University Dreams, Real Costs: How to Plan Ahead For Your Kids Without Panic

If you’ve got kids, chances are you’ve already pictured them in their graduation cap, flashing that proud smile. But let’s be honest — behind that proud smile is a bank account quietly weeping.

Whether your child plans to stay in Hong Kong or fly overseas for their university years, one thing is for sure: those numbers aren’t getting smaller anytime soon. And if you leave it too late, you might end up accidentally using your own retirement fund to send them to school. Oops.

💡 Here’s the thing: university fees wait for no one.
Kids grow up fast (too fast!), and uni entrance doesn’t exactly give you an extension if your savings fall short. The earlier you start, the less “gulp” moments you’ll have later.

🎓 So, How Much Are We Talking About?

Brace yourself. Here’s the damage:

Fun fact (or not-so-fun): these numbers don’t even include visas, flights, insurance, or your kid's daily iced lattes overseas. So let’s just say — it adds up.

How to Prepare Without Losing Sleep

Step 1: Know Your Destination

Are you hoping for local uni? Dreaming of the UK? Eyes on the US or Australia?
Each choice comes with its own price tag — knowing early helps you avoid nasty surprises later.

Step 2: Start Early. Like, Yesterday.

If your kid is 5 now, you’ve got around 13 years to build that education fund.
Let’s say you’re aiming for a UK degree at around HK$1.2M total.
With a decent return of 5% a year, you’re looking at around HK$6,000–7,000 a month.
Manageable, right? But only if you start early. Time is your best friend here!

Step 3: Don’t Gamble with Their Future

Sure, high-risk investments might sound exciting, but this is your child’s education — not the casino.
Opt for safer, steady-growth options like compound interest savings plans or balanced funds.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can mix in some moderate-risk investments, but balance is key! And remember: check in yearly to see if you’re still on track.

The Sooner You Start, The More Options You Give Your Kids

Here’s the beauty of early planning: it’s not just about having the money — it’s about having choices.

💡 The better you prepare today, the more freedom your child will have tomorrow.
Whether it’s picking their dream course, studying abroad, or even taking an extra semester to explore something they love — early savings give your kids room to breathe (and dream).

If you leave it too late, well… even if your child gets into their dream school, you might have to say, “Sorry, we can’t afford it right now.” And I don’t think any of us want to be in that position.

Not Sure Where to Start? Let’s Chat.

If you’re wondering how much you need to save every month to make this happen — you don’t have to guess.

Book a free 30-minute consultation with me. I’ll help you map it all out, crunch the numbers, and build a plan that actually works for your family (without cutting out your weekly bubble tea).

Future-you (and future-your-kid) will definitely thank you.