Brigham Young University-Hawaii
Acceptance rate
47.0%
2025
Peer median 69.4%
Tuition per year
$6,630
$14,417 with room and board
Peer median $33,770
Undergraduates
2,906
Student-faculty ratio 18:1
Peer median 11 : 1
Graduation rate
34.5%
4-year; 6-year rate 50.5%
Peer median 45.1%
“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Brigham Young University-Hawaii (BYU-Hawaii) is a unique institution located in Laie, Hawaii, that blends high-quality education with a rich cultural experience. Founded in 1955, the university is affiliated with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and emphasizes a values-based education. The campus is known for its stunning natural beauty, surrounded by beautiful beaches and lush landscapes, which foster an inspiring environment for learning and personal growth. The university's mission is to provide a spiritually uplifting environment where students can develop their character and intellect while preparing for their future careers.
BYU-Hawaii offers a diverse range of programs, with a strong focus on undergraduate degrees in areas such as business, education, and the arts. One of the standout features of the university is its commitment to international diversity, with students representing more than 70 countries. This multicultural atmosphere enhances the learning experience and encourages students to engage with different perspectives. Additionally, BYU-Hawaii is known for its strong emphasis on service and leadership, encouraging students to participate in community service and develop skills that will benefit them in their personal and professional lives. The university's campus culture is vibrant, with numerous extracurricular activities, clubs, and athletic programs that promote a sense of community and belonging among students.
Trends in Tuition, Enrollment, and Graduation Rates at Brigham Young University-Hawaii
Over the years, Brigham Young University-Hawaii has demonstrated a notable trend in tuition fees, which has consistently increased from $4,770 in 2014 to $6,438 in 2024 for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students. This represents a significant rise of approximately 35%, reflecting a broader trend in higher education where tuition rates have been rising faster than inflation. Such increases can pose challenges for students and families, particularly as they seek to navigate the financial burden of college education.
In terms of enrollment, the student population has shown fluctuations. The undergraduate enrollment peaked at 3,176 students in 2019 but dropped to 2,735 by 2023. This decline may be indicative of changing demographic trends or economic factors that affect student decisions regarding higher education. A shrinking student body could impact the university's financial stability and diversity, making recruitment strategies more crucial.
Graduation rates also provide insight into the institution's performance. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduate students has experienced variability, with a low of 22.0% in 2018 and a high of 30.6% in 2017. The 2023 rate stands at 26.7%, reflecting ongoing challenges in ensuring that students complete their degrees within the expected timeframe. Addressing the factors contributing to these rates is imperative for the university, as graduation rates are closely tied to institutional reputation and student satisfaction.
In summary, while Brigham Young University-Hawaii has seen an increase in tuition, it faces challenges with fluctuating enrollment and graduation rates. As the institution navigates these dynamics, it will be essential to implement effective strategies to enhance student retention and graduation outcomes while managing the financial implications of rising tuition costs.
- Setting
- Town near a city
- Nearest major city
- Honolulu, about 25 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL), about 20 mi
- Also known as
- BYUH, BYUHC, BYU Hawaii, BYU Hawaii Campus, Brigham Young University Hawaii, Brigham Young University Hawaii Campus, BYU-H, BYU-HC, BYU-Hawaii, BYU-Hawaii Campus, Brigham Young University Hawaii Campus, BYU - H, BYU - HC, BYU - Hawaii, BYU - Hawaii Campus, Brigham Young University - Hawaii, Brigham Young University - Hawaii Campus, BYUHawaii, BYUHawaii Campus
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Latter Day Saints (Mormon Church)
- President
- John S.K. Kauwe III (President)
- Phone
- 8086753211
- Address
- 55-220 Kulanui Street, Laie, HI 96762-1294
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 68.6%, women 52.0%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at Brigham Young University-Hawaii
The admission data for Brigham Young University-Hawaii over the years reveals significant fluctuations in both acceptance rates and enrollment numbers, reflecting broader trends in higher education. For instance, the male acceptance rate peaked at approximately 90% in 2021, indicating a more accommodating admission policy during that year. Conversely, the female acceptance rate was notably lower, never exceeding 87% in the same period, suggesting a possible gender disparity in admissions.
