Fewer Hong Kong DSE takers are interested in advancing studies on the mainland or Taiwan than 12 months ago, according to a survey of 1,768 students.

But the Hok Yau Club, which ran the survey from December to last month, also found the number who preferred to continue studies in Taiwan was double that of the mainland.

Twenty-six percent professed an interest in Taiwan, while 11 percent looked to the mainland. It was the second consecutive year the number of students with an eye on education in the mainland has dropped.

Among those who chose to further studies in the mainland, 54 percent said it was because of the lower entry requirements and 33 percent because of encouragement from friends and family. Some also said it was due to a better study environment.

Yet 60 percent of respondents said they would not opt for the mainland as they were concerned about the political environment and the system while 40 percent also feared they would not blend into the community.

Over 60 percent of students said, however, they would be more willing to go to the Greater Bay Area given the range of policies for the area raised in the chief executive's policy address. That included the Greater Bay Area Youth Employment Scheme.

As for Taiwan, students cited lower entry requirements, a better study environment and a similar culture. But nearly half of respondents worried about the legitimacy of qualifications.

Hok Yau Club said over 90 percent of respondents preferred Taiwan because of fewer restrictions for Hong Kong and Macau students.

Hong Kong students are currently allowed to stay for up to one year in Taiwan for post-graduation internships.

"The survey results showed that some students when choosing where to further their studies are more concerned about their lives at the place rather than the contents or qualifications of the subjects," guidance consultant Ng Po-shing said.

But, Ng added, students should also be mindful of the subjects they choose as it would have "an immediate impact."

Ng noted too that students now have greater opportunities to continue studies in Hong Kong as the number has been decreasing steadily.

He also advised students who are planning to study in Taiwan or the mainland to pay attention to updates regarding registration and admissions as there could be changes with the pandemic.

Hok Yau Club student guidance consultant Ng Po-shing, left.

Students turn away from mainland