What should every freshman at your school know before they start?

When I was in high school I was not sure what I wanted to go to school for. The only careers that I kept thinking about were ones that would give me a large income. The best and only advice that I would give myself, is go for what would make me happy. Don?t think about the money, because in the end its about wanting to pursue a career in that field. You want to want to go to work everyday, not dread your everyday. Always think about what your good at and what will make you happy and it will all work out in the end.

Describe the students at your school.

Most of my classmates seem to be pretty relaxed and down to earth, but most of them seem to also be hard working individuals.

Describe how your school looks to someone who's never seen it.

Great place If you would like a slow lifestyle.

What do you consider the worst thing about your school? Why?

I think the only bad thing about the school is that some of the native Hawaiians haze you if you are white and from the main land; This can cause you to feel secluded and can affect what you do socially. They use Haole to describe you, which is a word used mainly in Hawaii to describe a white person., but depending on how someone says it, the word can be an insult.

What's unique about your campus?

The best thing about UH Manoa is the convenience and availability of a variety of resources and activities. The Bus (public transportation) can take you pretty much anywhere that you need to go. The beach is less than 1-2 miles away, and the school has many resources in which you can rent supplies or take courses (such as surfing lessons or scuba diving). They also provide on-campus activities such as concerts or movie nights. Additionally, I enjoy my classes a lot.

What do you brag about most when you tell your friends about your school?

I tell my friends that I live in Hawaii and Ilove it here because the weather and environment is beautiful. The people are diverse and really freindly/down to earth and making friends and getting an education here has been really fun and no matter what happens I do not regret my decision for coming to this school for even one second.

What's the one thing you wish someone had told you about freshman year?

Nothing much, I was born and raised on another island so I was not shocked by anything. This University and this life is what I know.

What's the most frustrating thing about your school?

I believe that the finances would be the most frustrating about my school. It is really hard to find money to pay for my school books, and to pay for my tuition and board.

What kind of person should not attend this school?

Someone who is both a very environmentally aware person and goal oriented. The conventional view is that education increases one's earning potential, so attending college is a ticket to a high-paying job; With University of Hawaii this holds true and the majority of people who graduate with the same major as me "Marine Biology" will obtain a job. So if you love the ocean and a great learning environment come to UNiversity of Hawaii.

What is the stereotype of students at your school? Is this stereotype accurate?

I think the stereotype of students at my school is that they are too relaxed and not as worried about their college career as other students. I believe this is due to the island atmosphere and a sense of happiness and relaxation that pervades everything in Hawaii. I do not believe this is accurate however. I myself am a very serious student and I know many others who are. UH Manoa proves that you can excel at school and still enjoy yourself as well.

Describe your favorite campus traditions.

Our school is best known for its Marine Science programs (Marine Biology, Environmental sciences, and Oceanography). It is also a great school as far as the teacher per student ratio goes .

Here's your chance: Say anything about your college!

The atmosphere at UH is relaxed, that was the draw for me. I didn't have an opportuntity to see a lot of other campuses before applying to University of Hawaii, but visited the campus while on vacation my junior year and fell in love with the beauty of the island. There aren't many schools in the United States you can say that about. I grew up in Los Angeles and really like being away from the fast pace of the big city. I spend a lot of my time studying down on Waikiki Beach, need I say more.

What are the most popular student activities/groups?

I think the most popular student activities are clubs based on interests. I'm involved with the business clubs in the business school. Most students in the business school are involved in one of the business clubs. The athletic events are popular, especially football and volleyball. There's also a lot of school-sponsored events such as concerts and performances. Off-campus, the school is only a 15-20minute bus ride to some of the major shopping centers of the island. This is also near the downtown region where many of the clubs and night life can be found.

What kind of person should attend this school?

This is a great school for someone that wants to live in a beautiful place as long as you realize you won't get to surf everyday all day if you want to graduate. It's really a good idea to go here if you're interested in Asian studies - be it in business, languages, politicals - this school has lots of strong ties to Asian countries like Japan, China, Korea, etc..

What are the academics like at your school?

