Colleges in Hawaii

Hawaii offers 19 colleges and universities serving 40,552 students across the Pacific archipelago. The University of Hawaii at Manoa stands as the state's flagship institution, leading a system that includes several community colleges like Kapiolani and Leeward. Hawaii's higher education landscape emphasizes marine science, tropical agriculture, and Pacific studies, leveraging the islands' unique geographic position for specialized research opportunities. Students considering Hawaiian schools should expect an average acceptance rate of 78%, making admission relatively accessible compared to mainland institutions. In-state tuition averages $10,529, though out-of-state students face significantly higher costs. Campus life centers around outdoor activities and multicultural communities, though students should consider the isolation factor and higher living expenses due to Hawaii's remote location. The state's smaller scale means fewer program options overall, but those available often provide distinctive learning experiences unavailable elsewhere in the United States.