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Colleges and Universities in Hawaii
Hawaii — the Aloha State — is home to 19 accredited colleges and universities, including 10 public institutions and 9 private schools. The state flagship, University of Hawaii at Manoa, anchors a higher education landscape that ranges from large research universities in Honolulu to small liberal arts colleges across the state.
Use the college finder above to search every accredited institution in Hawaii. Filter by tuition cost, institution type, acceptance rate, and more to build your 2026 college list.
Higher education in Hawaii at a glance
- Total accredited colleges: 19
- Public universities: 10
- Private colleges: 9
- Flagship institution: University of Hawaii at Manoa
- Largest higher-ed city: Honolulu
Types of colleges in Hawaii
Public universities in Hawaii are state-funded institutions that offer significantly reduced in-state tuition to Hawaii residents. These schools are typically larger, with broad program offerings across undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees.
Private colleges in Hawaii include both nonprofit institutions — which reinvest tuition revenue into academics and financial aid — and for-profit schools focused on career and technical programs. Private nonprofit colleges in Hawaii often have smaller class sizes and more generous need-based aid packages than their published tuition suggests.
Frequently asked questions — colleges in Hawaii
How many colleges are in Hawaii?
There are 19 accredited colleges and universities in Hawaii in the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard database, including 10 public and 9 private institutions.
What is the cheapest college in Hawaii?
Community colleges in Hawaii typically offer the lowest tuition — often under $5,000 per year for in-state students. Use the college finder above to find the most affordable options.
What is the largest university in Hawaii?
University of Hawaii at Manoa is among the largest and most well-known universities in Hawaii. Search for it by name in the college finder above to view its full data profile.