The University of Hawai\u02bbi (UH) and the Hawai\u02bbi State Department of Education (HIDOE) today launched Direct2UH, a new initiative that simplifies the college admissions process and removes barriers to higher education for Hawai\u02bbi\u2019s public high school seniors. The program was officially introduced on October 13 at a morning pep rally at Kaua\u02bbi High School followed by a news conference at Farrington High School.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Direct2UH provides direct admission to nine UH campuses based on students\u2019 grade point averages (GPAs), allowing them to secure a place at a UH campus without completing a traditional application. Once students complete a short online form, their admission is confirmed contingent upon graduation in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cDirect2UH recognizes the hard work of our public school students by making the path to college clearer and easier,\u201d said UH President Wendy Hensel. \u201cThis is about opening doors to lifelong success, enabling our students to pursue their dreams, contribute to our communities and build an even stronger Hawai\u02bbi, right here at home.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Currently, about half of Hawai\u02bbi public high school graduates pursue higher education after graduation. Direct2UH aims to increase college enrollment by making the state\u2019s higher education system more accessible to them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cDirect2UH affirms the potential and readiness of every high school graduate,\u201d HIDOE Superintendent Keith Hayashi said. \u201cTogether with the University of Hawai\u2018i, we\u2019re strengthening the bridge between high school and college, ensuring that the preparation happening in our classrooms leads directly to opportunity, and that our graduates are equipped to lead, serve and make a difference in Hawai\u2018i and beyond.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
UH Hilo, UH West O\u02bbahu, and the seven UH Community Colleges\u2014Hawai\u02bbi (Hawai\u02bbi Island), Honolulu, Kapi\u02bbolani, Kaua\u02bbi, Leeward, UH Maui College and Windward\u2014are participating in the Direct2UH initiative. UH M\u0101noa is expected to join the program in 2026. UH offers a full range of educational opportunities, from trade certifications and two-year degrees to four-year and graduate programs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cThis initiative sends a powerful message to our young people, that they are supported, that college is within reach, and that Hawai\u02bbi is ready to invest in their future,\u201d said Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke. \u201cBy removing barriers and creating a clear path to higher education, Direct2UH will help grow our local workforce, strengthen families and ensure that more of our keiki can thrive here at home.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
To mark the launch, every public high school senior in Hawai\u02bbi will receive an official acceptance letter to UH, signed by Hensel and Hayashi. Postcards explaining the program have also been mailed to students\u2019 homes to share information with parents and families.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For more information about Direct2UH, including eligibility and campus options, visit direct2uh.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n How Direct2UH works<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Students go to direct2uh.com<\/a> and enter their names, HIDOE ID, GPA and date of birth. Once confirmed, students submit a Campus Choice Form online, at no cost, to secure their spot. Though UH M\u0101noa is not participating in the pilot year, students interested in attending UH\u2019s flagship campus can apply at https:\/\/manoa.hawaii.edu\/admissions\/<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n