Student Finance Assistance — How to Apply for SFAA Loan
The Student Finance Assistance Agency (SFAA) provides means-tested grants and loans to eligible students. This guide walks you through the application process.
Overview
The Student Finance Assistance Agency (SFAA) administers several financial assistance schemes for students in Hong Kong attending eligible post-secondary programmes, including the Non-means-tested Loan Scheme (NMTLS) and the Means-tested Subsidy Scheme (MSS).
The Non-means-tested Loan covers tuition fees and living expenses regardless of family income. The Means-tested Subsidy provides grants and loans based on financial need assessed through household income and assets.
Applications are made online via the SFAA ePortal during the annual application period, which typically opens in May–June each year.
Who Can Apply
You may be eligible if you:
- Are a Hong Kong Permanent Resident or have the right of abode
- Are enrolled in an eligible full-time post-secondary programme in Hong Kong
- Meet the financial criteria for means-tested schemes (based on family income and assets)
- For the Non-means-tested Loan: no income/asset restrictions apply
Note: Non-local students are generally not eligible.
How to Apply
Confirm programme eligibility
Check that your course and institution are recognised under SFAA schemes. Most UGC-funded programmes, self-financing degree programmes, and approved sub-degree programmes qualify.
Gather household financial information
For means-tested schemes, you need the income and asset details of your entire household (parents, spouse if applicable). Collect tax demand notes, payslips, bank statements, and property documents.
Register on the SFAA ePortal
Go to the SFAA ePortal (sfaa.gov.hk) and register an account using your HKID number and email address.
Complete the online application
Log in and complete the online form during the application window. Select the schemes you wish to apply for (NMTLS, MSS, or both).
Upload supporting documents
Upload scanned copies of required documents including HKID, proof of enrolment, income proofs, and any other documents requested.
Submit and track your application
Submit your application and note the reference number. You can log in to track the status.
Receive the assessment result
SFAA will notify you by email and post of the assessment outcome. If approved, funds are disbursed directly to your institution or to your bank account.
Documents Needed
- Hong Kong Identity Card (HKID)
- Proof of enrolment from your institution
- Latest tax demand note (salaries tax) for each working household member
- Payslips (recent 3 months) for household members
- Bank statements for all household bank accounts
- Property ownership documents (if applicable)
- Student loan repayment records (if refinancing)
Useful Links
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