For entry-level courses at the 100-level there is less interactions since the classes tend to be large. The course-work is general and not extremely challenging. However, the upper-division courses tend to be a little bit smaller, allowing for better interactions with professors. The professors are generally open-minded and available to students. The business school is a lot more organized and geared towards application of course work. I think their approach is to help students prepare for the future. Although there are some classes that are more book-based.

What is your overall opinion of this school?

Overall, UH Manoa is pretty well-established as one of the main universities available in Hawaii. I think the best thing about it is the various opportunities that are provided. However, one of our biggest flaws is the size of enrollment in classes makes it difficult for students to get a seat in the class they desire. Some of the problems is the continuing tuition hikes that the school has been proposing that many students are protesting. This can be seen as a potential deterrent to other students.

What are your classes like?

Some are interesting. Usually the teacher makes it interesting...

What's the Greek scene like?

The Greek scene is very limited. I do know that there some sororities and fraternities on campus, but not enough to be considered a major Greek presence. There are very few, if any Greek houses, and I'm unaware of what the existing sororities' and fraternities' activities entail.

Tell us about the sports scene on campus.

UH Football is pretty popular, but the stadium where we play our home games isn't close to campus, so student presence at home games is still pretty slim. The stadium for indoor sports is located on campus, so the indoor sports (volleyball, basketball) are well attended. Men's and Women's volleyball seem to be the most popular sports on campus, and our teams are usually ranked in the top 20 for NCAA div. I. The baseball and softball stadiums are also located on campus, and those sports seem to be popular as well. There are also non-competitive sports clubs and events on campus, notably ultimate frisbee, touch/flag football, co-ed soccer, singles/doubles tennis, and table tennis. The games room on campus also hosts WiiSports or billiards tournaments every now and then.

When you step off campus what do you see?

When I get away from campus I try to get as far away as possible. Honolulu is an awesome place to live and hang out, but after awhile you really want a nice beach day away from the sunscreen smelling tourists, so I always try to go to a different side of the island (preferably North Shore) just to escape. Another great idea is to have your local friends show you where all the wonderful hiking spots are. :)

University of Hawaii at Manoa

About University of Hawaii at Manoa

Founded in 1907, University of Hawaii at Manoa. is a Public college. Located in Hawaii, which is a city setting in Hawaii, the campus itself is Urban. The campus is home to 13,132 full time undergraduate students, and 4,924 full time graduate students.

The University of Hawaii at Manoa Academic calendar runs on a Semester basis. In the school year the student to faculty ratio was 13:1. There are 1022 full time instructional teachers. Degrees awarded at University of Hawaii at Manoa include: Bachelor's Degree, Masters Degree, Post-master's certificate, Doctor's degree.

Quick Facts

Acceptance Rate	84%
Application Deadline
Application Fee	70
SAT Range	970-1190
ACT Range	20-26

Admissions at UH-MANOA are considered Less Selective, with ,51% of all applicants being admitted.

In the school year, of the students who applied to the school, only 27 of those who were admitted eventually ended up enrolling.

91% of incoming freshmen are in the top half of their high school class. 59% were in the top quarter, and 27% were in the top tenth. You can apply online.

STUDENT LIFE Reviews

We asked, and students answered these important questions about student life at University of Hawaii at Manoa.

“We”re apathetic”

37%

“We know about current events and vote”

48%

“We participate and encourage others to get involved”

“There”s nothing we won”t protest”

“We save it for the classroom”

33%

“Sometimes, but not often”

49%

“There”s usually intelligent conversation to be found”

16%

“All the time, including weekends”

“I”m always terrified”

11%

“I only go out in groups”

52%

“I usually let someone know where I”m going”

37%

“I feel extremely safe”

11%

“We don”t play sports”

“We play recreationally”

41%

“We bought the gear”

48%

“We live for the big game”

15%

“It”s not really our thing”

14%

“Occasinally we gallery crawl”

48%

“There are a variety of opportunities”

23%

“We”re a very artistic group”

“Haven”t met them”

“Available in class”

59%

“They keep regular office hours”

