In Germany, the HKDSE is considered as equivalent to the German school leaving certificate (Abitur). Candidates, who attain a minimum of level 3 in the four core subjects and two elective subjects in the HKDSE, can apply for admission to over 300 German public universities directly. However, some programmes, especially arts, law, medicine, may require additional entry tests. Admission requirements for further study in Germany could be found at the websites of Anabin and German Academic Exchange Service (Deutsche Akademischer Austausch Dienst, DAAD).

For details of the acceptance of the HKDSE qualification of other institutions in Europe, please visit Recognition Search - HKDSE.