Full-time S6 or above

The Diploma of Foundation Studies (DFS) programmes offer 10 streams, equipping Secondary 6 students with trade-related knowledge and skills tailored to their diverse interests. These programmes are designed to meet the needs of students aiming for further studies or career development. With a strong emphasis on both vocational and fundamental elements, the DFS programmes are offered by the Hong Kong Institute of Vocational Education (IVE), Hong Kong Design Institute (HKDI), Hong Kong Institute of Information Technology (HKIIT) and Youth College (YC), all of which are government subvented.

The typical duration of the DFS is one year, emphasising professional and general skills training to help students realise their potential.

DFS graduates can directly articulate to VTC’s Higher Diploma programmes in which they may also apply for module exemptions if they pursue further studies in relevant subject areas.

Additionally, the DFS has been accepted by the Civil Service Bureau (CSB) as meeting the academic entry requirements of grades in the civil service, which requires Level 2 in five subjects including Chinese Language and English Language in the Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education Examination (HKDSE). Students may consider taking the optional module "Foundation Mathematics (III)" for eligibility to apply for VTC’s Higher Diploma Programmes or related civil service jobs, which require Level 2 or above in HKDSE Mathematics as one of their general entry requirements. The programmes are also recognised by a number of professional organisations. Qualified students will be eligible to apply for membership or be awarded professional certification.