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Easy Admission Colleges in Hawaii

5 schools in Hawaii. See our methodology.

Hawaii's colleges welcome nearly all applicants, with acceptance rates ranging from 72.8% to 96.4% across the state's main institutions. The University of Hawaii-West Oahu accepts 96.4% of applicants while maintaining costs at just $10,666 annually, making it one of the most accessible options in a state known for high living expenses. Four of the five major colleges here accept over 84% of students, reflecting the island state's commitment to educational access despite geographic isolation. These schools serve Hawaii's tourism-dependent economy and significant military presence, with graduates earning between $47,856 and $59,593. The University of Hawaii at Manoa stands as the flagship with 14,306 students, while smaller campuses like UH Hilo focus on serving specific island communities. Private options like Chaminade and Hawaii Pacific provide alternatives, though at higher costs reaching $30,557. All schools benefit from Hawaii's unique position connecting Asia and the mainland United States, creating opportunities in international business and Pacific Rim studies.
5
Schools
$18,906
Avg. Net Price
$53,898
Avg. Earnings
50.1%
Avg. Graduation Rate

Easy Admission Colleges in Hawaii

College listings
# School Acceptance Rate Enrollment Net Price Graduation Rate
1 96.4% 2,510 $10,666 46.8%
2 93.4% 1,648 $28,061 58.1%
3 87.1% 2,502 $30,557 41.2%
4 84.2% 2,260 $12,063 41.6%
5 72.8% 14,306 $13,181 62.6%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes University of Hawaii-West Oahu so accessible to students?

UH-West Oahu accepts 96.4% of applicants and costs just $10,666 annually, making it the most affordable option in Hawaii. With 2,510 students, it focuses on serving the growing Kapolei area and offers a 46.8% graduation rate for students seeking practical career preparation.

How do graduation rates compare across Hawaii's high-acceptance colleges?

Graduation rates vary significantly, from 41.2% at Hawaii Pacific University to 62.6% at UH Manoa. Chaminade University achieves 58.1% despite accepting 93.4% of applicants, while UH Hilo graduates 41.6% of its 2,260 students within six years.

Is attending college in Hawaii worth the high cost of living?

Graduates earn $47,856 to $59,593 annually, with Hawaii Pacific University graduates earning the highest at $59,593. While living costs are steep, these earnings reflect Hawaii's tourism industry, military contracts, and Pacific business connections that create specialized career opportunities.

Does University of Hawaii at Manoa offer advantages despite moderate acceptance rates?

UH Manoa accepts 72.8% of applicants, the most selective in the state, while enrolling 14,306 students. It achieves the highest graduation rate at 62.6% and graduates earn $57,624 annually, reflecting its research focus and established alumni network.

Where can students find the most affordable college education in Hawaii?

UH-West Oahu costs $10,666 annually, followed by UH Hilo at $12,063 and UH Manoa at $13,181. These public options contrast sharply with private colleges like Hawaii Pacific at $30,557, offering significant savings for island residents.

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See our methodology for details on rankings and data sources.