main language of instruction?
In most elite DSS secondary schools, yes — English is the main or full medium of instruction (EMI) for core subjects like English, Mathematics, and Science. This is one reason strong English skills are essential for both entrance and academic success.
When should I start preparing for DSS school applications?
You should start preparing in Primary 5, or by early Primary 6 at the latest. Most DSS applications open between September and November, with exams and interviews held between October and January. Preparation should include:
Reading comprehension and writing practice
Interview training (especially in English)
Portfolio development and extracurricular tracking
St. Paul's Co-educational College (SPCC)
33 MacDonnell Road, Mid‑Levels, Hong Kong
What is St. Paul's Co-educational College?
Founded in 1915, St. Paul’s Co-educational College (SPCC) is one of Hong Kong’s most prestigious Direct Subsidy Scheme (DSS) secondary schools. Known for its academic excellence, strong English-medium instruction, and commitment to whole-person education, SPCC offers both the HKDSE and International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP).
When do applications open?
Applications for S1 (Form 1) entry usually open in late September or early October of Primary 6. Parents must apply directly through the school, as SPCC is not part of the SSPA allocation system.
Does St. Paul’s Co-educational College hold entrance exams?
SPCC administers a school-based entrance exam as part of the admissions process. The assessment typically includes:
English: Reading comprehension, vocabulary, and structured writing
Mathematics: Problem-solving and logical reasoning (in English)
Chinese: Reading and writing (may be exempted for non-Chinese speaking applicants)
The entrance exam usually takes place in December or January.
Does St. Paul’s Co-educational College hold interviews?
Shortlisted candidates are invited to attend a face-to-face interview, usually conducted in English and Cantonese. The interview may include:
Personal questions and interests
Reading aloud or responding to English comprehension tasks
Problem-solving or situational questions
Assessment of confidence, communication skills, and suitability for SPCC’s values
Is English the main medium of instruction at SPCC?
SPCC is an English-medium school, with most academic subjects taught in English. Strong English proficiency is essential for success in both the entrance process and the school curriculum.
When are offers made?
Admissions decisions are typically released in March, ahead of the SSPA Central Allocation results. This allows families to confirm a place without waiting for government school placement.
Does SPCC charge school fees?
As a DSS school, SPCC charges an annual tuition fee (approx. HKD $38,000–$60,000), with financial assistance and fee remission schemes available for eligible students.
Why is SPCC considered highly competitive?
SPCC consistently ranks among the top schools in Hong Kong for public exam performance, particularly the HKDSE and IB. It attracts high-achieving students from across the city and is known for its emphasis on academic rigour, music and sports, leadership, and global citizenship. The school’s need-blind admissions and holistic selection process make entry especially competitive.
Diocesan Boys’ School (DBS)
131 Argyle Street, Mong Kok, Kowloon, Hong Kong
What is Diocesan Boys’ School?
Founded in 1869, Diocesan Boys’ School (DBS) is a highly esteemed Anglican boys’ school operating under the Direct Subsidy Scheme (DSS). It offers both the HKDSE and International Baccalaureate (IBDP) curricula, using English as the main medium of instruction.
When do applications open?
Application windows typically open for Primary 6 students in September to October. Exact dates vary annually and are listed on the school website.
Does DBS hold entrance exams?
DBS administers a written entrance exam that includes:
English
Mathematics
Chinese (or French as an alternative)
Does DBS hold interviews?
Shortlisted boys are invited to attend an interview conducted in both English and Cantonese, hosted by the school’s English and Chinese Departments. Applicants with talents in sports or music may also be asked to partake in related auditions or trials.
Is English the main language of instruction?
DBS is an English Medium Instruction (EMI) school. Most academic subjects are taught in English.
When are offers made?
Successful applicants are typically notified in late March or early April, ahead of the SSPA allocation phase. Parents must then sign a Letter of Undertaking to confirm acceptance and agree to withdraw from the SSPA pool.
Does DBS charge school fees?
As a DSS school, DBS charges annual tuition fees. While precise figures vary, DSS schools generally charge between HKD $20,000 and $70,000 per year.
Why is DBS considered highly competitive?
DBS is renowned for its rigorous academic standards, top-tier results in public exams and the IB programme, and strong performance in music and sports. The school is sought after by top students city-wide, making its application process exceptionally competitive.
Heep Yunn School
1 Farm Road, Kowloon City, Kowloon, Hong Kong
What is Heep Yunn School?
Heep Yunn School is an Anglican girls’ school established in 1936. It transitioned to the Direct Subsidy Scheme (DSS) model starting in September 2012, combining a strong tradition in girls' education with the autonomy to enhance its curriculum and resources.
When do applications open?
While the school does not publicly list precise dates, DSS application cycles typically open in September to November of Primary 6.
Does Heep Yunn School hold entrance exams?
There is no official confirmation of a formal written entrance exam from publicly available sources. However, many DSS schools assess applicants via academic reports, portfolios, and interviews.
Does Heep Yunn School hold interviews?
