Hong Kong's Education Bureau (EDB) has launched an Internet-based service that seeks to assist students taking the Hong Kong Advanced Level Examination (HKALE) and the Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE) examination better plan their study pathways.

Known as the Electronic Advance Application System for Post-secondary Programs (E-APP), the service would specifically help students apply in advance for post-secondary programs not covered by the Joint University Programs Admissions Systems (JUPAS).

EDB said institutions will process E-APP applications and may give eligible candidates conditional offers before the announcement of public examination results.

A spokesman from the EDB said the governments committed to providing multiple and flexible pathways for young people.

"We estimate that this year, there will be more than 75,000 places for post-secondary programs and around 35,000 places for the New Project Yi Jin vocational education and training, and other further study programs," the spokesman said in a media release. "By 2015, we expect that over one-third of our young people in the relevant age group will have the opportunity to study degree programs. Together with sub-degree places, over two-thirds of our young people will have access to post-secondary education."
     
"With these multiple pathways, students can plan their future by taking suitable courses in accordance with their interests, abilities and career aspirations," the EDB added.