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87.1%Acceptance
$33,020Tuition
2,502Students
41%Grad Rate (6-yr)
$59,593Earnings
#16 in HawaiiPrivate nonprofit4-yearSAT/ACT Test OptionalNCAA Division IIStudy AbroadData: 2023-24

Overview

Hawaii Pacific University is a accessible private four-year institution in Honolulu, Hawaii. The school accepts 87.1% of applicants and enrolls 2,502 students.

Admission Statistics

Acceptance Rate
87.1%
Average SAT
1,150
SAT Range (25th–75th)
1,060–1,240
ACT Composite (avg)
24
Total Enrollment
2,502

Your Chances by SAT Score

Strong Candidate
SAT above 1,240

Your score is above the 75th percentile. You are a competitive applicant.

Competitive
SAT 1,060–1,240

Your score falls within the middle 50% of admitted students.

Reach School
SAT below 1,060

Your score is below the 25th percentile. Other parts of your application will need to stand out.

Admission Guide

Hawaii Pacific University uses a rolling admissions process, so you can apply throughout the year without strict deadlines. Submit your application through the Common Application or HPU's online portal along with official transcripts and a personal statement. Most programs don't require standardized test scores, though some merit scholarships consider them.

The nursing program operates more competitively than other majors due to clinical placement limitations and accreditation requirements. Nursing applicants should apply early in the fall and maintain strong science prerequisites. The program requires completion of specific courses before you can advance to upper-level clinical work.

HPU's downtown Honolulu campus houses most business and liberal arts classes, while the Windward campus in Kaneohe hosts marine science programs. You'll likely take classes at both locations during your time there, so factor commute time between campuses into your schedule planning.

Housing fills quickly due to limited on-campus options and Honolulu's expensive rental market. Submit your housing application immediately after admission acceptance. Many students live in off-campus apartments, particularly in the Kalihi and Keeaumoku areas near downtown campus.

New student orientation includes specific sessions about island living costs, which run significantly higher than mainland expenses. Budgeting workshops cover everything from grocery costs to inter-island travel. The university's financial aid office provides resources for managing Hawaii's high cost of living, including information about part-time work opportunities and local student discounts.

What It Costs If You Get In

Average Net Price
$30,557/yr
Tuition (in-state)
$33,020
Students Receiving Aid
20%

View full cost breakdown →

After You Graduate

Graduation Rate (6-year)
41.2%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$59,593/yr
Freshman Retention Rate
57.2%

View full outcomes data →

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Hawaii Pacific University require SAT or ACT scores for admission?

Hawaii Pacific University has a test-optional admissions policy. Students can choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores as part of their application.

What is the application deadline for Hawaii Pacific University?

Hawaii Pacific University operates on a rolling admissions basis with no strict deadline. Applications are reviewed as they are received, but applying earlier increases chances for housing and financial aid.

Can I transfer credits to Hawaii Pacific University from another college?

Hawaii Pacific University accepts transfer credits from accredited institutions. Students need a minimum 2.0 GPA from their previous college to be eligible for transfer admission.

Does Hawaii Pacific University offer early decision or early action programs?

Hawaii Pacific University does not offer early decision or early action programs. The school uses rolling admissions, so students receive decisions within a few weeks of submitting complete applications.