JUPAS OEA Complete Guide: How to Write a Great Competition Event Experience Achievement

In the highly competitive university application process, the JUPAS OEA (Experience and Achievement in Competitions/Activities) is an important opportunity to demonstrate your abilities beyond your academic achievements. A well-prepared OEA not only highlights your whole-person development, but may also be a key factor in securing your desired degree. This guide will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the OEA writing skills, application process and success strategies to help you stand out in your JUPAS application.

Hong Kong students' participation in extra-curricular activities and award-winning scenes demonstrating the importance of JUPAS OEA

JUPAS OEA Successful Application Statistics

3,000+

Students Successfully Enrolled in Their Preferred Universities

95%

Student OEA is recognised by the institution

40%

Average increase in application success rate

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What is JUPAS OEA?

OEA is Other Experiences and Achievements in Competitions / Activities and is an important part of the JUPAS application. It allows college admissions officers to see what you've done outside of your academic achievements, including your participation in extracurricular activities, competition achievements, community service, etc.

JUPAS OEA Application Form and Completion Guide showing the application system interface

OEA's role in university applications

  • Supplementary Personal Performance and Abilities beyond Academic Achievement
  • Provide rich discussion topics for interviews
  • Decisive factor for admission in case of tie scores
  • Demonstrate your personal attributes, leadership skills and team spirit
  • Demonstrate that you are an outstanding applicant with the ability to develop the whole person.
  • "Universities don't just look at your DSE score, they look at whether you have the multiple abilities to thrive on campus, and the OEA is the perfect opportunity to demonstrate those abilities."

    - Former Director, Admissions Office, The University of Hong Kong

    Importance of OEA in University Applications

    Demonstrating Whole Person Development

    Modern universities are increasingly focusing on the development of the whole person rather than just academic results. Through OEA, you can demonstrate your interests and abilities in different areas and prove that you are a well-balanced student.

    Personalisation

    In the highly competitive world of university applications, OEA can help you stand out from the crowd. Unique experiences and accomplishments add memory to your application, making it easier for admissions officers to remember you.

    Remedying academic deficiencies

    If your DSE results are less than ideal, an excellent OEA can make up for this by demonstrating your excellence in other areas and increasing your chances of getting in.

    Interview preparation

    The OEA experience is often an important topic of discussion in interviews. A well-prepared OEA will provide you with a rich source of material for the interview, demonstrating your communication skills and in-depth thinking.

    Students discuss their JUPAS OEA experience in a university interview, demonstrating the importance of OEA in interviews

    Important Tip:According to JUPAS statistics, more than 80% of successful applicants have submitted OEA information, and in highly competitive and popular departments, the percentage is even higher at 95%.

    What areas of activity does OEA cover?

    JUPAS OEA covers 8 categories of activities to showcase your participation and achievements in different areas. Understanding these categories will help you plan and record your experiences more strategically.

    Academic Related/Intellectual Development Activities

  • Mathematics, Science, Language Competitions
  • Research Projects and Science Fairs
  • Academic Conferences and Seminars
  • Debate competitions and speeches
  • Arts, Music and Cultural Activities

  • Music competitions and performances
  • Art Creation and Exhibition
  • Drama and dance performances
  • Literary Creation and Publication
  • Vocational/employment related experience

  • Internships and Work Experience
  • Vocational Training and Certification
  • Entrepreneurship Programme
  • Industry Conferences and Exhibitions
  • Social/School Services

  • Volunteerism and Community Contribution
  • Services and Duties on Campus
  • Charitable Activities and Fundraising
  • Environmental Programmes and Social Action
  • Leader Training

  • Student unions and student organisations
  • Leader Training Camp
  • Team Leadership Experience
  • Project Management and Organisation
  • Moral and Civic Education

  • Civic Education Programme
  • Moral character development
  • Social Responsibility Programme
  • Human rights and justice activities
  • Religious Activities

  • Religious services and activities
  • Religious education and training
  • Participation of Religious Organisations
  • Flexible Development Projects
  • Physical Activity

  • Sports Competitions and Athletics
  • Athletic Training and Coaching
  • Sports clubs and clubs
  • Health Promotion Activities
  • Showcasing collages of JUPAS OEA's activities in eight categories, including academia, arts, sports and more.

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    OEA Writes Complete Guide

    The JUPAS OEA consists of two parts: awards/activities (up to 10) and additional information (up to 500 words). The following principles should be followed when writing your OEA to ensure that it effectively demonstrates your personal characteristics and abilities.