Enrollment figures have also varied, with the highest number of incoming students recorded at 707 in 2022. This peak aligns with a general trend observed in many universities where, post-pandemic, there has been a surge in applications as students seek to resume their education in a more stable environment. However, the data also shows a concerning rise in the number of denied applicants, reaching over 2,198 in 2013, highlighting the competitive nature of admissions during that time.
Moreover, the number of deferred admissions fluctuated, peaking at 776 in 2019, which could indicate a strategic move by the university to manage enrollment amidst uncertainties or perhaps a response to an increase in applications.
Overall, this dataset illustrates the complexities and changing dynamics in university admissions, influenced by external factors such as the global pandemic and shifting demographics. As institutions continue to adapt to these changes, it will be interesting to observe how these trends evolve in the coming years, especially in light of ongoing discussions around equity and access in higher education.
School and Program Rankings
U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking
Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition
Social Sciences and Humanities1 programs—
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 12% submitted SAT, 24% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT scores required for admission
Data insights
Trends in Admission Scores at Brigham Young University-Hawaii
The admission data from Brigham Young University-Hawaii over the years reveals several interesting trends regarding standardized test scores and submission rates. Notably, while the number of students submitting SAT scores has fluctuated, the percentage of applicants providing these scores has generally declined, dropping from 12% in 2007 to just 12% again in 2023. This consistent low submission rate over the years could indicate a shift in applicant behavior or a broader trend in higher education where students may feel less pressure to submit standardized test scores due to test-optional policies gaining popularity across many institutions.
In terms of actual scores, we observe a gradual increase in the 25th and 75th percentile scores for the SAT reading and mathematics sections over the years. For example, the 25th percentile for SAT reading rose from 440 in 2007 to 520 in 2023, while the 75th percentile increased from 548 to 628 in the same period. This upward trend suggests that the university is admitting students with increasingly stronger academic backgrounds.
The ACT data reflects a similar pattern, with its composite scores showing a steady rise in the performance of admitted students. This elevating standard for admissions could be indicative of the university's efforts to enhance academic quality and competitiveness, which aligns with national trends of institutions aiming to attract high-achieving students.
Overall, the data suggests that Brigham Young University-Hawaii is witnessing a rise in the caliber of admitted students, alongside a notable decline in the reliance on standardized test scores, which may reflect broader changes in the admissions landscape.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 5 in 10
1,020 applicants in 2025, 47.0% admitted
479 admitted 541 not admitted Yield 75.2%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Brigham Young University-Hawaii
The graduation data from Brigham Young University-Hawaii for 2023 reveals some insightful trends across various disciplines. Notably, the Business Administration and Management program stands out with the highest number of graduates at the bachelor's level, totaling 110 students, of which 39% are international students. This significant proportion indicates the program's global appeal, aligning with the rising trend of international students seeking business degrees in the United States.
In contrast, other majors like Biology and Social Work show a markedly lower number of graduates, with only 52 and 39 respectively at the bachelor's level. The lack of master's or doctorate graduates in these fields suggests a potential gap in advanced study opportunities for students, which may affect future enrollment in these programs.
Interestingly, the Hospitality Administration program also has a considerable number of international students, making up 54% of its total graduates. This could reflect the growing importance of hospitality management in a globalized economy, particularly in a tourism-rich location like Hawaii.
Moreover, the absence of master's and doctorate graduates across most programs raises questions about the university's focus on undergraduate education. As the job market increasingly demands advanced qualifications, the university may need to consider expanding its graduate offerings to meet these needs.
