Kaua‘i CC Hoʻolei Scholarship for High School Seniors
Overview of the Hoʻolei Scholarship
Purpose and Initiative Background
Kauaʻi Community College (Kauaʻi CC) has introduced an exceptional opportunity for local students with the launch of the Hoʻolei Scholarship. This initiative aims to ease the financial burden of pursuing higher education by covering the first year of tuition for eligible high school seniors from Kauaʻi. Designed to support first-generation college students and reduce barriers to enrollment, this scholarship helps ensure that every motivated student can start their college journey strong.
Partner Institutions and Support
As part of the University of Hawaiʻi system, Kauaʻi CC is advancing college access through partnerships with state and federal financial aid programs. The Hoʻolei Scholarship is a gap-filling award, stepping in after all other financial options are applied, making college more affordable and attainable for Hawaiian students.
Eligibility Requirements
High School and Residency Criteria
To qualify for the Hoʻolei Scholarship at Kauaʻi CC, students must meet the following conditions:
- Be a graduating senior from a high school on the island of Kauaʻi
- Plan to enroll as first-time college students at Kauaʻi Community College
- Hold legal residency in the state of Hawaiʻi
Financial Aid and Academic Requirements
This scholarship is financial need-based and requires:
- Completion of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
- Acceptance of all eligible financial aid awarded, such as federal or state grants
- Enrollment in credit-bearing, college-level coursework at Kauaʻi CC
Scholarship Coverage and What’s Included
Tuition Details
The Hoʻolei Scholarship fully covers the cost of first-year tuition at Kauaʻi Community College. Unlike many scholarships that offer partial support or have limited disbursements, this award is tailored to provide comprehensive financial relief during a student's pivotal first year.
Financial Aid Integration
Rather than functioning as a standalone award, the Hoʻolei Scholarship works in tandem with FAFSA-based aids. Students are encouraged to first accept financial aid options such as:
After leveraging these, the Hoʻolei Scholarship covers any remaining tuition balance, potentially ensuring a completely tuition-free first year.
How to Apply for the Scholarship
Steps for College Admission
There is no separate application required for the Hoʻolei Scholarship. Eligible students simply need to:
- Apply for admission to Kauaʻi Community College as a first-time college student
- Submit all required documents to complete the admission process
FAFSA Submission and Award Acceptance
The next critical step is applying for financial aid:
- Complete the FAFSA online as early as possible during the senior year of high school
- List Kauaʻi Community College as a receiving institution
- Once awarded, review and accept all forms of available aid
Once the college confirms all aid has been applied to the student’s account, any remaining tuition fees for the first year will be covered by the Hoʻolei Scholarship automatically.
Important Considerations and Timelines
When to Apply
While specific deadlines are not stated, early applications are crucial. Students should start the FAFSA and college admission process in the fall of their senior year. The earlier these steps are completed, the better the chance of receiving full aid coverage.
Staying Eligible
To maintain eligibility throughout the process:
- Ensure enrollment in approved college-level classes
- Avoid remedial-only course selections
- Keep track of all financial aid forms and deadlines
- Maintain communication with the Kauaʻi CC financial aid office
Benefits of Attending Kaua‘i Community College
Academic Programs
Kauaʻi CC offers a wide selection of academic and technical programs geared toward workforce readiness and university transfer. From liberal arts to culinary and automotive technology, students can explore a range of pathways suited to their career goals.
Student Support and Community Impact
Beyond academics, Kauaʻi CC is known for its welcoming campus culture and strong student support services. Tutoring, mentorship, and career counseling all contribute to a successful first-year experience. For many local students, attending Kauaʻi CC nurtures both personal and academic growth within a familiar island community.
Final Thoughts for Prospective Applicants
The Hoʻolei Scholarship offers a meaningful opportunity for graduating high school seniors on Kauaʻi to begin their college education without worrying about first-year tuition costs. By removing financial obstacles, Kauaʻi Community College is helping students take confident steps into higher education and build a better future.
If you are a high school senior in Kauaʻi looking to start college locally, this scholarship could be your gateway. Act early—apply for admission, complete your FAFSA, and let the Hoʻolei Scholarship support your first big academic leap.