Why Macau is populaed by students from mainland China

For such a small region, Macau has quite a high number of higher education institutions. To be specific, 10.  

Public institutions include University of Macau, Macao Polytechnic University, and Macao University of Tourism. And among the private universities, Macau University of Science and Technology is one of the most popular.  

Interestingly, according to 2024 data, the university with the highest percentage of international students is not in the US or UK, but rather, in Macau.  

Specifically, the top contender is M.U.S.T — Macau University of Science and Technology, which comprises 91.6% non-local students.  

And Study International got to speak to students there to find out why exactly they’ve chosen to study in the special administrative region of China.  

A more “casual” environment  

For many mainland Chinese students, Macau offers a welcome change of pace from the intense academic pressure they grew up with.  

The hyper-competitive gaokao (college entrance exam) culture and the relentless grind of China’s top-tier universities can leave students burned out before they’ve even begun their careers.  

Macau, by contrast, is described by students as a more relaxed and open campus environment.  

Some teachers may be more “chill,” but in truth, it’s not that they don’t care – they would just deduct your points if you don’t perform.  

“Coming from Mainland China, you may feel that the region is very relaxed. But the truth is, everyone here has their own goals and ambitions. So yes, it does seem relaxing, but it’s more just a different learning environment – one that is enjoyable,” one student shares.   

More resources and freedom  

Many students we spoke to mentioned having a broader access to resources in Macau, perhaps as thanks to governmental investment into higher education and strategic internationalisation goals in the region. 

One student pointed out that coursework in Macau seem to be broader, preparing students more holistically.  

“After passing your general courses, you can go various classes, such as humanities or science. It’s not just focusing on your knowledge, but on overall growth,” she says.  

A chance to up English proficiency 

An applied economics student shared with Study International that Macau serves as a very international platform, whereby all courses are taught in English.  

“It exercises our English abilities a lot,” she says. “It also really prepares us for job hunting.”  

This sentiment was repeated quite often. While most students we spoke to were more comfortable speaking Mandarin, many of them say that studying in Macau has improved their English skills.   

Internship opportunities aplenty  

Macau’s geographic and economic position makes it a surprisingly compelling launchpad. Situated at the heart of the Greater Bay Area — one of the world’s most dynamic economic zones encompassing Hong Kong, Shenzhen, and Guangzhou — students see a degree from the region as a bridge between mainland China and the international job market.  

Especially for those who are in hospitality or event management, they have access to the “Big Six” major companies in the region – the exclusive casino concessionaires that hold 10-year gaming licenses extending through 2033.  

Namely, these operators are:  

• Galaxy Entertainment Group 

• Melco Resorts & Entertainment 

Having these companies there means access to internship opportunities and more for students. 

There are also many expos and conferences which serves as an opportunity to network for students. One Chinese student shared with Study International that he even got casual internship offers while volunteering at an expo.  

A launchpad for the world 

A year two student from M.U.S.T shared with Study International that as a northerner, studying in Macau served as a way for her to see how people from the south of China live.  

Numerous students mentioned about preparation for the next steps in their education, such as master’s and PhD programmes in Europe and the US.