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.
Hawaii Community College & University of Hawaii, Hilo English Language Standalone Program
About the Program
At a Glance
Language of Instruction:
English
Language Prerequisite Level:
None
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
Because I was taking a hula class, my class graduation ceremony was unique to Hawaii.
University of Hawaii, Hilo SAF Alumni
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.
The IEP courses range from a low to higher-intermediate level. You will work with your classmates to complete projects on topics of interest, thus learning English in context.
There are 2 core classes which build the four skills: reading, writing, speaking and listening; along with one additional Special Topics course whose content changes every term.
Courses
Classroom Hours
The SAF program fee tuition rate is based on enrollment in 18 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.
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 Test Score Requirements
There is a difference in requirements based on the entry period of your study term:
If you start with the Winter quarter, Spring quarter, or Summer term, you will start with courses at Hilo Community College (HCC) Intensive English Program (IEP). There is no language test score requirement for these start terms.
If you start with the Fall term, you will start with courses at University of Hawaii, Hilo (UHH) English Language Institute (ELI). There is a language test score requirement for these courses.To prove your language proficiency for UHH, you can use any of the following:
- IELTS: 5.5
- TOEFL iBT: 61
- TOEFL PBT: 500
- Duolingo: 90
You will also complete a English level placement test upon arrival for both UHH and HCC programs.
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 Standalone + Winter 2025 Language Standalone
Program dates:
Late August - Early March
Application Deadline:
Fees Starting From:
$
25,760
Fall 2024 Language Standalone
Program dates:
Late August - Mid December
Application Deadline:
Fees Starting From:
$
18,190
Spring 2025 Language Standalone + Summer 2025 Language Standalone
Program dates:
Late March - Late July
Application Deadline:
Fees Starting From:
$
17,510
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
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.
The Student Experience
Beyond the Beaches: The History that Made Hilo
It can be easy to look at the stunning landscape of the island of Hawaii and think no further, but Hilo has a rich history. Here are a few of Hilo’s most...
Orientation
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
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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.