27%

“They”re always available”

21%

“No greek life, but other groups to join”

65%

“There is some involvement, but not a lot”

14%

“Plenty of people join a sorority or fraternity”

“It”s everything. If you”re not greek, you”re a geek”

“We”re not into drinking at all”

25%

“Maybe a little, but it”s not a big thing”

53%

“We only party on weekends”

19%

“There”s some drinking happening every night”

“Never, we”re here to learn”

56%

“There might be people who do”

30%

“People are known to partake on weekends”

“There”s a huge drug scene”

Write a review, Enter to win $1,000 Scholarship

How would you rate on-campus housing?

151 Students rated on-campus housing 3 stars. 7 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate off-campus housing?

139 Students rated off-campus housing 2.9 stars. 0 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate campus food?

183 Students rated campus food 3.4 stars. 20 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate campus facilities?

188 Students rated campus facilities 3.4 stars. 16 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate class size?

188 Students rated class size 3.7 stars. 20 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate school activities?

188 Students rated school activities 3.7 stars. 27 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate local services?

188 Students rated local services 3.9 stars. 36 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate academics?

190 Students rated academics 3.7 stars. 24 % gave the school a 5.0.

University of Hawaii at Manoa REVIEWS

What's your overall opinion of University of Hawaii at Manoa?

88 Students rated University of Hawaii at Manoa

Kamaile - 08/15/2024

The University of Hawai’i at Mānoa is an established university that provides opportunities and a somewhat solid foundation for students. The student body is overall supportive and respectful of each other, and sports are definitely a big deal not only with the students but also with the community. Once you understand the history and actually live the culture of Hawai’i then you have a greater appreciation of the university. It is noticeable though that the current dorms are very outdated and in need of repairs for safety reasons. More financial aid for students would be appreciated. Some of the professors have been noted to be very opinionated and at times hard to get to, but that doesn’t discount the countless other respectable professors and staff.

Yasmin - 06/27/2024

In my opinion, the University of Hawaii at Manoa is a solid institution. The academic standards are high, although it's evident that a significant portion of the funding is directed towards the life sciences department, potentially to the detriment of other departments like mathematics or English. Overall, the professors are approachable and supportive, but I found the chemistry department lacking in effective teaching. Many students seemed confused throughout the courses, leading to consistently low averages. On a positive note, the atmosphere at the university is very welcoming, and there is a wealth of activities and opportunities to explore in the surrounding area.

Harmoni - 05/15/2024

The University of Hawaii Mānoa offers students the opportunity to learn in a diverse and inclusive environment right at the heart of the Pacific. Life on Oahu allows students to learn both inside and outside the classroom. The professors are always welcoming and the campus is classified as an arboretum.

Rain - 02/28/2024

The University of Hawaii at Manoa holds a special place in my heart, reflecting the essence of academic and cultural diversity. The campus's tropical surroundings create a unique and inspiring backdrop for learning, fostering a positive and inclusive atmosphere. What truly sets UH Manoa apart is its commitment to excellence in research and education. The faculty members are not only experts in their fields but also passionate mentors, dedicated to nurturing the intellectual growth of their students. The university's emphasis on cultural exchange and diversity enriches the overall educational experience, offering a global perspective that extends beyond the classroom. Moreover, the spirit of aloha is palpable throughout the campus, creating a warm and welcoming environment. The University of Hawaii at Manoa stands as a beacon of educational quality, where students are not just acquiring knowledge but also shaping a holistic understanding of the world and their place in it.

University of Hawaii at Manoa FAQS

What is the Acceptance Rate at University of Hawaii at Manoa?

The fall 2020 acceptance rate for University of Hawaii at Manoa is 84%. That means, out of _____ applications received in 2020 , _____ students were offered admission. The number of males who applied was _____ vs the number of females which was _____.
What should every freshman at your school know before they start?

