The exams body on Friday announced a 4 percent increase in fees for the 2026 Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE) exams and the introduction of a new fees structure for private candidates.

According to the Hong Kong Examinations and Assessment Authority (HKEAA), the fees for school candidates for key language and other subjects have been raised by HK$30 and HK$20 each respectively.

For a candidate taking six subjects – two language and four other subjects – the total fees will amount to HK3,630.

The HKEAA stated that the hike is similar to previous years and remains at a relatively moderate level, with the adjustment taking into account various factors.

For private candidates, a flat fee of HK$595 will be charged and there will be a new two-tier fees structure depending on their residency status.

Candidates who are non-Hong Kong permanent residents are required to pay HK$1,377 for each language subject and HK$1,119 for each additional subject, HK$600 more when compared with that for local residents.

For non-permanent residents who are under 18 years old and sitting the exam for the first time, there will be a new special entry fee of HK$2,000 per person. That would mean examination fees of more than HK$9,800 for those taking four core subjects and two electives.

The HKEAA said the fees and charges had been revised to optimise the use of resources and maintain the long-term financial stability of the body.

"There has been a notable increase in the number of private candidates in recent years. Some of these candidates, holding non-HKDSE qualifications, are required to submit Special Entry applications, which necessitate substantial manpower and resources from the authority to carefully vet each case," it said.

"Additional examination centres and personnel have also been arranged to accommodate the growing number of private candidates, further increasing the operational costs of the HKDSE."