Classes at Hawaii Pacific University happen in downtown Honolulu, a few blocks from the harbour and the Aloha Tower Marketplace, where HPU runs student housing and a dining hall. Marine biology and oceanography students also use the Oceanic Institute on the island's east shore. International students make up a large share of the campus. Nursing, business and diplomacy are also popular.
Honolulu, Hawaii, United States
Official website: hpu.edu
Private university
Downtown Honolulu and Aloha Tower Marketplace
Oceanic Institute, MakapuΚ»u
$32,000 β $36,000
International students, undergraduate tuition
$17,000 β $23,000
Rent, food and local transport
Approximate figures for 2026-27, please verify. Fees change every year and vary by course, so check the latest amount on hpu.edu before you apply.
BS Marine Biology
Bachelors DegreeDuration
48 Months
Intake
Aug, Jan
Exam Score
IELTS: 6.0, TOEFL: 70
BS Nursing
Bachelors DegreeDuration
48 Months
Intake
Aug
Exam Score
IELTS: 6.5, TOEFL: 80
BS Business Administration
Bachelors DegreeDuration
48 Months
Intake
Aug, Jan
Exam Score
IELTS: 6.0, TOEFL: 70
MBA
Masters DegreeDuration
18 Months
Intake
Aug, Jan
Exam Score
IELTS: 6.5, TOEFL: 80
MA Diplomacy and Military Studies
Masters DegreeDuration
24 Months
Intake
Aug, Jan
Exam Score
IELTS: 6.5, TOEFL: 80
Marine science with access to the Oceanic Institute.
A downtown Honolulu campus with waterfront housing.
A high proportion of international students.
Marine science graduates work in research, conservation and aquaculture.
Nursing graduates join Hawaii hospitals and clinics.
Business graduates work in tourism, finance and Pacific trade.
Undergrad
Rolling
Postgrad
Rolling
Undergrad
Rolling
Postgrad
Rolling
HPU's buildings line Fort Street Mall in downtown Honolulu. Waikiki and Ala Moana beaches are a short bus ride away.
Honolulu is one of the most expensive US cities for rent and groceries. TheBus network is good, so most students manage without a car.
Form I-20 issued by Hawaii Pacific University
Proof of funds for one academic year
SEVIS I-901 fee payment receipt
Completed DS-160 online application
US embassy or consulate interview
Passport valid six months beyond stay
HPU reviews applications on a rolling basis. International students should apply at least three to four months before the semester to leave time for the I-20 and visa interview.
Most programmes start in fall (August) and spring (January).
You'll need an F-1 visa. Once you accept your offer and send proof of funding, Hawaii Pacific University issues the Form I-20. After that it's the SEVIS fee, the DS-160 form and an interview at a US embassy or consulate.
Marine biology, nursing, business and diplomacy are popular. Undergraduate entry is based on school grades with IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL 70. Nursing asks for more.
Yes. HPU gives merit scholarships to many international undergraduates, awarded at admission. Graduate students may also receive tuition awards.
