University of Hawaii at Hilo Financial Aid

I'm considering applying to the University of Hawaii at Hilo, but I'm concerned about the cost. What types of financial aid packages has the school offered in the past, and is there anything I should keep in mind when applying for aid?

The University of Hawaii at Hilo offers several forms of financial aid to help students cover the cost of their education. These include federal aid, state aid, institutional aid, and scholarships. When applying for financial aid at UH Hilo, ensure that you complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to become eligible for federal aid, state aid, and institutional financial aid offered by the university.

Federal Aid: This includes grants such as the Pell Grant and Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG), as well as federal loans and work-study opportunities. Your eligibility for these programs will be determined based on your FAFSA results.

State Aid: Hawaii residents may be eligible for state-funded financial aid programs, such as the Hawaii State Incentive Grant, which is awarded based on financial need.

Institutional Aid: UH Hilo offers need-based and merit-based aid in the form of scholarships, grants, and tuition waivers. In the past, UH Hilo has provided a variety of scholarships, such as the Chancellor Scholarship, which covers full tuition for four years for outstanding students.

Scholarships: There are also departmental and external scholarships available. To find and apply for scholarship opportunities, check the UH Hilo Financial Aid Office website and external scholarship search engines. Be mindful of deadlines and application requirements.

When applying for financial aid at UH Hilo, keep the following in mind:

1. Complete your FAFSA as soon as possible after October 1st, as some funds are awarded on a first-come, first-serve basis.

2. Watch for priority deadlines, as meeting them will increase your chances of receiving aid.

3. Research and apply for scholarships, both within and beyond UH Hilo, that match your personal, academic, or financial situation.

4. If you're an out-of-state student, consider the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) program, which allows residents of participating states to attend UH Hilo at a reduced tuition rate.

5. Stay in communication with the financial aid office, as they can help you navigate the process and answer any questions you have.

Remember that the FAFSA is your primary tool in securing financial aid, so submit it as soon as you can and thoroughly research scholarships, grants, and other aid opportunities offered by UH Hilo and external organizations.