    OEA Structure Composition

    Part 1: Prizes/Activities (Maximum 10)

    The following information is required for each award/activity:

  • Name of Award/Event
  • Domain (one of the 8 categories)
  • Year of Participation
  • Participation Mode (Competition/Participation)
  • Nature of Activity
  • Participating Roles
  • Award/Non-Award Activities
  • Award Category (if applicable)
  • Award/Event Description (40 words or less)
  • Part 2: Additional Information (500 words or less)

    This section allows you to describe an experience or interest that is significant to your personal growth and life goals. You may:

  • In-depth explanation of the most important activity experiences
  • Reflect on how these experiences have affected you
  • Linking activities to your professional aspirations
  • Demonstrate your values and personal attributes
  • Explain how you can learn and grow from it.
  • The student is completing the JUPAS OEA application form on the computer, showing the two main parts of the OEA.

    Writing Principles

    Quality over quantity

    There is no need to fill up 10 awards/activities, it is more important to choose the most meaningful ones that demonstrate your abilities. In-depth descriptions are better than extensive lists, highlighting your personal contribution and growth.

    Personalisation

    Showcase unique experiences and perspectives that reflect your values and ideas. Connect your personal interests with your professional aspirations to show your growth trajectory and future plans.

    quantitative description

    Describe clear outcomes and impacts using specific data and facts. Quantify your contributions and achievements and provide verifiable information to enhance persuasiveness.

    Logical organisation

    Sort activities by importance and relevance, maintaining consistency of description. Ensure information is accurate, avoid repetition and redundancy, and be clear to judges.

    Pro Tip:Before completing the OEA, collate all activity certificates and information and categorise them in chronological order and importance. This will make it clearer to select the most appropriate activities and ensure that the information is accurate and complete.

    Award/Event Detailed Guidelines

    The JUPAS OEA Award Activity Fill-in Screen showing the location and format of each required field.

    Detailed description of mandatory information items

    1. Name of Award/Event

    Use the official name, both in English and Chinese (if applicable). Avoid abbreviations and acronyms and ensure that the name is accurate and consistent with the name on the certificate.

    2. Scope

    Choose the most appropriate one of the 8 categories. Consider the main nature of the activity and avoid vague or repetitive categorisation. If in doubt, refer to the official JUPAS categorisation guidelines.

    3. Year of participation

    Enter the actual year of participation. If you have participated in the same activity for many years, you may select the most important or most successful year, or mention continuous participation in the description.

    4. Participation modalities

    Select "Competition" or "Participation". Competitions usually have a specific ranking or prize, while participation includes a variety of non-competitive activities, services or training.

    5. Nature of activities

    Choose a specific nature of activity based on the mode of participation, such as competition, service, training, performance or research. This helps to describe your mode of participation more accurately.

    6. Participation roles

    Identify the role you play in the activity, e.g. participant, organiser, leader, volunteer or other specific role. This reflects your level of participation and responsibility.

    7. Award Categories

    If the event awards prizes, select the appropriate prize category, e.g. Champion, First Runner-up, Second Runner-up, Gold, Silver, Bronze, etc. Ensure that the name of the award matches the name on the certificate.

    8. Description of activities

    Describe succinctly and clearly in 40 words or less what the activity was about, what you contributed and what you achieved. Highlight individual roles and impacts, quantify outcomes, and demonstrate learning and growth.

    Notice:All information provided must be true and accurate and may require the uploading of relevant supporting documents. False or exaggerated information may result in disqualification of the application.

    Additional Information Writing Tips

    The additional information section (500 words or less) is an important opportunity for you to demonstrate your personal characteristics and depth of thinking. This section is not a test of language proficiency, but rather an opportunity for the university to learn about your personal growth and life goals.

    Students are writing the JUPAS OEA addendum, demonstrating effective writing strategies and note-taking

    Writing Content Suggestions

    Background and Motivation

    Explain your reasons and motivations for participating in a particular activity. Describe the background and significance of the activity, demonstrate your interest and enthusiasm, and link to your personal values.

    Specific contributions and results

    Describe in detail your specific contributions and responsibilities in the activity. Quantify the results and impact of the activity, demonstrate your problem solving skills, and demonstrate your leadership and collaboration skills.

    Learning and Growing

    Reflect on the learning and inspiration you have gained from the activity. Describe your enhancement and growth, demonstrate the development of values, and link these experiences to your future direction.