Overall, the data indicates a robust undergraduate program, especially in business, while also highlighting areas for potential growth and development in graduate education.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | - | ||
| Accounting. | - | ||
| Hospitality Administration/Management, General. | $44,203 | ||
| International Business/Trade/Commerce. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $43,862 | ||
| Biochemistry. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Social Work. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Information Technology. | - | ||
| Information Science/Studies. | - | ||
| Computer Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | - | ||
| English/Language Arts Teacher Education. | - | ||
| Mathematics Teacher Education. | - | ||
| Physical Education Teaching and Coaching. | - | ||
| Teaching English as a Second or Foreign Language/ESL Language Instructor. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Graphic Design. | - | ||
| Art/Art Studies, General. | - | ||
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cultural Anthropology. | - | ||
| Political Science and Government, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $23,614 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Intercultural/Multicultural and Diversity Studies. | - | ||
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Communication and Media Studies, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pacific Area/Pacific Rim Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
Students
2,906 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 42:58 · Freshman retention 73.5%
- Continuing undergraduates 2,447
- First-year undergraduates 354
- Transfers and others 105
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (2,906)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Data insights
Demographic Insights of Brigham Young University-Hawaii Students in 2023
The student demographics at Brigham Young University-Hawaii for the year 2023 reveal a diverse population with a notable gender distribution among different categories of students. The undergraduate freshmen constitute a significant group, with a total of 340 students, where females represent a larger portion at 61.2%, compared to 38.8% males. This trend continues among the undergraduate continuing students, who number 2,198, with women making up 59.2% of the cohort.
Undergraduate transfer students also show a similar pattern, with 178 students and a female representation of 59.6%. These figures suggest a consistent trend of higher female enrollment across the undergraduate levels at this institution. In contrast, the graduate students, though fewer in number at 19, present a slight majority of males at 42.1%.
The breakdown of ethnic backgrounds among these student populations indicates a predominance of white and Asian students, both of which contribute to the rich cultural tapestry of the university. However, the specific numbers for these subcategories were not fully disclosed, which limits our understanding of the comprehensive diversity present.
Overall, these demographic insights reflect broader trends in higher education, where female students increasingly outnumber their male counterparts, particularly in undergraduate programs. Understanding these dynamics is essential for educational institutions as they work to create inclusive environments that cater to the needs of all students.
Demographic Insights of Brigham Young University-Hawaii's Student Age Composition
The age distribution data from Brigham Young University-Hawaii reveals intriguing insights into the student population. Notably, the majority of undergraduate students fall within the 18-24 age range, which is typical for college campuses. Specifically, students aged 18-19 and 20-21 account for 25.5% and 37.5% of the total population respectively, underscoring the university's appeal to traditional-age students.
Interestingly, the data highlights a significant drop in enrollment for students aged 25 and above. The 25-29 age group represents 14.1% of the total, while the 30-34 group comprises merely 2.8%. This trend may reflect broader societal patterns where younger individuals are increasingly pursuing higher education immediately after high school, while older students may face other life commitments that hinder their ability to attend.
Moreover, the absence of graduate male students in the dataset suggests a potential area for growth in graduate programs, particularly for older demographics seeking advanced degrees. This observation aligns with national trends indicating a rise in non-traditional students pursuing graduate education.
In conclusion, the age composition at BYU-Hawaii mirrors broader trends in higher education, emphasizing the dominance of younger students while also highlighting potential opportunities for engaging older demographics. As universities adapt to meet the needs of diverse student populations, understanding these age dynamics will be crucial for strategic planning and program development.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
1,762 in 2025 · 37.1% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Brigham Young University-Hawaii
The data on international student enrollment at Brigham Young University-Hawaii reveals significant fluctuations over the years, reflecting broader trends in global education and mobility. From 2004 to 2023, the number of undergraduate students varied, with a peak in 2019 at 3,176 students. Notably, the percentage of international students has seen a general decline from 46.54% in 2004 to a low of 34.48% in 2015, before experiencing a resurgence to 49.10% in 2023. This resurgence may indicate a renewed interest in U.S. higher education, possibly influenced by changing visa policies or the university's unique offerings.
The decline in international student numbers around 2010-2015 could be attributed to various factors, including economic downturns and increased competition from universities in other countries. However, the subsequent increase suggests that institutions like BYU-Hawaii are regaining their appeal, particularly in a post-pandemic world where students are eager to experience diverse cultural environments.
