The University of Hawaii at Manoa (UHM) offers a vibrant and diverse campus experience for its students. With a population of over 20,000 undergraduate and graduate students, UHM provides a wide range of on-campus housing options to accommodate the diverse needs of its student body.

On-Campus Housing Options
UHM offers various on-campus housing options, including residence halls, apartments, and houses. Each type of housing provides unique amenities and living experiences tailored to different student preferences.
Residence Halls
Residence halls are the most common type of on-campus housing at UHM. They are designed for traditional college living, with shared bedrooms and common areas. Residence halls foster a strong sense of community and provide convenient access to campus facilities.
- East-West Center (850 beds): Located in the heart of campus, East-West Center offers air-conditioned rooms with shared bathrooms. Amenities include a dining hall, laundry facilities, and study lounges.
- Frear Hall (1,000 beds): Frear Hall is a high-rise dormitory with stunning views of Honolulu. Rooms are air-conditioned and feature private bathrooms. The building includes a fitness center, pool, and convenience store.
- Kamehameha Iki (1,100 beds): Located on the lower campus, Kamehameha Iki provides traditional dorm-style living. Rooms are air-conditioned and shared bathrooms. Amenities include laundry facilities, study lounges, and a barbecue area.
Apartments
Apartments offer a more independent living experience than residence halls. They feature private bedrooms, bathrooms, and kitchens, providing students with more space and privacy.
- Ilima (448 beds): Ilima offers fully furnished two-bedroom apartments with a full kitchen and bathroom. Amenities include a fitness center, pool, and laundry facilities.
- Kolea (234 beds): Kolea provides single-bedroom apartments with a private bathroom and kitchenette. Amenities include a fitness center, laundry facilities, and a study lounge.
- Nanakuli (116 beds): Nanakuli offers two-bedroom apartments with a private bathroom and full kitchen. Amenities include laundry facilities, a barbecue area, and a community garden.
Houses
Houses are the most spacious and private on-campus housing option. They are designed for families or groups of students who want to live independently.
- Hanohano (36 beds): Hanohano offers three-bedroom houses with a private bathroom, full kitchen, and living room. Amenities include a playground, basketball court, and barbecue area.
- Manono (60 beds): Manono provides four-bedroom houses with a private bathroom, full kitchen, and living room. Amenities include a play area, laundry facilities, and a community center.
Cost and Amenities
The cost of on-campus housing at UHM varies depending on the type of housing and the number of occupants. The average cost for a single room in a residence hall is $10,000-$12,000 per academic year, while a two-bedroom apartment can cost $15,000-$20,000 per year.
All on-campus housing options include basic amenities such as Wi-Fi, air conditioning (in most cases), laundry facilities, and access to student services. Some buildings also offer additional amenities such as fitness centers, swimming pools, and convenience stores.
Application Process
Applying for on-campus housing at UHM is a competitive process. Applications are typically released in January for the following academic year. Students are encouraged to apply early to secure their preferred housing option.
To apply, students must submit an online application through the UHM Housing website. The application requires personal information, academic information, and payment of an application fee.
Off-Campus Housing
For students who prefer to live off-campus, there are numerous rental options available in the surrounding areas of Manoa and Honolulu. Off-campus housing can be more affordable than on-campus housing, but students need to factor in additional costs such as transportation, utilities, and groceries.
Students who choose to live off-campus should research different neighborhoods and rental options carefully to find a safe and affordable place to live. They should also consider signing a lease with a co-signer if they have limited rental history or income.
Tips for Choosing On-Campus Housing
- Consider your budget and lifestyle when selecting a housing option.
- Tour the different housing buildings before applying to get a firsthand look at the amenities and atmosphere.
- Apply for housing early to secure your preferred option.
- Take advantage of the community-building events and activities offered by the housing department.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the cost of on-campus housing at UHM?
* The cost of on-campus housing varies depending on the type of housing and the number of occupants. The average cost for a single room in a residence hall is $10,000-$12,000 per academic year, while a two-bedroom apartment can cost $15,000-$20,000 per year.
Q: When is the deadline to apply for on-campus housing?
* Applications for on-campus housing are typically released in January for the following academic year. The deadline to apply is typically in April, but students are encouraged to apply early to secure their preferred housing option.
Q: What are the amenities included in on-campus housing?
* All on-campus housing options include basic amenities such as Wi-Fi, air conditioning (in most cases), laundry facilities, and access to student services. Some buildings also offer additional amenities such as fitness centers, swimming pools, and convenience stores.
Q: Can I live off-campus as a UHM student?
* Yes, students can choose to live off-campus. However, they should research different neighborhoods and rental options carefully to find a safe and affordable place to live. They should also consider signing a lease with a co-signer if they have limited rental history or income.
Q: How do I apply for on-campus housing?
* To apply for on-campus housing, students must submit an online application through the UHM Housing website. The application requires personal information, academic information, and payment of an application fee.
Conclusion
On-campus housing at the University of Hawaii at Manoa provides students with a convenient, comfortable, and engaging living experience. With a variety of options to choose from, students can find the perfect housing solution to fit their needs and budget. By carefully considering their preferences and applying early, students can secure their preferred on-campus housing and enjoy the full benefits of campus life.