    Links to Professional Aspirations

    Explain how these activities relate to your professional interests. Demonstrate your knowledge and passion for your chosen field of study, reflect your future plans, and enhance the consistency and persuasiveness of your application.

    "The additional information section is your opportunity to present your true self to the university. Don't just repeat activity descriptions, but reflect deeply on how these experiences have shaped your values and future direction."

    - GETUTOR Senior Careers Advisor

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    Outstanding OEA Example Analysis

    Below are three different types of OEA examples that demonstrate how to effectively describe different types of activities and accomplishments. Analysing these examples can help you understand how to highlight personal characteristics and growth.

    Academic Competitions

    Event Name:Hong Kong Mathematical Olympiad for Secondary Schools

    Scope:Academic Related/Intellectual Development Activities

    Year of participation:2023

    Participation Patterns:personal data

    Nature of Activity:Competition

    Engagement Role:Participants

    Award Type:Silver Award

    Event Description:

    "Winning a silver medal in the Hong Kong Mathematical Olympiad for Secondary Schools was a significant milestone in my three years of Mathematics study. Through in-depth study of number theory and geometry, I have not only improved my logical thinking skills, but also developed patience and perseverance in facing complex problems. This experience has fuelled my interest in mathematical research and confirmed my determination to study Mathematics at university."

    Social Services

    Event Name:Digital Literacy Training Programme for the Elderly

    Scope:Social/School Services

    Year of participation:2022-2023

    Participation Patterns:Organisations

    Nature of Activity:Serve

    Engagement Role:Project Co-ordination

    Event Description:

    "As the project coordinator of the Digital Literacy Training Programme for the Elderly (DLTEP), I led a team of 15 students to provide training on the use of smartphones and computers to more than 200 elders in the community. I was responsible for programme design, instructor training and progress monitoring, and successfully helped 85% participants to acquire basic digital skills. This experience has given me a deep understanding of the importance of technology diffusion and developed my project management and communication and co-ordination skills."

    Arts & Culture

    Event Name:Inter-school Music Festival Piano Solo Competition

    Scope:Arts, music and other cultural activities

    Year of participation:2023

    Participation Patterns:personal data

    Nature of Activity:Competition

    Engagement Role:entertainer

    Award Type:Champion

    Event Description:

    "I won the first prize in the Inter-school Music Festival's Piano Solo Competition, playing Chopin's Fantasy Impromptu. For this competition, I practised three hours a day for six months, perfecting my technique and musical expression. This success is not only a technical triumph, but also an expression of my deep understanding of the art of music and my emotional commitment. Music has taught me the qualities of concentration, perseverance and pursuit of perfection."

    Three students present their JUPAS OEA success stories, including academic competitions, social services and arts and cultural activities.

    Sample Analysis of Additional Information

    "Education plays an important role in shaping the world of tomorrow, developing people from different fields to become the pillars and change-makers of society and empowering the next generation. I have always dreamt of becoming an educator in Hong Kong, which is why my personal goal is to study a double degree in English and Education at university. I want to be a teacher who brings strength and insight to the younger generation and wants them to live the life they love while remaining true and kind.

    Over the past six years, I have participated in different activities that have further moulded me into an aspiring educator. As a delegate of the Education Commission Youth Summit, I discussed with other delegates on social issues related to education, including topics such as qualification inflation and educational inequality. This stimulated my thinking about education, and I gained more knowledge about the field by understanding the existing problems and difficulties that prevent the education system from becoming better.

    As President of the English Society for two years, I was fortunate to have the opportunity to pass on my passion for language studies and literature to my fellow students. By organising events such as English Week and Book Sharing Day, I was given the responsibility of planning new themes for the events. Being the chairperson has also trained me to communicate both internally and externally within the team. My involvement in extra-curricular activities has taught me the importance of leadership, collaboration and analytical skills, which are highly transferable skills for my future ambitions."

    Example analysis:This additional information successfully links personal experiences and professional aspirations, and clearly demonstrates the applicant's enthusiasm and readiness for education. The essay is well structured, ranging from personal motivation to specific experiences to reflections and future plans, and is logical and persuasive.

    Guidelines for Preparation of Supporting Documents

    The JUPAS system randomly asks applicants to upload supporting documentation for awards and activities listed in the OEA. Preparing adequate documentation is not only a necessary step in the application process, but also enhances the credibility of your OEA.