International students play a crucial role in enriching the campus culture and contributing to the local economy. As the demand for globalized education continues to rise, universities must adapt their recruitment strategies to attract and support these students effectively. The data underscores the importance of fostering an inclusive environment that not only attracts international students but also supports their academic and social needs. Overall, the trends indicate a dynamic landscape for international education, with potential for growth and diversification in the coming years.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$14,417
- Undergraduate tuition
- $6,630
- Room and board
- $7,787
Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 30% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 34%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$214M
Expenses$148M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · EADA
No athlete data available for 2025.
No athlete data available for 2024.
No athlete data available for 2023.
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
Data insights
Here are some notable schools near Brigham Young University-Hawaii:
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Stanford University - Ranked 3rd in the 2024 US News rankings, Stanford is a prestigious research university located in Stanford, California. It is known for its strong emphasis on entrepreneurship and innovation.
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University of California-Berkeley - Ranked 15th, UC Berkeley is a renowned public research university in Berkeley, California. It is recognized for its academic excellence and vibrant campus life.
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University of California-Los Angeles - Also ranked 15th, UCLA is a leading public research university in Los Angeles, California, known for its diverse academic programs and cultural impact.
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University of Southern California - Ranked 28th, USC is a private research university in Los Angeles, California, well-known for its strong programs in business, film, and the arts.
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University of California-Davis - Ranked 28th, UC Davis is a public research university recognized for its contributions to agricultural and environmental sciences.
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University of California-Santa Barbara - Ranked 35th, UCSB is known for its beautiful coastal campus and strong programs in the sciences and humanities.
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University of Hawaii at Manoa - Ranked 170th, this university offers a unique blend of academic programs and cultural diversity in the heart of Hawaii.
These institutions offer a variety of programs and opportunities for students in different fields of study.
Peer median 8.9 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Rates at Brigham Young University-Hawaii
The crime data from Brigham Young University-Hawaii over the past decade reveals significant fluctuations in reported incidents. The average crime rate per 1,000 students saw a dramatic increase from 1.90 in 2013 to a peak of 23.33 in 2016. This spike can be attributed to a variety of factors, including an increase in awareness and reporting of incidents, changes in campus safety policies, or even broader social issues affecting college campuses.
In the subsequent years, there was a notable decline in crime rates, with the figures dropping to 6.14 in 2017 and stabilizing around the 6 to 10 range through 2021. However, the rise in 2023 to an average of 10.82 indicates a resurgence of some criminal activities, raising concerns about campus safety and student well-being. Notably, the data highlights specific categories of crime, such as drug-related arrests and assaults, which can have profound implications for the campus community.
It is essential for university administration to proactively address these trends through enhanced safety measures, student support services, and educational programs aimed at preventing crime. The fluctuating crime rates at Brigham Young University-Hawaii reflect broader societal issues and underscore the necessity for continuous monitoring and intervention. For those interested in understanding crime rates further, you can refer to this calculation method: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Brigham Young University-Hawaii include Yuta Tabuse (Japanese professional basketball player), Eni Faleomavaega (American Samoa's non-voting House delegate, 1989–2015) and Yue-Sai Kan (Chinese-American television host, producer and entrepreneur).
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Yuta Tabuse 1980–
Japanese professional basketball player
-
Eni Faleomavaega 1943–2017
American Samoa's non-voting House delegate, 1989–2015
-
Yue-Sai Kan 1949–
Chinese-American television host, producer and entrepreneur
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Lee Dae-sung 1990–
South Korean professional basketball player
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‘Akosita Lavulavu 1984–
Tongan politician and former Cabinet Minister
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Wu Tai-Hao 1985–
Taiwanese basketball player
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George Edward Wahlen 1924–2009
Medal of Honor recipient at Iwo Jima
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Chang Tsung-hsien 1988–
Taiwanese professional basketball player
-
Fineasi Funaki 1966–2010
Tongan politician and cabinet minister
More alumni (1, by field)
Politics and law
-
‘Etuate Lavulavu 1950–
Tongan politician and former legislator
From Wikidata “educated at” records (including people who attended without graduating), ordered by the number of Wikipedia language editions. Degrees and years follow Wikidata and are left out where it has none.
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.