The University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, in partnership with Hawaii News Now and sponsor UH Federal Credit Union, has launched the 8th annual #TakeMeToMānoa scholarship competition—offering one full year of Hawaiʻi resident tuition (fall 2026 through spring 2027), made possible by UH Federal Credit Union.
“At the University of Hawaiʻi Federal Credit Union, we believe education is a powerful pathway to financial well-being and long-term success,” said President and CEO Travis Bow. “Our roots and focus are tied to the University of Hawaiʻi, and we are dedicated to uplifting its students, employees, and their families with outstanding financial solutions and value. By supporting the #TakeMeToMānoa scholarship year after year since its inception, we demonstrate our commitment to making higher education more accessible for local families while strengthening our community for generations to come.”
The competition is open to Hawaiʻi residents who have been accepted and confirmed enrollment for the fall 2026 semester at UH Mānoa as a first time freshman or transfer student. To enter, eligible students must submit a short video, no longer than 60 seconds on the official contest page at Hawaii News Now, explaining why UH Mānoa is the right place for them or how a year of free tuition would impact their future. Only one entry per person per day is allowed.
“UH Mānoa is a premier institution in academics, athletics, student support and research, so our undergraduate students will experience excellence,” said UH Mānoa Interim Provost Vassilis Syrmos. “The #TakeMeToMānoa scholarship is a great way to support their dreams while encouraging them to pursue a world-class education right here at home.”
The enter-to-win contest opened on April 6, 2026, and runs through Sunday, May 3, 2026.
Now in its eighth year, the contest continues to spotlight the dreams and determination of Hawaiʻi’s students.
Read more about previous winners:
- 2025 winner: #TakeMeToMānoa scholarship winner surprised by news crew
- 2024 winner: Kauaʻi HS senior surprised with free tuition in #TakeMeToMānoa contest
- 2023 winner: Amid tears, cheers, HS senior’s video vision wins UH Mānoa tuition
- Meet more #TakeMeToMānoa winners
The contest reflects a broader mission to keep Hawaiʻi’s students learning and thriving close to home. With nearly 100 undergraduate majors and a global reputation for academic excellence, the university remains a top choice for students looking to build a future rooted in the islands.