Applicants attend an interview. In the 2024–25 admissions cycle, interview notifications were emailed to families in early November. Interviews often take place soon after.
Is English the main language of instruction?
English is used as the major medium of instruction across most subjects, except for certain Chinese-related classes.
When are offers made?
Specific dates are not publicly available, but offers are generally made ahead of SSPA Central Allocation results, typically by March or April.
Does Heep Yunn School charge school fees?
For 2024, the annual tuition fee was approximately HKD $41,350, reflecting an increase of around 5.6%.
Why is Heep Yunn School competitive?
Heep Yunn is highly regarded, particularly for its academic excellence, extensive co-curricular offerings (including over 60 programmes), and holistic development focus — spanning sports, music, debate, and community service
St Stephen’s College
22 Tung Tau Wan Rd, Stanley, Hong Kong
What is St Stephen’s College?
St. Stephen’s College is one of Hong Kong’s most historic and prestigious DSS secondary schools. Established in 1903, it stands out as an English-medium, co-educational DSS boarding school with a serene, seaside campus—offering both day and residential options. It’s also the largest secondary school in the territory by campus size and includes heritage-listed buildings on site.
When do applications open?
As a DSS school, applications for S1 generally open in September to November of the Primary 6 year. Specific dates are announced by the school each year.
Does St. Stephen’s College hold entrance exams?
SSP typically conducts entrance assessments in English, Mathematics, and Chinese. The exam structure aligns with DDS expectations for academic rigour, though exact formats may vary annually.
Does St. Stephen’s College hold interviews?
Shortlisted applicants are invited for face-to-face interviews. Given the boarding element, interviews often assess maturity, communication skills, and independence, in addition to academic readiness.
Is English the main language of instruction?
Most academic subjects at SSP are taught in English, with Chinese subjects taught in Cantonese or Mandarin. Native-level English proficiency is essential for both academic success and entrance evaluation.
When are offers made?
Offers are typically released before the SSPA Central Allocation, often in March or April, giving families clarity ahead of SSPA deadlines.
Does the school charge fees?
As a DSS institution, SSP charges tuition, which helps fund enhanced facilities, including its boarding campus and historic infrastructure. Precise fee levels are published yearly by the school.
Why is St. Stephen’s College competitive?
With its extensive heritage campus, boarding option, and academic excellence, SSP is exceptionally sought-after. The unique combination of tradition, environment, and DSS flexibility makes it highly competitive among Hong Kong’s DSS school
HKUGA College (Hong Kong University Graduates Association College)
No. 9 Nam Fung Road, Wong Chuk Hang, Hong Kong
What is HKUGA College?
HKUGA College is a Direct Subsidy Scheme (DSS) co-ed secondary school established in 2006 by the HKU Graduates Association Education Foundation. It offers a holistic, English-medium education designed to cultivate inquiry, leadership, and independent learning.
When do applications open?
For the 2025–2026 academic year, the application window was from the 14th of November to the 12th of December 2024, via the school’s online portal.
Does HKUGA College hold entrance exams?
Applicants must sit an initial written entrance exam on the 21st of June 2025 (tentative). Shortlisted students may then be invited for a second written test and an in-person interview.
Does HKUGA College hold interviews?
All applicants are invited to a first-round interview on the 4th of January 2025, with a subset proceeding to a second-round interview based on their application performance.
Is English the main medium of instruction?
HKUGA College uses English as the major medium of instruction. Junior Chinese lessons use Putonghua, while senior-level Chinese and Chinese History are taught in Cantonese.
What are the admissions criteria and weightings?
Selection is based on:
40% – Academic results
40% – Interview performance
15% – Non-academic achievements (e.g., co-curricular activity, community service)
5% – Other factors (such as siblings attending HKUGA institutions)
When are successful applicants notified?
Successful DP applicants are informed by the end of April 2025, via email and formal correspondence.
Does HKUGA College charge school fees?
For the 2024–2025 school year, annual tuition for S1 was approximately HKD 44,000, with slight adjustments planned for 2025–2026 hkugac.edu.hk+1. The school also offers fee remission and scholarships based on financial need or merit.
Why is English preparation important for HKUGA College?
Strong English language proficiency is vital for success in both the written exam and interview, as the school emphasizes English-medium instruction, verbal reasoning, and academic writing skills across all subjects.
Why is HKUGA College considered competitive?
The school offers a modern, inquiry-based curriculum with a strong academic record and a nurturing environment that fosters creativity and critical thinking. Its DSS status, English-rich environment, and rigorous selection process make it highly sought-after by families across Hong Kong
Primary 6 English Preparation
Do Students need to revise for DSS School Admissions?
Yes — absolutely. Hong Kong DSS School Admissions is highly competitive, with far more Primary 6 students applying to top secondary schools than there are available places. While selection is based on a student’s school performance and interview, the process demands strong preparation. Applicants need to be confident in handling English-medium interviews, demonstrating clear and accurate communication, and responding to questions about complex reading passages or scenarios quickly and effectively.
Where can I find practice materials for DSS School Admissions?
