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International Students

We are pleased that you have selected Honolulu Community College (HCC) to pursue your academic and career goals. You’ll find our diverse community, caring faculty and outstanding courses just some of the reasons why HCC is a great choice! Follow the simple steps below to get started today!

Step 1. Submit System Application Form
  • Download System Application Form (2008-2009) [PDF] (Page two is not necessary)
  • There is a non-transferable, non-refundable $25 application fee
  • Application Deadlines:
    Fall Semester : June 15th
    Spring Semester: November 15th
Step 2. Submit Supplemental Information Form
Step 3. Submit Health Clearance Forms
Step 4. Submit Official High School and/or College Transcripts

To be considered official, the transcript has to be sent directly to HCC from the institution in which the courses were taken. Hand carried transcripts are not acceptable, even if the envelope has not been opened.

Students are responsible to obtain official translation if documents received are not in English.

Step 5. Obtain evidence of Financial Support

Obtain a letter from your bank or your sponsor’s bank (on bank stationary) verifying savings of at least $17,286.00 US for each year of study.

The letter should be dated no earlier than six months before date of enrollment.

Step 6. English Proficiency

Submit official Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) scores. Scores must be from a test no earlier than two years prior to the date of enrollment.

Minimum score for admission is 500 (by paper), 173 (computer) or 61 (iBT). Scores between 400-499 (paper) qualify for the Honolulu English Language Academy (HELA).

You do NOT need the TOEFL if fall into one of the following categories:

  • Your native Language is English.
  • You have completed 30 transfer level, semester credits OR ENG 100 (or equivalent) with a "C" or higher from a regionally accredited college or university in the US, Australia, Great Britain, Canada or New Zealand.
  • You have completed 3 years of high school education in the United States, Britain or Canada.
Step 7. For Transfer Students Only

If you are currently attending another institution in the United States, submit the Transfer Request Form [PDF] to the International Student Office at your school. Once the form is complete, please have the institution send the form directly to Honolulu Community College.

After you have been accepted:

Step 8. Apply for your student VISA

Once accepted, HCC will mail your form I-20 which is the document you will need to apply for your F-1 student visa. Check with your local Embassy or Consulate for more information

Step 9. Pay the I-901 SEVIS fee
Step 10. Get a UH Username

Detailed directions will be sent to you in your acceptance letter. This account allows you to register for classes online, check your financial aid status, check grades, pay online, and much more!

Step 11. Take a local Tuberculosis Test (TB)

Hawaii State Board of Health requires all international students to take a TB test here on the island shortly after arrival. Students should plan to arrive in Hawaii in enough time to take the test and receive results prior to the start of the semester.

Step 12. Placement Testing

Once you have been accepted to the college, we will send you information on when and where to take your placement test. All new students need to take the COMPASS Placement Test to determine current levels of English and Math skills. The test should be taken before registering for courses.

Step 13. Meet with the International Student Counselor

Once the placement test is complete and the TB has been cleared locally, students should meet with the International Student Counselor for course registration.

Step 14. Pay your tuition and fees by the posted deadline

After you have registered for classes, tuition can be paid online through the MyUH Portal using a credit card or in person at the Business Office (Building 6) using cash, check or credit card.

And finally, go to class!!!