Hawai'i Promise Scholarship

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“The Hawaiʻi Promise Scholarship has provided me with financial aid that saved me so much money. Being a full-time student with two part-time jobs, I didn’t have to worry about my tuition and I was still able to study what I wanted to do. It has helped me pay for my books, supplies [and] classes.”
-Kevin-Clark Labador, Leeward Community College

The Hawai'i Promise is a "last dollar" scholarship that provides financial assistance for qualified University of Hawai‘i Community College students.

For eligible students, the Hawai'i Promise scholarship provides money from UH and the State of Hawai'i to cover direct education costs — including tuition, fees, and an allowance for books and supplies — that are not met by other forms of financial aid.

In fiscal year 2023, almost $3.8 million was awarded to 1,774 eligible students across the seven UH Community Colleges. The average award per student was $2,142, covering direct education costs such as tuition, books and fees. Since its inception in 2017, the Hawaiʻi Promise scholarship has served 8,643 UH students.

Eligibility Requirements:

  1. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
  2. Be a State of Hawai‘i resident or qualify for exempt status that pays in-state tuition.
  3. Be enrolled in at least 6 credits per semester at a UH Community College
  4. Be degree-seeking in a financial aid eligible program.
  5. Must accept all federal and state grants, scholarships, and any other funding sources that do not require repayment
  6. Maintain satisfactory academic progress, as defined by the financial aid policies and federal regulations
  7. Not have already achieved an undergraduate degree

Awards are contingent upon funding and amounts are based upon enrollment level, financial need, and other financial resources.

Need money for college? Use this quick guide to apply for financial aid.

For more information about your Hawai’i Promise Scholarship, or if you have any questions about the financial aid process, please contact the Financial Aid Office at the community college you are enrolled in.

Please email UH Community Colleges or share your experience with us via the form below.