How can I help my child prepare for their Primary 6 English Assessments
There are many ways you can support your child's preparation for DSS school admissions.
1. Primary 6 English Tuition 👩🏫
Tuition can be a useful tool to assist your child’s preparation for Primary 6 English because it can help them progress faster than they otherwise would do at school. There are several different types of tuition available for Primary 6 students, each with their own benefits.
🙋🏿♂️ Individual Tuition: learning alone provides a 1-on-1 environment in which some students thrive due to uninterrupted attention from a tutor. This can be done in-person or online, and it can achieve great results for your child. Particularly in subjects such as maths, where students are required to fully understand each step of the question in order to arrive at the correct answer.
👨👧👧 Group Tuition: group tuition provides a collaborative learning environment where students can interact with peers and learn from each other, as well as their tutor. A collaborative learning environment is especially helpful in subjects such as English comprehension and composition. Students can listen to and analyse each other’s answers in order to improve and refine their own.
Group tuition can achieve exceptional results compared to a class in school because all of the children are highly-motivated and ready to learn. The tutor must also teach the class at the appropriate level to achieve excellent DSS school admissions performance, not at the level of the least able student (as in school). It's also a more cost-effective option.
👩🏽🏫 In-Person Tuition: this traditional approach involves face-to-face sessions with a tutor, either individually or in a small group. In-person tuition allows for personalised attention and immediate feedback, but it can often be less thoroughly planned and more improvised than online tuition.
👩🏼💻 Online Tuition: learning online is an increasingly popular choice. It offers flexibility and convenience, allowing students to learn from the comfort of their own homes with top-rated tutors from across the US and UK.
Furthermore, the lesson plans are more robust and less improvised than in-person tuition because, in order to effectively deliver an online lesson, the teacher absolutely must have a variety of pre-prepared and well-structured resources ready to be shown through the screen.
⏩ Intensive Courses: intensive courses are designed to cover a significant amount of material in a short period of time. They're ideal for parents who want a more structured learning programme with a clear start and end point. At times, tuition sessions can drag on without the progress or structure of the learning totally evident. Intensive courses are a good remedy for this problem.
The Exam Coach: Your Partner In Primary 6 English Tuition
The Exam Coach delivers group online tuition for children studying to sit the SSPA or DSS School Admissions. We offer weekly online tuition workshops that fit in with your schedule and set your child on a steady path of improvement.
Our 11 Plus Tuition Model
👨🏼🏫 Expert Tutors: our tutors are experienced, top-performing teachers who are passionate about helping children succeed in English.
✅ Proven Approach: our approach is based on years of experience and has helped countless students achieve their goals.
🎯 Targeted Skill Development: sessions are focused on essential English techniques and skill development in order to score marks in the exam.
⏰ Online and Flexible: our online tuition options offer flexibility and convenience, allowing your child to learn from home.
📚 Comprehensive Preparation: we specialise in the core SSPA English disciplines, including comprehension, revision and editing.
🏆 Build Exam Confidence: our supportive and encouraging group learning environment helps build your child's confidence and reduces anxiety about the SSPA.
With The Exam Coach tuition team, your child will be well-prepared and confident on exam day.
2. Practice Tests and Mock Exams 📝
Practice tests are a vital preparation resource for several reasons:
😱 Familiarisation with Format: working through practice tests helps your child become comfortable with the structure, timing, and types of questions they'll encounter in the actual SSPA.
🔎 Identify Areas for Improvement: by reviewing their answers with a mark schemes, you can work with your child to pinpoint their strengths and weaknesses.
💪 Build Exam Technique: practice tests help develop essential exam skills, such as time management, careful reading, and clear answer presentation.
Complete the form below to access our free SSPA English exercise.
3. Focus on Key Skills 🔑
The NCEE draws heavily on concepts taught through Primary 6, but success often comes down to how fluently students can apply those skills under pressure. Here are four high-impact areas to prioritise during prep:
📖 Active Reading Practice: Encourage your child to read regularly across different genres—fiction, non-fiction, biographies, science articles, and persuasive writing. Exposure to varied writing styles helps build the comprehension and inference skills needed for the NCEE’s English section. Ask questions like: What’s the main idea? What’s the author’s tone? Why did they include that detail?
🧠 Mental Maths & Estimation: Quick recall of number facts, factors, and basic calculations makes problem-solving much faster—especially since calculators aren’t allowed on the NCEE. Practise estimation strategies, arithmetic shortcuts, and number sense using flashcards, brainteasers, or even real-life maths during shopping or cooking.
📝 Grammar & Editing Awareness: Build a strong foundation in grammar by practising sentence corrections and short editing exercises. Focus on common NCEE issues: verb tense consistency, punctuation, transitions, and logical sentence flow. You can even pause during reading to ask, Could this sentence be clearer?
💬 Vocabulary Building: NCEE passages often contain advanced vocabulary, so aim to introduce a few new words each week. Use vocabulary journals, word maps, or synonym challenges. Encourage your child to use new words in their writing or daily conversations to reinforce them naturally.
