International Student Services

International Student Services

International Education

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The University of Hawaiʻi: A Global University

The core mission of International Student Services (ISS) is to facilitate the academic success and personal development, growth, and transformation of international students as they pursue their educational and career goals. ISS provides a holistic approach and array of services designed to assist international students with clarifying and achieving their academic, career, and personal goals while complying with regulations pertaining to their immigration status. ISS serves as an interface between UH Hilo and international students to facilitate communication, understanding and appreciation between international students and the UH Hilo community. ISS also aims to facilitate and assist all students at UH Hilo, regardless of national origin, with developing intercultural awareness, understanding, and competency in our increasingly global community. In addition, ISS advocates for and supports efforts for advancing internationalization on campus.

Information about applying for admission to UH Hilo can be found on the Admissions website.

Students from different countries holding flags

New International Students

If you have been accepted to UH Hilo, view a list of important dates and things you need to do. Also check out Study Guide to the States and the International Student Resource Center for information and resources to help international students navigate through the process of studying in the US. Topics include what to consider if you want to study in the US, how to apply for a visa to enter the US, how to maintain your status while in the US, guidelines for traveling back home, and working in the US.

Upcoming Events & Activities

Smiling students

New International Student Welcome & Check-In Meeting - 8/19/26

Wednesday, August 19, 2026
8:00 am at the Student Services Center Room 201

All new international students are required to attend this welcome and check-in meeting. We will review important matters and then take you to Student Medical Services to get cleared for any health requirements that you still need to clear.

man teaching a student how to make a lei

Kuʻu Lei Hilo - 9/9/26

Tuesday, September 9, 2026 5:00-7:00 pm at Campus Center Room 301

Join us for an introduction to the Hawaiian language and other activities to introduce you to Native Hawaiian culture. Check your UH email for details and to sign up. Space is limited.

students and families

Host Family Reception - 9/22/26

Friday, September 22, 2026 5:30 pm at the Student Services Center Room 201

New international students who requested a host family will meet their host family at this informal "meet and greet" reception. Pupu to be served. Check your UH email for details.

International Student Association (ISA)

International Student Association

ISA is a student club for international students and their friends. The club's motto is "Unite, Serve, Educate". The club organizes trips, social events and service opportunities throughout the year, as well as UH Hilo’s annual International Nights.

ISA Officers for 2025-2026:

  • Caroline Lynch (Pohnpei, FSM) - President
  • Folliet Schutz (Kiribati) - Vice President
  • Marina Sasagawa (Japan) - Secretary
  • Tatiana Nena (Kosrae, FSM) - Treasurer
  • Kyle Thomas (Marshall Islands) - Member-at-Large
  • Waylane Lazarus (Marshall Islands) - Member-at-Large

Officers

Follow ISA on Facebook , X & Instagram (@uhhisa)!