University of Hawaii at Hilo

School Overview

University of Hawaii at Hilo is located in Hilo, HI, 96720. The university is ranked #329 among National Universities by U.S. News & World Report. It offers programs at the bachelor’s degree level, serving students with a range of academic interests and career aspirations.

With an acceptance rate of 60%, University of Hawaii at Hilo offers a realistic pathway for students who have maintained a consistent academic record throughout high school. Successful applicants typically present SAT scores of 945-1175 and ACT scores of 15-22. The average high school GPA among enrolled freshmen is 3.5.

With just 2,292 undergraduates, University of Hawaii at Hilo provides an intimate academic setting where small class sizes and close faculty mentorship are central to the student experience. The student-to-faculty ratio is 12:01, meaning professors are accessible for office hours, research mentorship, and one-on-one guidance. Approximately 64% of classes have fewer than 20 students, fostering the kind of seminar-style discussion and hands-on collaboration that deepens real understanding. The institution achieves a four-year graduation rate of 30%, a strong indicator that students receive the support they need to finish on time and move into their careers or further study.

The most popular fields of study at University of Hawaii at Hilo include Health Professions and Related Programs (14% of students, median early-career salary: $141,551), Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services (14% of students, median early-career salary: $47,959), and Biological and Biomedical Sciences (13% of students, median early-career salary: $61,366). These enrollment patterns reflect the institution's strengths and the career interests of its student body, giving prospective students a clear sense of the academic culture and post-graduation opportunities available here.

However, the average net price after financial aid is $13,444, which is the amount most aided students actually pay — often considerably less than the sticker price. For families evaluating the return on a college investment, these figures — combined with University of Hawaii at Hilo's academic reputation and graduate outcomes — provide a concrete basis for comparison.

Choosing a college is one of the most significant decisions a student and family will make. University of Hawaii at Hilo combines nationally recognized academic quality, a favorable student-to-faculty ratio, a diverse range of popular programs to create an environment where students can grow intellectually, build professional skills, and form lasting connections. We encourage prospective students to explore the detailed data on this page to determine whether University of Hawaii at Hilo is the right fit for their academic and personal goals.