    Examples of various types of JUPAS OEA supporting documents, including certificates, awards and letters of recommendation

    Type of supporting documents

    Certificates

  • Certificate of Participation
  • Certificate of Completion
  • Accreditation Certificate
  • Certificate of attendance
  • Awards

  • Award
  • Award Cup Photo (with Name)
  • Award photo (with name)
  • Certificate of Honour
  • Other Proofs

  • Letter of recommendation from school or organisation
  • Announcement of results on the official website of the event
  • Official School Documentation
  • Official event photos (with name tags)
  • Document preparation requirements

    Formatting requirements

  • Documents must be in PDF, JPG, JPEG or PNG format.
  • The size of each file should not exceed 1MB.
  • Scans or photos must be legible
  • The document must be complete with all necessary information
  • Content Requirements

  • Must include the applicant's name
  • Must show the official name of the award/event
  • Must include year of participation
  • Award category must be labelled (if applicable)
  • Documents must be issued by an official organisation or school.
  • Documents not accepted

  • Athlete's Licence
  • Invitation / Reply Slip
  • Certificates/medals/trophies not bearing the name of the applicant
  • Press Releases
  • Brochures or leaflets
  • Online grades not listed with active links
  • Unofficial Proof of Documentation
  • Language Requirements

  • The certificate can be in Chinese or English
  • Chinese or English translation is required for certificates in other languages.
  • Translators must be accredited by an official organisation or school
  • Ensure accuracy and completeness of translations
  • Important Tip:The deadline for uploading JUPAS OEA supporting documents is usually in early January each year. Late submissions will not be accepted and may result in the relevant OEA project not being considered. Please make sure you meet the deadline for uploading.

    Common OEA Writing Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

    Comparison of Common Errors and Corrective Examples of JUPAS OEA Modifications by Students

    Mistake 1: Poor choice of activities

    Frequently Asked Questions:Choosing too many low-value or similar activities fails to highlight personal characteristics and abilities.

    Avoidance methods:A selection of high quality, meaningful activities to ensure variety and demonstrate different abilities. It is not necessary to fill all 10 programmes.

    Mistake 2: Description is too simple

    Frequently Asked Questions:Only the names of activities and awards are listed, without descriptions of the participation process and individual contributions.

    Avoidance methods:Describe in detail your role, responsibilities and contribution to the event. Use specific data and examples to demonstrate the impact of the programme and your growth.

    Mistake 3: Lack of personal reflection

    Frequently Asked Questions:Describes only the activity itself and fails to demonstrate the impact and significance of the activity on personal development.

    Avoidance methods:Reflect on the learning and growth that the programme has brought you, linking the programme to your values and future development and demonstrating deep thinking.

    Mistake 4: Inaccurate information

    Frequently Asked Questions:Exaggerate or misrepresent your activity experience, or fill in information that does not match your supporting documents.

    Avoidance methods:Ensure that all information is true and accurate and can be verified by supporting documents. Honesty is a fundamental principle in the application process.

    Mistake 5: Poor formatting

    Frequently Asked Questions:Failure to follow the format required by JUPAS or omission of certain required fields.

    Avoidance methods:Read the official JUPAS guidelines carefully to ensure that you fill in all the necessary information in the required format and check it several times before submitting.

    Mistake 6: Failure to connect professional aspirations

    Frequently Asked Questions:Lack of relevance of the OEA content to the department or area of specialisation for which the application is being made.

    Avoidance methods:Choose an activity that is relevant to the department for which you are applying, or demonstrate in your description how the activity has fostered competencies and interests relevant to the profession.

    "The most successful OEA is not just a list of activities, but a story that shows your personal journey. It should reflect who you are, what you care about, and who you want to be."

    - Admissions Officer, The Chinese University of Hong Kong

    Student Success Stories

    Below are three examples of students who have successfully gained admission to their desired universities through a well-prepared OEA. Their experiences can provide you with valuable reference and inspiration.

    Successful applications from the Faculty of Medicine

    Successful medical students presenting their JUPAS OEA and offer letters

    Student Background:Excellent DSE results (5**5*5*5*5*5*5), extensive experience in healthcare related activities

    OEA Highlights:

  • Hospital Volunteer Service (200 hours cumulative)
  • Red Cross First Aid Certificate and Service
  • Participation in medical-related research projects
  • Health Education Community Outreach Programme Organisations
  • Elements of Success:The OEA clearly demonstrates an ongoing passion and practical preparation for medicine, and the additional information provides insightful reflections on how the service experience has shaped the aspirations for a career in medicine.

