Hoʻolei Scholarship Launch

Hoʻolei scholars are able to apply for jobs on campus.

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Kauaʻi High seniors at a pep rally.

Two student workers give a campus tour.

Kauaʻi CC graduates

Thanks to generous donations, Kauaʻi Community College is launching the new Hoʻolei Scholarship for the class of 2026, an exciting opportunity designed to make college more affordable—and more accessible—for graduating high school seniors.

The Hoʻolei Scholarship covers the first year of tuition at Kauaʻi CC after financial aid is applied for seniors graduating from a public high school or charter school in Kauaʻi who directly enroll at Kauaʻi CC.

How to Apply

Getting started is quick and simple. Students must:

1. Apply to Kauaʻi Community College at kauai.hawaii.edu
2. Complete the 2026-2027 FAFSA at studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa

Eligible students will be automatically considered for the Hoʻolei Scholarship once both steps are completed.

For most students, financial aid already covers the full cost of tuition at Kauaʻi CC. However, for students who still have remaining tuition costs after financial aid is applied, the Hoʻolei Scholarship will cover the rest of their first-year tuition. This means eligible students can focus on their education—not their finances.

In addition to tuition support, Hoʻolei scholars gain access to on-campus employment opportunities, allowing students to earn a paycheck and build professional work experience while staying on island and enrolled in classes.

“Hoʻolei is about opening doors, removing financial barriers, and helping our local students take the next step toward their future right here at home,” said Kauaʻi CC Chancellor Margaret Sanchez.

After applying to Kauaʻi CC, students are highly encouraged to also apply to the UH Common Scholarship and Kauaʻi CC’s first-year Waiʻaleʻale Project for additional scholarships and assistance navigating the first year of college.

A Future Closer Than You Think

With affordable tuition, career-focused programs, hands-on learning, and strong community support, Kauaʻi CC provides students with a powerful and accessible pathway to higher education and career success.

For more information about the Hoʻolei Scholarship and how to apply, visit kauai.hawaii.edu/hoolei-scholarship.

For more information, visit: http://kauai.hawaii.edu/hoolei-scholarship