Sub-degree programmes include programmes leading to qualifications at the level of Associate Degree and Higher Diploma. Graduates may choose to apply for sub-degree programmes (which can be divided into government-funded and self-financing programmes) in post-secondary education institutions. Upon completion of the courses and meeting the specified requirements, graduates of sub-degree programmes may articulate to full-time locally-accredited publicly-funded senior year places of first degree or self-financing top-up degree programmes.
For sub-degree programmes not covered by Joint University Programmes Admissions System (JUPAS), candidates sitting for Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE) Examination in the current academic year may lodge advance applications for sub-degree programmes through Electronic Advance Application System for Post-secondary Programmes (E-APP) before the release of HKDSE Examination results. Candidates may also apply for admission directly to individual post-secondary institutions.
Information Portal for Accredited Post-secondary Programmes (iPASS) website also provides information on all locally-accredited full-time associate degree and higher diploma programmes not covered by the JUPAS.