Kipona Scholarship by Kamehameha Schools offers need-based aid to Native Hawaiian students in grades K-12 attending eligible private schools in Hawai‘i. Applicants must show financial need, provide proof of ancestry, and reapply annually.
| Scholarship Name | Kipona Scholarship Program |
|---|
| Awarding Body | Kamehameha Schools (KS) |
| Eligibility | – Must be of Native Hawaiian descent – Enrolled or enrolling in a KS-eligible private school in Hawai‘i – Demonstrated financial need |
| Grade Levels | Varies by school year and location |
| Award Amount | Varies based on financial need and school tuition |
| Renewal | Annual reapplication required if eligibility is maintained |
| Application Process | 1. Apply online via KS admissions portal 2. Submit proof of Hawaiian ancestry and financial documents 3. Meet annual deadlines |
| Award Notification | By July each year |
| Disbursement | Funds are sent directly to the private school (typically in August) |
| More Information | https://www.ksbe.edu |
Education isn’t cheap, and private school tuition can feel impossible.
That’s where the Kipona Scholarship Program, offered by Kamehameha Schools (KS), steps in.
If you’re a Native Hawaiian student and your family needs financial assistance, this scholarship could help cover tuition at a participating private school in Hawai‘i.
Scholarship Amount
- Need-based financial assistance (award amounts vary).
- Funds go directly to the school
- Renewable every year (but you must reapply and stay eligible).
Who’s Eligible?
To qualify, you must:
- Be of Native Hawaiian ancestry (ancestry verification required).
- Hawai‘i resident (living in the state continuously for at least 12 months).
- Attend or plan to attend a participating private school in Hawai‘i.
- Demonstrate financial need (you’ll need to provide tax documents).
- Meet grade-level requirements (varies by year).
For New Students (SY 2025–26):
- Must be entering grade 6 or 9.
- Must be enrolled at a KS-approved private school.
For Returning Students:
- Must have used a Kipona award for the 2024–25 school year.
- Must be progressing to the next grade level.
Pro Tip: KS releases an updated list of participating schools every year—always check the latest guidelines before applying.
How to Apply for the Scholarship?
Check Your Eligibility
Make sure you meet all the requirements. New and returning applicants have different criteria, so double-check your qualifications.
Apply Online
- Submit your application through FACTS.
- Application fee: $40.
- If parents live in the same household: Only one application is needed.
- If parents live separately & share custody: Each parent must submit their own application.
Upload Financial Documents
You’ll need to provide:
- 2023 signed federal income tax return (plus any applicable tax schedules).
- Proof of non-taxable income (if applicable).
Verify Hawaiian Ancestry
Kamehameha Schools gives preference to applicants of Hawaiian ancestry, as permitted by law.
Your child’s ancestry must be verified through KS’ Ho‘oulu Verification Services.
Submit Custodial Documents (If Needed)
- If the child’s biological parents are not currently married, you’ll need to provide:
- Divorce decrees
- Custody agreements
- Legal guardianship documents
Custodial verification ensures the correct legal parent/guardian has decision-making authority for school-related matters.
Wait for Your Decision Letter
Decision letters will be emailed starting May 2025.
Application Calendar for SY 2025–26
- August 15, 2024 – Applications Open
- December 1, 2024 – Application Deadline
- May 2025 – Decision Letters Sent
- August 2025 – Award Payments Begin
What’s Expected from Recipients?
Unlike many scholarships, Kipona isn’t just about tuition assistance—it’s about giving back.
Community Service Requirement:
- Students and their families must complete service hours each year.
- The service should benefit Native Hawaiian, indigenous, or underserved communities.
Annual Reapplication & Verification:
You must reapply every year and continue to meet financial and academic requirements.
Schools will verify your continued enrollment annually.
Ask for Help
- KS Resource Centers provide free assistance via phone, email, and in-person.
- Contact: (808) 534-8080 | ksrc@ksbe.edu
- KS may request additional info—if you don’t respond, your application could be considered incomplete.
If you’re a Native Hawaiian family looking for private school options, Kipona can make a huge difference.
But it’s not a one-time deal—you must apply on time, provide documents, and stay engaged in your community.
