Hawaiʻi Promise Program

College can be free with the Hawaiʻi Promise Program.

“The Hawaiʻi Promise Program 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

Imagine going to college without the burden of student debt. The Hawaiʻi Promise Program makes higher education accessible for Hawaiʻi residents by covering direct educational costs at any University of Hawaiʻi Community College. Funded by the state, this program ensures financial need is never a barrier to earning a quality college education.

This is money you never have to pay back—it's not a loan.

What Does it Cover?

If you qualify, the program bridges the financial gap to cover your direct educational costs, including:

  • Tuition and fees
  • Books

By the Numbers

Since launching in 2017, Hawaiʻi Promise has helped more than 11,900 UHCC students.

In the 2024–25 academic year alone, $5.5 million was awarded to 1,941 students—with an average award of $2,933 per student!

Who is Eligible?

  1. You are a Hawaiʻi state resident who qualifies for in-state tuition.
  2. You are enrolled in a UH Community College degree-seeking college program that accepts financial aid (which includes almost all programs).
  3. You take at least six (6) credits per semester—usually just one or two classes.
  4. You maintain at least a 2.0 GPA.

Note: Hawaiʻi Promise amounts are contingent upon funding and amounts are based upon enrollment level, financial need, and other financial resources.

How to See if You Qualify

Step 1: Complete the FAFSA. Submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by the financial aid priority deadline of March 1 for first consideration. Even if you aren't sure you qualify, you should still apply to find out!

Step 2: Enroll at a UH Community College and register for classes at any of the seven campuses.

Need Help? We've Got You Covered!

Don't let the paperwork stress you out. Free, personalized help is available:

Record $5.5M awarded through the Hawaiʻi Promise Program

Maria Reyes

Maria

Kapiʻolani CC

"This program helped me achieve my goals by reducing the financial burden so many students in Hawaiʻi face as inflation and the cost of living soars. My tuition is one less thing I have to worry about while working towards a financially stable future. I am so grateful for the program and the opportunities allotted to me."

Michael Amado

Michael

Former Kapiʻolani CC student, current UH Mānoa student

"The Hawaiʻi Promise Program was incredibly helpful for me in continuing my college education and transferring from Kapiʻolani CC to UH Mānoa. The program not only helped with living expenses but also allowed me not to have to work as many hours so I could devote more time to my studies. …the Hawaiʻi Promise Program is a shining light for students who want a better future for themselves and their families."

Christina Faye

Christina

UH Maui College

“After losing my home along with my hometown in the Lahāina wildfire, the Hawaiʻi Promise Program has helped me get back on my feet by supporting me financially and not having me worry too much about spending my whole paycheck on my tuition.”

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