Graduate Scholarships

As the largest private university in Hawai‘i we believe it is our responsibility to find ways to give back to the community around us. At Hawai‘i Pacific University (HPU) one of our core values is Kuleana, and with this scholarship we hope to provide Hawai’i's working professionals the support they need to pursue their graduate education right here in Hawai’i, blending both quality academics and flexible programs that fit into your schedule. 

Merit Scholarship

Eligibility Criteria:

Hawai‘i Pacific University (HPU) provides a limited number of merit-based scholarships to newly admitted graduate students in select graduate programs each academic year. Interested students should express their desire for this opportunity on the HPU graduate application. The merit scholarship can be renewed for up to four consecutive semesters (depending on the length of the program), provided the student maintains good academic standing as a full-time student. The scholarship amount, which varies by degree program, covers only tuition; the student is responsible for fees, books, and living expenses. Newly admitted graduate students in select graduate programs are automatically considered for the merit scholarship upon the admission decision. No separate application is necessary. This scholarship cannot be combined with other HPU scholarships. Students who are recipients of other substantial funding are not eligible for this scholarship.

Graduate Assistantships

Eligibility Criteria:

Hawai‘i Pacific University (HPU) provides a select number of assistantships for graduate students who are newly admitted into certain graduate programs each academic year. Interested students should express their desire for this opportunity on the HPU graduate application. The assistantship stipulates that the recipient must maintain a full-time status (9+ credits) every semester and contribute 9 to 18 hours weekly (based on the award) to research, academic, or administrative tasks that are not part of the degree requirements. Graduate assistants have the opportunity to collaborate with faculty, staff, and scholars in their field, enhancing their growth as students. Assistantships may also be offered in various university departments and require an application through Handshake. Assistantships can be renewed for up to four consecutive semesters (depending on the length of the program), provided the student remains in good academic standing as a full-time student. The assistantship covers only tuition; the student is responsible for fees, books, and living expenses. The award cannot be combined with other HPU scholarships. Students who are recipients of other substantial funding are not eligible for the award.

Alumni Scholarship

Eligibility Criteria:

Any graduate of Hawai‘i Pacific University (HPU) who is newly enrolled for a minimum of nine credits per semester (full-time) in a select graduate program is eligible. The student must be pursuing an eligible degree program starting in the 2025-2026 academic year. The scholarship, which has a maximum value of $2,000 per semester, is applicable for up to four consecutive semesters (depending on the length of the program), and covers HPU tuition only. This scholarship cannot be combined with other HPU scholarships. Students who are recipients of other substantial funding are not eligible for this scholarship.