Grants

Grants are a form of aid that does not need to be repaid. Eligibility is determined based upon financial need. The following are the types of grant aid programs that are offered at University of Hawaii – West Oahu.

Academic Competitiveness Grant
A federal grant for students with exceptional financial need (eligible for a Federal Pell Grant) and graduated from high school after January 2005. Must have completed a "rigorous secondary school program," as designated by the state in which the student resided when completing the program. Eligible recipients will receive awards of up to $750 for the first academic year of study and up to $1,300 for the second academic year of study from this federally-funded gift program. Full-time enrollment (12 credits or higher) required.

Federal Pell Grant
A federal grant for students with exceptional financial need and have not earned their first baccalaureate degree. To qualify for a Pell Grant, you must be enrolled at least half-time. In some cases, less than half-time students may qualify. Award amounts, based on a student's EFC, are determined by the U.S. Department of Education based on congressional funding.

Federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grant
A federal grant for students with exceptional financial need (eligible fot a Federal Pell Grant) and must be enrolled at least half-time (6 credits). Award amount varies.

Hawaii Student Incentive Grant
A federal grant program with matching state funds. Must be a resident of Hawaii with exceptional financial need (eligible for a Federal Pell Grant) and enrolled at least half-time. This award is also known as the Leveraging Educational Assistance Partnership Program (LEAP). Award amount varies.

University of Hawaii Opportunity Grant
A university grant program for students with financial need intended to protect the access of low-income students to higher education. To be eligible for an Opportunity Grant, an individual must: Demonstrated financial need (completion of FAFSA required); be a resident of Hawaii; classified undergraduate student; enrolled at least half-time (6 credits); continuing students must be making satisfactory academic progress, per federal guidelines. Award amount varies.