Hawaiʻi Promise Scholarship
Hawaiʻi Promise is a need-based grant for eligible Hawaiʻi residents enrolled at least half time in academic programs at University of Hawaiʻi Community Colleges. It can help with direct education costs—tuition, fees, and a standard books-and-supplies allowance—based on FAFSA and available aid. It is not a universal award at every UH four-year campus; the pathway is limited to the community-college system.
About Hawaiʻi Promise Scholarship
Hawaiʻi Promise is a need-based grant for eligible Hawaiʻi residents enrolled at least half time in academic programs at University of Hawaiʻi Community Colleges. It can help with direct education costs—tuition, fees, and a standard books-and-supplies allowance—based on FAFSA and available aid. It is not a universal award at every UH four-year campus; the pathway is limited to the community-college system.
A major change came with Act 235, signed in July 2026: the program removes its last-dollar restriction and the state may continue covering up to 95% of tuition, allowing some outside scholarships to help with housing, food, or transportation. The effect depends on implementation rules and an individual award package. Older descriptions that subtract every outside scholarship may therefore be outdated for the new cycle.
FAFSA is used to determine need, and students should complete the UH Common Scholarship Application when required by their campus. The university recommends preparing applications early for the next academic year; forms, deadlines, and award figures should be confirmed with the receiving community college’s financial-aid office. Ask whether a minimum credit load applies, because the award may be prorated based on enrollment intensity and adjusted to actual credits.
Living costs in the islands can exceed tuition, and Hawaiʻi Promise is not a full housing scholarship. Review fees, books, supplies, transportation, and personal expenses separately; confirm eligible campuses and programs and whether the award renews term by term. In 2026, ask the system office how Act 235 applies to your file before accepting other awards or planning money for basic needs.
Ask the financial-aid office for a written term-by-term estimate separating tuition, fees, housing, books, and other costs. Keep the award letter, records, and any service agreement. If your studies, residence, or course load change, contact the administrator before that decision affects your aid.
College scholarship and financial-aid program