However, as a professional involved in Hong Kong education for nearly eight years, he has witnessed some long-term obstacles from mainland students.

"Hong Kong adopts many teaching systems in its higher education, including that of the mainland, the UK and the US. Not every student can handle the diversity. Some students are just not used to the system," said He, adding that for Mandarin-speaking mainlanders, language is also an obstacle.

"Cantonese is the main language. Some professors even lecture in Cantonese. In daily life, Cantonese is almost a must when students go grocery shopping or rent an apartment, " he said, adding that the lack of Cantonese skills may create some problems in daily life.

Student Xu found mastering Cantonese is a plus for him to get employed in Hong Kong after graduation.

"Some companies require that employees are able to speak Cantonese," Xu said.

luowangshu@chinadaily.com.cn