University of Hawaii at Manoa
The Vibe Check
Attending the University of Hawaii at Manoa feels like living in a tropical research hub where the campus is an extension of the surrounding lush, green mountains and blue Pacific. There's a distinctly relaxed, 'aloha' atmosphere, but it's energized by a diverse student body and a strong focus on environmental and cultural studies. You'll find a unique blend of serious academics and island-style community spirit.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
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Academics & Majors
Manoa is a top-tier research university, particularly renowned for its programs in oceanography, astronomy, and Asian/Pacific studies, leveraging its unique geographic location. The university offers a high-quality education with a focus on hands-on learning and research opportunities, especially for undergraduates in STEM fields. While class sizes can be large for introductory courses, upper-level seminars provide close engagement with faculty.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Urban Honolulu
Student life in Honolulu is defined by the outdoors, with easy access to world-class surfing, hiking, and beaches just minutes from campus. The city offers a vibrant food scene, from local food trucks and poke to high-end restaurants, and a rich cultural calendar of festivals and events. Students often balance their studies with exploring the island's natural beauty and the urban amenities of Waikiki and downtown.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($57,624):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The Manoa campus is generally considered safe with a dedicated campus security presence, but like any urban area, students should be aware of their surroundings, especially at night. The surrounding Honolulu area has typical city crime, so students are advised to take standard urban safety precautions.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Unbeatable location with access to unique research opportunities in marine biology, volcanology, and astronomy.
- ✓ Strong in-state tuition value and a diverse, multicultural student environment.
- ✓ Growing research university with strong programs in business, engineering, and the social sciences.
Cons
- ✗ High cost of living in Honolulu, particularly for housing, which can be a financial strain.
- ✗ Distance from the mainland can make travel home expensive and logistically challenging for non-residents.
- ✗ Some students report that the campus can feel like a commuter school, with a less intense residential college town atmosphere.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
The University of Hawaii at Manoa is nationally recognized for its groundbreaking research in astronomy and oceanography, with observatories on Mauna Kea and a world-renowned marine biology program. It is also a leading institution for Pacific Island, Asian, and Hawaiian studies, leveraging its unique cultural and geographic position.
With an acceptance rate of 69.69%, the University of Hawaii at Manoa is considered moderately selective. While not as competitive as top-tier private universities, strong academic performance is still required. The average SAT score for admitted students is 1157, and a solid GPA and thoughtful application materials are important.
Campus life at Manoa blends academics with the relaxed, outdoor-focused lifestyle of Hawaii. Students can join a wide range of clubs, including those centered on Hawaiian culture, surfing, and hiking. The campus itself is a botanical garden, offering a beautiful setting for studying and socializing, though it has a distinct 'commuter' feel for some students who live off-campus.
For in-state students, the value is exceptional due to low tuition and strong post-graduation earnings. For out-of-state students, the investment is significant but can be worthwhile, especially for top programs like engineering or business, where the 10-year median earnings of $57,624 and the unique location provide a competitive advantage.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Public
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 16,123
- In-State Tuition $12,186
- Out-of-State $34,218
- Zip Code 96822
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
For in-state students, the University of Hawaii at Manoa offers an excellent return on investment with a low tuition rate and strong mid-career earnings. Out-of-state students face a significantly higher cost, but the 10-year median earnings of $57,624 suggest the degree is a solid investment, especially for high-demand fields like engineering and business. The average net price of $13,181, aided by a 24.5% Pell Grant rate, makes it accessible for many.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.