When I was in high school I was not sure what I wanted to go to school for. The only careers that I kept thinking about were ones that would give me a large income. The best and only advice that I would give myself, is go for what would make me happy. Don?t think about the money, because in the end its about wanting to pursue a career in that field. You want to want to go to work everyday, not dread your everyday. Always think about what your good at and what will make you happy and it will all work out in the end.
Read all 174 answers
Describe the students at your school.

Most of my classmates seem to be pretty relaxed and down to earth, but most of them seem to also be hard working individuals.
Read all 45 answers
Describe how your school looks to someone who's never seen it.

Great place If you would like a slow lifestyle.
Read all 40 answers
What do you consider the worst thing about your school? Why?

I think the only bad thing about the school is that some of the native Hawaiians haze you if you are white and from the main land; This can cause you to feel secluded and can affect what you do socially. They use Haole to describe you, which is a word used mainly in Hawaii to describe a white person., but depending on how someone says it, the word can be an insult.
Read all 36 answers
What's unique about your campus?

The best thing about UH Manoa is the convenience and availability of a variety of resources and activities. The Bus (public transportation) can take you pretty much anywhere that you need to go. The beach is less than 1-2 miles away, and the school has many resources in which you can rent supplies or take courses (such as surfing lessons or scuba diving). They also provide on-campus activities such as concerts or movie nights. Additionally, I enjoy my classes a lot.
Read all 32 answers
What do you brag about most when you tell your friends about your school?

I tell my friends that I live in Hawaii and Ilove it here because the weather and environment is beautiful. The people are diverse and really freindly/down to earth and making friends and getting an education here has been really fun and no matter what happens I do not regret my decision for coming to this school for even one second.
Read all 30 answers
What's the one thing you wish someone had told you about freshman year?

Nothing much, I was born and raised on another island so I was not shocked by anything. This University and this life is what I know.
Read all 28 answers
What's the most frustrating thing about your school?

I believe that the finances would be the most frustrating about my school. It is really hard to find money to pay for my school books, and to pay for my tuition and board.
Read all 27 answers
What kind of person should not attend this school?

Someone who is both a very environmentally aware person and goal oriented. The conventional view is that education increases one's earning potential, so attending college is a ticket to a high-paying job; With University of Hawaii this holds true and the majority of people who graduate with the same major as me "Marine Biology" will obtain a job. So if you love the ocean and a great learning environment come to UNiversity of Hawaii.
Read all 24 answers
What is the stereotype of students at your school? Is this stereotype accurate?

I think the stereotype of students at my school is that they are too relaxed and not as worried about their college career as other students. I believe this is due to the island atmosphere and a sense of happiness and relaxation that pervades everything in Hawaii. I do not believe this is accurate however. I myself am a very serious student and I know many others who are. UH Manoa proves that you can excel at school and still enjoy yourself as well.
Read all 23 answers
Describe your favorite campus traditions.

Our school is best known for its Marine Science programs (Marine Biology, Environmental sciences, and Oceanography). It is also a great school as far as the teacher per student ratio goes .
Read all 21 answers
Here's your chance: Say anything about your college!

The atmosphere at UH is relaxed, that was the draw for me. I didn't have an opportuntity to see a lot of other campuses before applying to University of Hawaii, but visited the campus while on vacation my junior year and fell in love with the beauty of the island. There aren't many schools in the United States you can say that about. I grew up in Los Angeles and really like being away from the fast pace of the big city. I spend a lot of my time studying down on Waikiki Beach, need I say more.
Read all 21 answers
What are the most popular student activities/groups?

I think the most popular student activities are clubs based on interests. I'm involved with the business clubs in the business school. Most students in the business school are involved in one of the business clubs. The athletic events are popular, especially football and volleyball. There's also a lot of school-sponsored events such as concerts and performances. Off-campus, the school is only a 15-20minute bus ride to some of the major shopping centers of the island. This is also near the downtown region where many of the clubs and night life can be found.
Read all 18 answers
What kind of person should attend this school?

This is a great school for someone that wants to live in a beautiful place as long as you realize you won't get to surf everyday all day if you want to graduate. It's really a good idea to go here if you're interested in Asian studies - be it in business, languages, politicals - this school has lots of strong ties to Asian countries like Japan, China, Korea, etc..
Read all 17 answers
What are the academics like at your school?