    The end result:Successful admission to the Faculty of Medicine of The University of Hong Kong

    Successful application from the Faculty of Engineering

    Successful engineering students presenting their robotics competition awards and technological innovation projects

    Student Background:Outstanding results in science subjects (5*5*5*5), strong interest in science and technology innovations

    OEA Highlights:

  • Silver Medal in International Robotics Competition
  • Science Fair Innovation Project Award
  • Programming Competition and Open Source Project
  • STEM Education Promotion Activities Organisation
  • Elements of Success:OEA demonstrates innovative thinking and practical skills, experience in solving practical problems and the ability to work in a team.

    The end result:Accepted by the Faculty of Engineering of the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology

    Successful applications from business schools

    Successful applicants of Business Studies present their experience as Student Union Chairmen and awards of Business Plan Competition

    Student Background:Arts and Sciences (5*5*5*5) with outstanding leadership skills

    OEA Highlights:

  • Experience of Student Union President
  • Champion of the Hong Kong Secondary School Business Plan Competition
  • Youth Entrepreneurship Programme Participation
  • International Business Case Study Competition
  • Elements of Success:The OEA highlights leadership and business acumen, and the additional information provides a strong link between leadership experience and business management skills.

    The end result:Admitted to the Faculty of Business of The Chinese University of Hong Kong

    "My OEA not only helped me get an interview, but it also became an important topic of discussion during the interview. The professors were particularly interested in my volunteer experience at the hospital, which gave me the opportunity to demonstrate my understanding and passion for medicine."

    - Students of the Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong

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    JUPAS OEA Frequently Asked Questions

    Must the OEA be submitted?

    Submission of an OEA is optional, but highly recommended. Statistically, more than 801 successful applicants to TP6T have submitted an OEA, which demonstrates your abilities and experiences beyond your academic performance, especially important in competitive departments.

    How many events can I submit?

    The Awards/Activities section can be completed with a maximum of 10 items, but it is not mandatory to fill it up. It is recommended that you choose the most meaningful activity that best demonstrates your ability and character. Quality is more important than quantity.

    How to choose the most suitable activity?

    The following factors should be taken into account when selecting an activity: 1) relevance to the department for which you are applying; 2) depth and continuity of the activity; 3) your role and contribution to the activity; 4) personal abilities and attributes that the activity will demonstrate; and 5) whether there will be tangible outcomes and impacts.

    Do the supporting documents need to be notarised?

    Notarisation is not normally required, but a clear and complete scan or photograph of the original is required. If the certificate is not in Chinese or English, a certified translation is required. All documents must contain the name of the applicant, the name of the activity, the year of participation and the category of the award (if applicable).

    Is OEA of equal importance to different professions?

    Different professions may attach different importance to OEA. Generally speaking, professions that require specific qualities and experience, such as medicine, education, and social sciences, may place more emphasis on OEA, but no matter which profession you are applying to, an excellent OEA will increase your competitiveness.

    When is the OEA deadline?

    The deadline for OEA submissions and supporting document uploads is usually in early January each year.The deadline for 2025 is 2 January 2025 (23:59). Please be sure to meet the deadline; late submissions will not be accepted.

    Frequently Asked Questions and Answers about JUPAS OEA for Students in front of Computer

    Start your OEA optimisation journey today!

    A well-prepared JUPAS OEA can be a key advantage in your university application. Whether you are just starting to plan your OEA or need professional guidance to improve your existing content, GETUTOR's team of expert tutors can provide you with personalised support.

    GETUTOR professional tutors are guiding students to perfect the JUPAS OEA application.

    Personalised OEA Planning

  • Evaluation of Existing Activities and Achievements
  • Develop a personalised OEA strategy
  • Choose the most favourable combination of activities
  • Planning for Future Event Participation
  • Professional Clerical Supervision

  • OEA Activity Description Writing
  • In-depth guidance on additional information
  • Clerical revision and refinement
  • Language Expression Optimisation
  • Full application support

  • Guidance on Preparation of Supporting Documents
  • JUPAS Filling Assistance
  • Interview preparation and modelling
  • Application Strategy Consultation
  • Don't miss the opportunity to enhance your competitiveness

    Contact a GETUTOR tutor today for personalised JUPAS OEA guidance!

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