The state aid picture
Hawai'i's primary state aid flows through the University of Hawai'i (UH) system, including a promise program that makes community college affordable for residents with need.
Merit & lottery scholarships
- B Plus ScholarshipA merit scholarship for Hawai'i public-high-school graduates who meet a GPA threshold, usable in the UH system.
Promise & free-college programs
The Hawai'i Promise Program is a last-dollar scholarship covering direct education costs (tuition, fees, books) not met by other aid for eligible, need-based residents at UH community colleges.
College savings (529 plan)
Hawai'i's HI529 (Hawai'i's College Savings Program) is the state's tax-advantaged plan.
Applying & the state agency
Nearly all state aid starts with the FAFSA. From there:
- File the FAFSA earlyIt's the trigger for state grants and many scholarships
- Register with University of Hawai'i System Financial AidCreate the state agency's student account to track and claim awards
- Confirm your detailsVerify residency, GPA, and enrollment as required
- Meet any extra requirementsSome programs need a separate form, GPA, or service commitment
- Reapply every yearState aid is awarded annually
Deadlines & timing
State deadlines are typically much earlier than the federal FAFSA deadline, and some aid is first-come, first-served until funds run out. File the FAFSA as soon as it opens (in the fall) and confirm the state's specific priority date.
Tips to maximize state aid
- File the FAFSA as early as possiblePriority deadlines and limited funds reward early filers
- Confirm your residency and eligibilityMost state aid is for residents attending in-state schools
- Maintain the required GPAMerit awards usually require you keep a minimum GPA to renew
- Use the state agency's portalTrack, confirm, and claim your awards there
- Check renewal rules each yearKnow what keeps your award going
Frequently asked questions
- How do I get Hawaii aid?File the FAFSA (and any state form) by the deadline; University of Hawai'i System Financial Aid administers the programs.
- Is it need-based or merit?Both — Hawaii offers need-based and merit programs.
- Are the deadlines earlier than federal?Usually yes — file early, as some aid is first-come.
- Can I use it out of state?Most aid is for in-state schools (with exceptions); check each program.
- Does this list private scholarships?No — this guide covers official programs only.
Key facts
- Free community collegeHawai'i Promise (need-based, last-dollar)
- MeritB Plus Scholarship
- 529HI529
- AgencyUniversity of Hawai'i system
Where to learn more
Confirm current programs, amounts, and deadlines with the agency: