HKU School of Computing and Data Science Launches 2026 Research Internship Programme with Stipend for Global Undergraduate Students
The School of Computing and Data Science at the University of Hong Kong (HKU) has announced its 2026 Research Internship Programme, offering outstanding undergraduate students an opportunity to gain hands-on research experience in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Data Science.
The highly competitive summer programme is expected to welcome approximately 40 talented students from Mainland China, Hong Kong, and other countries around the world. Selected interns will receive a stipend of approximately HK$19,601 and will work closely with HKU faculty members on cutting-edge research projects.
Designed to introduce students to advanced research and postgraduate study opportunities, the internship provides a valuable platform for aspiring researchers and future graduate students to deepen their academic and technical expertise while engaging with one of Asia’s leading universities.
About the HKU Research Internship Programme
The HKU School of Computing and Data Science Research Internship Programme aims to provide undergraduate students with direct exposure to academic research in rapidly evolving fields such as computer science, artificial intelligence, machine learning, data science, and related disciplines.
During the internship, each participant will be assigned to a faculty-supervised research project and will work alongside professors, doctoral researchers, and postgraduate students.
The programme seeks to:
- Introduce students to academic research environments
- Strengthen research and analytical skills
- Provide mentorship from leading researchers
- Encourage students to pursue postgraduate studies
- Foster innovation in computing and data science fields
- Build international academic networks
At the end of the internship period, participants will be required to deliver a presentation showcasing the outcomes of their research projects.
Internship Benefits
Successful applicants will receive a range of benefits through the programme, including:
- A total internship stipend of approximately HK$19,601
- Direct supervision by HKU faculty members
- Hands-on research experience in Computer Science and AI-related fields
- Exposure to postgraduate research environments
- Opportunities to collaborate with PhD students and researchers
- Professional and academic development opportunities
- An internship certificate upon successful completion of the programme
For students considering research careers or graduate education, the programme offers valuable insight into the expectations and realities of academic research.
Internship Duration
The tentative internship period is scheduled to run from:
19 July 2026 to 31 August 2026
The exact duration may be adjusted through discussions between interns and their assigned supervisors.
Participants are expected to work full-time on their research projects throughout the internship period.
Eligibility Requirements
The programme is open to undergraduate students studying in Hong Kong, Mainland China, and overseas institutions.
Eligible applicants must:
- Be current Year 2 or Year 3 undergraduate students
- Be enrolled in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, or a closely related discipline
- Demonstrate strong academic performance
- Show an interest in research and postgraduate study
- Be available to participate in the full internship period
The programme welcomes applications from students attending universities around the world.
Research Areas and Faculty Supervision
Each intern will be matched with a research project under the guidance of an HKU faculty member whose research interests align with the student’s academic background and interests.
Research opportunities may span various fields, including:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Machine Learning
- Data Science
- Computer Systems
- Software Engineering
- Cybersecurity
- Computational Theory
- Human-Computer Interaction
- Emerging Computing Technologies
Applicants are strongly encouraged to identify and contact potential supervisors before applying to improve their chances of securing an internship placement.
The university notes that internship offers are generally nominated by individual supervisors rather than the department itself.
Visa Support for International Students
International students admitted to the programme may apply for a training visa through the Hong Kong Immigration Department.
To support the visa application process, students must provide:
- An official supporting letter from their home institution
- Confirmation that their institution supports their participation in the internship
- Assurance that they will return to continue their studies after completing the programme
The university emphasizes that a tourist visa cannot be used for participation in the internship programme.
Living Expenses and Additional Support
Students who participate on campus may discuss additional financial support with their supervisors.
According to the programme guidelines, some supervisors may provide extra funding to assist with:
- Airfare expenses
- Accommodation costs
- Local transportation
- Living expenses in Hong Kong
The combined support package is intended to help students manage their expenses throughout the internship period.
Full-Time Research Commitment Required
HKU has emphasized that interns are expected to dedicate themselves fully to their assigned research projects.
Participants are expected to:
- Work full-time throughout the internship
- Engage regularly with supervisors and research teams
- Participate in daily discussions and meetings
- Complete project milestones
- Present research findings at the end of the programme
Students are discouraged from taking additional part-time or full-time employment during the internship period.
Current Application Status
The School of Computing and Data Science has announced that the 2026 internship programme is currently full. However, the programme remains a valuable opportunity for future applicants interested in research internships at HKU.
Students interested in future editions of the programme are encouraged to monitor announcements from the university and begin identifying potential research supervisors early.
A Gateway to Research and Postgraduate Opportunities
The HKU School of Computing and Data Science Research Internship Programme continues to attract talented undergraduate students from across Asia and beyond. Through faculty mentorship, research experience, and exposure to postgraduate studies, the programme provides participants with a strong foundation for future academic and professional success in computing, artificial intelligence, and data science.
For aspiring researchers and innovators, the programme serves as an important stepping stone toward graduate education and careers at the forefront of technological advancement.
VISIT HERE TO APPLY
For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn and WPChannel
Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization offering this opportunity. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications & CVs to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding
