2027 DSE Study Options | Discover New Opportunities and University Pathways in the Netherlands and France

2027 DSE Study Options in the Netherlands and France: Key Highlights

In recent years, competition for university places in Hong Kong has remained intense. Despite years of hard work and preparation for the Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE) examinations, many students may still find themselves unable to secure a place on their preferred university course. For students preparing for the 2027 DSE or concerned that their results may fall short of expectations, studying overseas offers a wider range of opportunities beyond local university admissions. European higher education, with its internationally recognised qualifications, diverse academic programmes and high teaching standards, has become an increasingly attractive option for Hong Kong students.

The Netherlands and France are particularly worth considering, as both countries offer a variety of English-taught and bilingual undergraduate programmes. These allow students to explore different academic pathways based on their interests, qualifications and future ambitions. This guide examines 2027 DSE study options, focusing on the University of Amsterdam (UvA) in the Netherlands and OnCampus Paris in France, whose progression partners include KEDGE Business School and LISAA School of Art & Design. We explore university opportunities, entry requirements, tuition fees and progression routes to help Hong Kong students and parents make informed decisions about studying in Europe.

Source: University of Amsterdam

n Hong Kong, competition for popular university courses such as business, actuarial science, finance, and art and design can be particularly demanding. Even academically capable students may not always secure admission to their first-choice degree programme.

As a result, more students and parents are exploring overseas education opportunities earlier, seeking alternative routes that better reflect their academic interests and long-term career aspirations.

The Netherlands and France offer internationally oriented higher education systems, with a variety of programmes across different disciplines and academic levels. Depending on their DSE results, English proficiency and academic background, students may consider applying directly to undergraduate degree programmes or pursuing suitable university pathway programmes.

For students who are still exploring their academic interests, understanding course content, teaching methods and potential career opportunities is equally important. Seeking professional careers guidance at an early stage can help students identify their strengths and interests, reducing the risk of choosing a programme that does not align with their future goals.

The University of Amsterdam (UvA) is one of the Netherlands' leading research universities, renowned for its academic research, international learning environment and wide range of programmes.

According to the QS World University Rankings 2027, UvA is ranked 60th worldwide. The university enjoys a strong international reputation in fields such as economics, business, social sciences, psychology and communication.

UvA offers a range of English-taught undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, making it an attractive choice for students wishing to study in an international environment.

For Hong Kong DSE students considering higher education in the Netherlands, the University of Amsterdam is an institution worth exploring. However, eligibility for admission depends on the specific academic requirements of each degree programme.

The University of Amsterdam (UvA) is one of the Netherlands' leading research universities, renowned for its academic research, international learning environment and wide range of programmes.

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Situated in the heart of Amsterdam, UvA offers students a vibrant academic environment with comprehensive support services for international students, including assistance with banking, visas, and accommodation. Amsterdam itself is a major European hub for business and culture, providing strong graduate employment prospects and corporate connections with renowned companies such as Philips, ING, and Heineken.

A member of the League of European Research Universities (LERU), UvA is recognised for its research excellence and commitment to interdisciplinary learning. The curriculum places strong emphasis on critical thinking, practical application, and global perspectives — qualities that are highly valued by both employers and graduate schools worldwide.

Source: Shutterstock

France is internationally recognised for its culture, art and fashion. It is also home to respected higher education institutions offering programmes in business, finance, management, design and the creative industries.

For Hong Kong DSE students considering France, OnCampus Paris offers various university progression routes designed to help international students adapt to the academic expectations of European higher education.

OnCampus Paris is based at its teaching centre in the Marais district of central Paris. Students have the opportunity to study in a culturally rich environment while exploring academic options in business, management, art, design and fashion.

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KEDGE Business School 

One of France’s largest and most recognised business schools, KEDGE boasts a graduate employment rate exceeding 90%, with many alumni securing positions at leading firms such as Airbus, Deloitte, and L’Oréal. The school offers practice-oriented bachelor’s degrees in Business, Economics, Finance, and Management, with dedicated career services to support internships and job placements.

With an emphasis on combining business theory with practical application, KEDGE is particularly attractive to students interested in international business and management-related careers.