For entry-level courses at the 100-level there is less interactions since the classes tend to be large. The course-work is general and not extremely challenging. However, the upper-division courses tend to be a little bit smaller, allowing for better interactions with professors. The professors are generally open-minded and available to students. The business school is a lot more organized and geared towards application of course work. I think their approach is to help students prepare for the future. Although there are some classes that are more book-based.
Read all 15 answers
What is your overall opinion of this school?

Overall, UH Manoa is pretty well-established as one of the main universities available in Hawaii. I think the best thing about it is the various opportunities that are provided. However, one of our biggest flaws is the size of enrollment in classes makes it difficult for students to get a seat in the class they desire. Some of the problems is the continuing tuition hikes that the school has been proposing that many students are protesting. This can be seen as a potential deterrent to other students.
Read all 15 answers
What are your classes like?

Some are interesting. Usually the teacher makes it interesting...
Read all 6 answers
What's the Greek scene like?

The Greek scene is very limited. I do know that there some sororities and fraternities on campus, but not enough to be considered a major Greek presence. There are very few, if any Greek houses, and I'm unaware of what the existing sororities' and fraternities' activities entail.
Read all 4 answers
Tell us about the sports scene on campus.

UH Football is pretty popular, but the stadium where we play our home games isn't close to campus, so student presence at home games is still pretty slim. The stadium for indoor sports is located on campus, so the indoor sports (volleyball, basketball) are well attended. Men's and Women's volleyball seem to be the most popular sports on campus, and our teams are usually ranked in the top 20 for NCAA div. I. The baseball and softball stadiums are also located on campus, and those sports seem to be popular as well. There are also non-competitive sports clubs and events on campus, notably ultimate frisbee, touch/flag football, co-ed soccer, singles/doubles tennis, and table tennis. The games room on campus also hosts WiiSports or billiards tournaments every now and then.
Read all 4 answers
When you step off campus what do you see?

When I get away from campus I try to get as far away as possible. Honolulu is an awesome place to live and hang out, but after awhile you really want a nice beach day away from the sunscreen smelling tourists, so I always try to go to a different side of the island (preferably North Shore) just to escape. Another great idea is to have your local friends show you where all the wonderful hiking spots are. :)
Read all 4 answers

Student Body

Students

56%

female

44%

male

13,132

Total Undergrad Enrollment

4,924

Total Grad Students

31%

Out-Of-State

66%

In-State

International

Organizations

150

Student Organizations

Fraternities

Sororities

Housing

Yes

On-Campus Housing

18%

of students living on campus

Student Diversity

% American Indian/Alaskan Native

N/A

% Asian/Pacific Islander

39%

% Black or African-American

% Hispanic/Latino

11%

% White or Caucasian

17%

TUITION & AID

All students must apply yearly for financial aid. This process starts with the FAFSA. Though financial aid deadlines vary by school, it is a good idea to apply as soon as possible. For the upcoming school year, you can apply as early as October 1 for the FAFSA. Additional school aid will be dependent on the FAFSA results.

72% of students attending University of Hawaii at Manoa receive some sort of financial aid. 28% were awarded federal grants. While 36% received federal loans. Many students do also need to apply for additional private student loans.

$33,764

Tuition and fees(Out of state)

$952

Books and Supplies

$13,030

Room and Board

47,746

Total On Campus

Family Income

Cost

$0 - $30K

$9,525

$30 - $48K

$11,735

$48 - $75K

$14,037

$75 - $110K

$16,568

$110K & UP

$20,274

We use student reviews and the most current publicly available data on our school pages. As such, we don't typically remove or edit college information. Sources for school statistics and data include the U.S. Department of Education's National Center for Education Statistics and the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System. Portions of college data include copyrighted material, which is reproduced on this website by permission of Wintergreen Orchard House, a division of Carnegie Communications. © 2009-2016 by Wintergreen Orchard House. All rights reserved.

University of Hawaii at Manoa

Honolulu HI , 96822-2217

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