Hawaii Community College & University of Hawaii, Hilo English Language Pathway Program

Language Pathway
Globally Recognized
Delivery Method:
In-Person
Duration:
Multi Term, Single Term

About the Program

In its short history the University of Hawaii, Hilo has grown from humble beginnings as a vocational college to become an internationally respected university specializing in marine science, volcanology, astronomy, and Hawaiian studies. With an average temperature of 84-degrees, an island backdrop as close to paradise as they come, and blue waters all around, your study abroad experience will stay with you for the rest of your life.

Live and study in English to take your language skills to the next level

Enjoy a picnic, go surfing, relax on the beach, and take a scenic walk

Volunteer at Mauna Kea for the stars, astronomy, Native Hawaiian history

Tutors work with you—often one-on-one—tailoring support to your needs

Program Advisor

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Student Counselor SAFFY

Your Student Counselor is your study abroad ambassador and supporter. They join your application journey when you’ve confirmed you’re interested in studying abroad. At this point, they guide you through each stage of the application, notify you of the documents you need, let you know when your admission results are in, and walk you through the next steps, including class enrollment and organizing pre-arrival tests. 

Schedule a Consultation

At a Glance

Language of Instruction:
English
Language Prerequisite Level:
Intermediate
GPA Requirements:
3.00
Academic Level:
Undergraduate
Academic Strengths:
Sociology, Biological & Physical Sciences, Business, Economics & Finance, Computer Science, Music, Film & Performing Arts
Housing:
On-campus apartment
Visa Required:
Maybe

Stay Healthy & Safe While You Study Abroad

WHAT STUDENTS SAY

Yui Sakakibara

The IEP (Language School) I attend is a small class, and most of the students get along well with each other. We all work hard to support each other and improve every day.

University of Hawaii, Hilo SAF Alumni

University of Hawaii Hilo Content 13

About the University

University of Hawaii at Hilo

A small university of a few thousand students, University of Hawaii at Hilo (UHH) has grown from humble beginnings as a vocational college to an internationally respected university specializing in marine science, volcanology, astronomy, and Hawaiian studies. 

Hilo is the largest of Hawaii’s islands and is home to one of the most unique cultures in the world. The island's average temperature of 84 degrees makes study and life here a truly unforgettable experience.

Learn more at University of Hawaii at Hilo's official website.

Academics

Hawaii Community College's Academic Approach

With 18 hours a week of English instruction in small classes, this intensive program allows you to quickly develop your language skills to better prepare you for confident communication in a global society.

Courses

You register online before you arrive on campus. Progression from language courses to the academic program requires you complete all advanced level courses at ELI. 

Classroom Hours

The SAF program fee tuition rate covers18 hours of language instruction per week, from Tuesday to Friday.

Language Levels

HCC is a four-level program which take you from high beginning to high intermediate.

Get To Know Our Application Process

From academics to visa requirements, our structured process helps you choose the right program and university for your goals. Complete a strong application, and prepare for success abroad.

Personalize Your Study Abroad Plan With Your SAF Counselor

Each student has unique academic goals for a study abroad experience. As you think about studying abroad, your SAF Counselor will help you plan for success and support you every step of the way.

Application Requirements

When applying to study abroad, you must meet the entry requirements set by the host university—and SAF is here to set you up for success.

The requirements outlined in this section include the language proficiency scores you may need to demonstrate your language skills, a guide to the GPA range and other academic prerequisites required by your host university, and a list of documentation and other application materials you will need to finalize your application. You may need to supply additional information throughout the process, and you will be alerted through your emails and SAF Student Portal if this is the case for you.
  • Language Proficiency
  • Academics & GPA
  • Application Documents & Materials

Language Test Score Requirements
*A progression from language to academic requires completion of all advanced level courses at ELI.

To prove your language proficiency for UHH, you can also use any of the following:

  • IELTS: 5.5
  • TOEFL iBT: 61
  • TOEFL PBT: 500
  • Duolingo: 90

 

 

 

Program Dates

When studying abroad, you will want to consider the time of year and how long you are away. Most programs follow the host university's academic calendar.

The dates shown below are general estimates, and as you get closer to the start of the term, you will get more detailed information from SAF. If you have any questions, your Student Counsellor and Program Specialist are always here to support you and point you to the correct information.

Fall 2024 Language Pathway + Spring 2025 Academic

Program dates:
Late August - Mid May
Application Deadline:
Fees Starting From:
$
33,400

Spring 2025 Language Pathway + Summer 2025 Language Pathway + Fall 2025 Academic

Program dates:
Late March - Mid December
Application Deadline:
Fees Starting From:
$
31,550

Housing Information

On-campus apartment

SAF housing for this program is an on-campus residence with roommates.

*Housing is subject to availability. For specific questions regarding housing please contact SAF.

About Hilo

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Why Hilo

On the largest of Hawaii’s astonishing islands, Hilo has an extraordinarily interesting culture, with adventures and experiences around every corner. Its ethnically diverse locals are genuinely kind and welcoming—as is the average temperature of 84 degrees. Aside from its old-town vibe and incredible collection of dramatic waterfalls, lush mountainsides, and stunning beaches, Hilo is a truly unforgettable place to live and study.

Learn more about Hilo

The Student Experience

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Orientation

On Arrival

Your SAF pre-departure process will arm you with all the information you need for a smooth arrival to your new campus, city, and country.

To Housing

Your SAF program will include a safe transfer from your arrival airport to your new study abroad housing. We'll even provide you with top tips to make the most of your new city!

Home Sweet Home

Your SAF Program Specialist will coordinate with you to ensure you have arrived safely and settled into your new secure housing.

Keeping You Safe

As you settle in, you will learn about the SAF emergency alert system, our 24/7 phone support, and any safety concerns relevant to you.

Get Social

Your new university and SAF will arrange social and cultural events so that you can meet other study abroad and local students. Make the most of your adventure!

Advising and Support

The process of studying abroad could quickly feel overwhelming, but we have been doing this for decades and do everything we can to support you through it. 

Many SAF staff are alumni and have walked this path. They have real-life experience to draw on as they advise and support you through every step of our comprehensive services. They’re in your corner, taking care of all the details and explaining what you need to do next.

Take the first step in your study abroad journey by scheduling a consultation with your closest Student Counselor. You can discuss your for-credit academic courses and language programs and explore internships, research programs, and study tours. When you know what you want to do, we guide you through the pre-program steps, help you arrange your visa and transport, and finalize your accommodation or digital experience.

Get To Know Our Application Process

From academics to visa requirements, our structured process helps you choose the right program and university for your goals. Complete a strong application, and prepare for success abroad.

Personalize Your Study Abroad Plan With Your SAF Counselor

Each student has unique academic goals for a study abroad experience. As you think about studying abroad, your SAF Counselor will help you plan for success and support you every step of the way.

Commonly Asked Questions About Studying Abroad

Student Blogs

Fit

Staying Fit at DCU

Tips for staying all-around well while studying abroad at DCU.

Informational

Why Travel With SAF?

Studying abroad is an unforgettable experience, one that stays with you in your career, your contacts, your future. It can define you. At any of our prestigious university partners, you can build personalized for-credit programs that can last up to a whole year.

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