LISAA School of Design 

A leading design institution specialising in Animation, Fashion Design, Interior Architecture, and Graphic Design. LISAA collaborates with top-tier brands including Louis Vuitton, Hermès, and Prada, providing students with valuable industry exposure and internship opportunities.

The institution places importance on creativity and practical learning, allowing students interested in the creative industries to develop professional knowledge, practical skills and design portfolios.

Istituto Marangoni Paris 

The renowned Italian fashion and design school’s Paris campus offers degrees in Fashion Design, Fashion Business, and Luxury Brand Management. Foundation students may progress to bachelor’s programmes in Fashion Business, Fashion Design, or Fragrance and Cosmetics Management.

For students interested in careers in fashion design, fashion business, luxury branding or brand management, Istituto Marangoni is another institution worth exploring.

Paris offers a culturally rich learning environment and vibrant student life. OnCampus Paris features modern teaching facilities and newly built student accommodation, conveniently located near the Bibliothèque Nationale de France. Compared with the UK and US, France offers more affordable tuition and living expenses — making it an attractive option for Hong Kong families.

Both the Netherlands and France offer a range of overseas study options. Students can compare the opportunities available based on their academic interests, DSE results, English proficiency and family budget.

The tuition fees above refer to specified two-semester pathway programmes commencing in autumn 2027. They do not represent the total cost of an undergraduate degree and exclude registration fees, accommodation and living expenses. Students beginning a pathway programme in autumn 2027 would generally progress to the next stage of their undergraduate studies in 2028, provided they meet the relevant requirements. All arrangements are subject to confirmation by the institutions concerned.

Students interested in economics, management and research-oriented universities may wish to explore opportunities in the Netherlands.

Meanwhile, France offers a variety of institutions and programmes for those interested in business, fashion, art and design.

Ultimately, choosing the most suitable study route involves more than comparing countries or university rankings. Students should consider their academic background, personal interests and long-term aspirations.

Source: Shutterstock 

For DSE students planning to study in the Netherlands or France in 2027, early preparation can make it easier to understand admission requirements and manage the application process.

1. Assess DSE results and academic interests

Students should begin by identifying the subjects and academic areas that interest them. They can then use their predicted or actual DSE results to assess whether direct undergraduate admission or an alternative university pathway would be more appropriate.

2. Check academic and English language requirements

Universities have different requirements regarding DSE subjects, grades and IELTS scores. Some programmes also require specific subjects or additional qualifications, so students should check the criteria for each intended degree carefully.

3. Plan tuition fees and living expenses

In addition to tuition fees, families should budget for accommodation, living expenses, health insurance, visa-related costs and transport.

Preparing a realistic financial plan can help students make more informed decisions about their overseas education.

4. Prepare application documents early

Students should prepare their academic transcripts, qualifications, English language test results and other required documents according to the institution's instructions.

It is also important to monitor programme start dates and application deadlines to avoid missing key stages of the admissions process.

DSE results that fall short of expectations do not have to limit a student's future educational opportunities. Higher education in the Netherlands and France offers a range of academic possibilities, enabling students to explore suitable university pathways based on their abilities, interests and long-term ambitions.

Whether students hope to attend the University of Amsterdam in the Netherlands or explore opportunities at institutions such as KEDGE Business School and LISAA School of Art & Design in France, understanding the relevant entry requirements, programme options and study costs at an early stage can help families make more informed decisions.

With an increasing variety of overseas study options available, students and parents should consider not only university rankings and academic interests but also the overall cost of studying abroad.

Tuition fees and living expenses in the Netherlands and France vary according to the institution, programme and city. Families are encouraged to research accommodation, transport and everyday living costs in advance to establish a realistic study budget. Both countries offer diverse academic experiences and valuable opportunities for students to broaden their international perspectives.

Preparing for the 2027 DSE or interested in studying in the Netherlands or France?

Grove Education's experienced education consultants can provide personalised guidance based on each student's academic achievements, English proficiency, interests and study budget. Our team can help families compare university entry requirements and progression routes, allowing students to develop a study plan suited to their individual goals.

Contact Grove Education to learn more about studying in the Netherlands and France in 2027 and take the next step towards your future education.