International Students - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I defer my admission if I’m unable to attend this semester?
- If admitted for Fall, you may defer to Spring within the same academic year. However, deferring from Spring to the next Fall semester requires a new application.
- When does the academic year/semester start?
- International students can enroll in the 16-week Fall or Spring semesters. For specific start dates, view the academic calendar here.
- Can I enroll in the 8-week term?
- No, international students cannot enroll in the 8A/8B session. They must be enrolled in at least 12 credits (undergraduate) or 9 credits (graduate) during the 16-week Fall and Spring semesters.
- What type of visa do I need and how do I apply?
- Submit the Statement of Financial Sponsorship (SFS) form and supporting financial documents to request the Form I-20. After receiving your Form I-20, you apply for your F-1 student visa at U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Learn more about the I-20 application process here.
- What should I do when I arrive in Honolulu?
- International students are required to complete immigration reporting in person at the Office of International Students & Scholars (OISS) to confirm their arrival in the U.S. and activate their F-1/J-1 SEVIS immigration records. Find more info here.
- Can I work on campus while studying?
- Yes, you can work on-campus if you maintain F-1/J-1 status. For more information on work regulations, visit this page. Use the HPU Handshake site to search job opportunities.
- Does HPU offer on-campus housing?
- Yes, HPU provides Å·ÃÀAƬ housing. Information about housing options and meal rates is available here.
- How do I apply for housing?
- A step-by-step application guide for on-campus housing can be found here.
- Where can I find off-campus living options?
- Tips and information on finding off-campus housing are available here.
- What health requirements do I need to meet before arriving in Honolulu?
- Complete Forms D and Form E with the help of your medical provider and submit them via Med+Proctor. Detailed instructions are provided here.
- Is health insurance coverage required?
- Yes, international students must have health insurance. If you have coverage, complete the International Student Health Insurance Waiver by the deadline. Find out what the requirements are here.
- Does HPU have an on-campus clinic?
- Yes, the Health Services Fee covers unlimited visits to the SP Health Clinic. For details on services and location, visit this page.
- How much does it cost?
- Tuition and mandatory student fees are listed here. Additional costs include housing, living expenses, visa, flights, and books.
- How do I pay tuition?
- International students are recommended to use Flywire for tuition payments. For more details, visit this page.
- Are there scholarships or financial aid available for international students?
- Yes, HPU offers various scholarships, including merit-based, talent, and athletic scholarships. For details and to apply, visit this page or contact international@hpu.edu.
- Does HPU offer an airport shuttle?
- Yes, HPU has partnered with VIP Trans to provide transportation from Honolulu International Airport to campus. For reservations and pricing, please click on the
- How do I get around HPU's campuses?
- Pioneer Plaza is an 8-10 minute walk from the Aloha Tower Marketplace and a 10-15 minute walk from Waterfront Plaza.
- How do I get around the island?
- Public transportation on TheBus is a popular option. Full-time registered students (excluding military campus students) receive a semester UPASS with their Transportation Fee.
- When is orientation?
- Orientation typically takes place on the Friday and Saturday of the week before classes begin. Check the academic calendar for specific dates. For more details about New Student Orientation, click here.
- Am I required to attend?
- Yes, all new full-time undergraduate first-year, transfer, and visiting/exchange students are required to attend, either in the fall or spring, depending on your start term.
- How much does it cost to attend?
- All new full-time undergraduate students are charged a one-time New Student Orientation fee of $200.