Catalog 2019–2020

Information for Admitted Students

This is content from the Catalog 2019–2020 back issue. Please visit the current catalog for current information.

Partial Advance Tuition Deposit

Newly accepted students will be asked to submit a $60 tuition deposit if they intend to enroll at the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo. The deposit is non-refundable, cannot be transferred to another campus, and applies only for the term the student was accepted. Students who are experiencing financial difficulty and who are awaiting financial aid should contact the Admissions Office in writing to secure their enrollment for the following term.

Student Health Insurance

Health insurance is highly recommended for all students. A University of Hawaiʻi endorsed student health insurance plan is designed for students. Detailed information about this insurance plan including costs and an application are available online. Applications may also be picked up from the Student Medical Services Office (Campus Center 212).

International students in F-1 Student or J-1 Exchange Visitor status must have adequate health and accident insurance each semester. F-1 Students must present proof of their insurance to the Director of International Student Services prior to registration. J-1 Exchange Visitors must present such proof to their Responsible Officers.

Students who do not have private health insurance may qualify for State of Hawaiʻi health insurance called Med-QUEST. Qualifications for this free, limited insurance plan are based on income and assets. Detailed information including an application is available online on the Med-QUEST website.

Medical Clearance

In accordance with Hawaiʻi State law, all newly-enrolled students must submit the following:

  1. A completed Mandatory Health Requirements form (mailed from the Admissions Office with the student’s acceptance letter);
  2. Results of a tuberculin skin test (PPD) not more than 12 months prior to attending first day of classes and if the PPD is positive, a chest x-ray performed not more than 12 months prior to attending first day of classes (note: tuberculin tests and chest x-rays performed in foreign countries are not acceptable for clearance);
  3. If born after 1956, proof of immunity to measles (rubeola), mumps, and rubella (MMR). Documentation of 2 MMR vaccinations or a titer is required.

These requirements must be met before the start of classes. Tuberculin skin tests (TB), MMR and other immunizations are available at the Student Medical Services on campus (costs are on the Student Medical Services website).

Note: TB tests and chest x-rays performed in foreign countries are not acceptable for clearance.

Writing Placement

Beginning Fall 2011, students’ SAT-EBRW, SAT-W score or ACT score will be used for placement into ENG 100 Composition I (3) or ENG 100T Composition with Tutorial (3) . If you do not have an SAT or ACT score and you have not yet earned credit for ENG 100 Composition I (3) (or the equivalent), you will need to take the Writing Placement Assessment before you are able to register for ENG 100 Composition I (3) or ENG 100T Composition with Tutorial (3) .

More information can be found at: UH Hilo Writing Placement Assessment

English Proficiency Test

All non-native speakers of English are required to sit for the Writing Placement Assessment and the English Proficiency Placement (EPT) to determine if supplemental ESL classes are required. More information can be found on the English Language Institute’s Placement Assessments webpage.

Math Placement

UH Hilo offers a wide range of math courses for entering students. Completing the Math Placement Assessment is required to enroll in most Math courses. The Math Placement Assessment is an online assessment which should be taken well ahead of registration.

Students with questions about their placement score should meet with an advisor or representative from the Math Department during orientation.

New Student Orientation

New Student Orientation is offered during the week before classes begin in the Fall and Spring semesters. Students enrolling at UH Hilo for the first time are provided with an extensive program of academic and social activities designed to facilitate their adjustment to the University and to the Hilo community. During orientation, academic advisors assist new students with course selection and registration. Additional orientation activities and services help students to become more knowledgeable about their campus, to become familiar with the diverse opportunities available to get involved in campus life, and to become a member of our campus community.

For students entering in the Fall semester, UH Hilo conducts early registration and academic advising sessions periodically throughout the summer. During these sessions, students learn about degree programs and requirements as well as receive assistance with selecting and registering for courses. Students attending these sessions are expected to participate fully in our New Student Orientation program as well.

Students enrolling for the first time at UH Hilo are strongly encouraged to participate in New Student Orientation. During orientation, new students will be able to build a solid foundation to ensure a successful collegiate experience and to make the essential support connections to fellow students, faculty, and staff. For more information, contact the orientation coordinator, (808) 932-7384.