Kauaʻi CC Hoʻolei Scholarship Covers First-Year Tuition
Overview of the Hoʻolei Scholarship
What Is the Hoʻolei Scholarship?
The new Kauaʻi CC Hoʻolei Scholarship is an exciting opportunity for Hawaii’s graduating high school seniors seeking to continue their education close to home. Offered by Kauaʻi Community College, this scholarship provides eligible students with full tuition coverage for their first year—making college more accessible and affordable for local families.
Launch Purpose and Goals
The Hoʻolei Scholarship was established to support high school seniors from Kauaʻi and Niʻihau who may face financial barriers to attending college. By covering the cost of tuition after all other financial aid is applied, this last-dollar scholarship ensures students can focus on learning instead of worrying about finances. Its ultimate aim is to boost college enrollment and success for local youth by removing cost as an obstacle.
Eligibility Requirements for Students
Who Can Apply?
The Hoʻolei Scholarship is specifically designed for upcoming high school graduates who are ready to pursue an associate degree or certificate program at Kauaʻi CC. To qualify, applicants must:
- Be a high school senior graduating in Spring 2026
- Plan to enroll full-time at Kauaʻi Community College in Fall 2026
- Be a first-time college student
Geographic and Academic Criteria
Eligible students must also meet the following conditions:
- Reside on the islands of Kauaʻi or Niʻihau
- Submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
- Apply for other available financial aid prior to requesting the Hoʻolei Scholarship
This scholarship is geared toward helping students who are fully committed to starting their college journey at Kauaʻi CC and who meet the residency requirements for the program.
What the Scholarship Covers
Tuition Coverage Details
Once students have completed the financial aid process, the Hoʻolei Scholarship covers any remaining first-year tuition costs at Kauaʻi CC. This means if your financial aid doesn't fully cover tuition, the Hoʻolei Scholarship will pay the rest—making it an invaluable “last-dollar” award that ensures tuition is not an obstacle.
Additional Financial Support Opportunities
In addition to the Hoʻolei Scholarship, Kauaʻi CC encourages students to apply for:
- Federal and state grants via FAFSA
- Other local and institutional scholarships
Students who maximize available funding can potentially attend Kauaʻi Community College with little to no out-of-pocket tuition expense, along with opportunities for additional support such as books or living costs depending on other aid received.
How to Apply
Application Process Steps
Following a few key steps is essential for securing the Kauaʻi CC Hoʻolei Scholarship. Here’s how interested students can apply:
- Apply for admission to Kauaʻi Community College for Fall 2026
- Complete and submit the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)
- Apply for other financial aid sources recommended by Kauaʻi CC
- Connect with the Kauaʻi CC financial aid office to confirm eligibility
Students who meet eligibility will be automatically considered for the scholarship after completing the above steps.
FAFSA and Financial Aid Requirements
To remain eligible, students must:
- Submit the FAFSA by the priority deadline of March 1, 2026 (tentative)
- Ensure all financial aid documents are completed accurately and submitted on time
- Enroll as a full-time student beginning in Fall 2026
Late or incomplete FAFSA applications may jeopardize eligibility, so it’s crucial to apply early and follow all instructions provided by the financial aid office.
Important Dates for 2026 Entry
Deadlines to Remember
Mark your calendar with these important dates:
- Priority FAFSA Deadline: March 1, 2026 (check the college website to confirm)
- Kauaʻi CC Admission Period: Spring through Summer 2026
Enrollment and Award Timeline
The Hoʻolei Scholarship funds will be applied to student tuition beginning with the Fall 2026 semester. Early application and financial aid completion are strongly encouraged to ensure timely scholarship processing and class registration.
Why Choose Kauaʻi Community College
Academic Programs Eligible for Scholarship
The Hoʻolei Scholarship can be used for a variety of associate degree and certificate programs offered at Kauaʻi CC. These may include fields like:
- Liberal Arts
- Business
- Health Sciences
- Technology and Trades
Choose the program that aligns with your goals and take advantage of a full year of tuition support to get started on your path.
Campus and Community Support
Kauaʻi Community College offers a warm and respectful learning environment with strong student support systems in place. From academic advising to career planning and mentoring, students can access the tools needed to succeed academically and personally while remaining rooted in their island community.
Final Notes and Contact Information
Where to Get More Details
For the most up-to-date information about the Hoʻolei Scholarship and the application process, prospective students should:
- Visit the official Kauaʻi Community College financial aid website
- Contact the Kauaʻi CC Financial Aid Office directly with questions
- Attend local college information sessions or speak with high school counselors
Resources for Applicants
Before applying, be sure to gather all necessary documents including your FAFSA ID, financial records, and academic records. Getting organized early can dramatically ease the application process and improve your chances of receiving the scholarship.
Conclusion
The Kauaʻi CC Hoʻolei Scholarship is a golden opportunity for local high school seniors from Kauaʻi and Niʻihau to earn a college degree without paying tuition in their first year. By removing financial limitations, the program empowers students to stay close to home and focus on their future success. If you're eligible and planning to attend Kauaʻi CC in Fall 2026, act early—this one-year tuition coverage could be your first step toward a brighter future.