Hawaii Community College

School Introduction

Welcome to the Intensive English Program at Hawaii Community College, which is located on the eastern side of the Island of Hawaii in the small town of Hilo. The "Big Island" is known for its natural beauty, cultural diversity, and rich history. This is a quiet and safe environment perfect for studying. Students who enroll in the IEP are exempt from any TOEFL score requirements when they apply to enter the credit programs at Hawaii CC. Hawaii CC is has many vocational and technical degree programs but it is also known for its unique Hawaiian Lifestyles degree program which allows students to focus on the art of Hula, ancient Hawaiian fishing techniques or the cultivation of taro. If you are aiming for a four-year degree, you can complete your Liberal Arts Degree (AA) at our school, then transfer easily to the University of Hawaii at Manoa or the University of Hawaii at Hilo.

ESL Program Introduction

The IEP at Hawaii Community College offers new students a range of services and exciting opportunities to learn English and to gain skills that will ensure their success in college. To help students upon arrival, we find housing for them in advance, provide airport pick ups, and schedule shopping trips throughout each session. To help students get to know their island community, we provide short tours around the island to beautiful beaches, field trips around town, and many opportunities to meet and interact with locals who are native speakers of English. To help students succeed in college, we give students a chance to become acculturated to the "American" classroom, we offer counseling and academic advising, we offer immigration advising, and we assist students in applying to their next school of choice. Finally, we provide students with an intensive program in English where those who make the most effort will benefit the most.

Background Data

• Number of ESL Students: 25
• Average Class Size: 6
• Hours per Week: 20
• Minimum Age: 18
• Issue I-20: Yes
• Housing Options: Homestay  Apartment
• School Setting:  Small Town/Rural
• Accreditation: The Commission on English Language Program Accreditation (CEA)

Special Courses & Features

• Conversation Partner Program
• TOEFL Preparation Courses

Housing/Accommodation Info

We will help students find housing before they arrive. Airport pick up and shopping assistance also available.

Contact Info

Intensive English Program
Hawaii Community College
200 West Kawili Street Bldg 379-A Room 3
Hilo, Hawaii 96720

Tel (808) 933-0807
Fax (808) 974-7487
Website