Hong Kong students who have completed the Diploma of Secondary Education (DSE) exams can benefit from taking a gap year before entering university, education sector experts have said. They emphasize that students should set clear goals for their future during this period, as experience outside the classroom is increasingly valued by university applicants.

NGOs and experts recommend that students spend the gap year engaging in internships, volunteer work, or exchange programs. Such activities help students gain new perspectives, develop soft skills, and learn new languages, which can help them stand out amid intense competition and the growing influence of artificial intelligence (AI).

The DSE exam results were released on Wednesday, July 15th, 2026, with 58,487 candidates receiving their scores. For many Form Six leavers who have spent years preparing for the exam, taking a gap year has become an alternative to immediately pursuing university studies.

AFS Intercultural Exchanges, a local NGO, runs a year-long overseas exchange program for students aged 15 to 20. This year, 11 of its 58 participants were Form Six leavers, maintaining a steady proportion over recent years.

These insights suggest that a gap year can provide valuable life and learning experiences that complement academic achievements for Hong Kong students.

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