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BYUH Admissions Policy

Legal Disclosures and Select Institutional Policies

BYU–Hawaii exists to provide an education consistent with the religious and family values taught by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The Admissions Office gives preference to members of the Church in good standing.

In compliance with applicable state and federal nondiscrimination laws (e.g., Title VI, Title IX, and Section 504), BYU–Hawaii will not unlawfully discriminate against applicants based upon gender, race, creed, religion, national origin, age, or disability who meet the requirements, who agree to abide by the BYU–Hawaii Honor Code and Dress and Grooming Standards, and who are otherwise qualified based upon available space.

Questions about unlawful discrimination on the basis of sex may be referred to the college's Title IX Office coordinator.

Questions about unlawful discrimination on any other basis listed above may be referred to the college's equal opportunity manager.

Campus Security and Fire Safety Reports

In compliance with federal requirements under the Clery Act, BYU–Hawaii publishes an annual security report and fire safety report. The report is available online or in a printed format upon request. Requests may be submitted to:

Department of Public Safety

Brigham Young University–Hawaii

55-220 Kulanui Street

BYUH Box 1922

Laie, Hawaii 96762

Email: Security

Phone: (808) 675-3503

Miscellaneous Admissions and Enrollment Information Full Disclosure

Failure to disclose and submit all documents required for admission, including transcripts from each institution in which the applicant has or is currently enrolled, or any falsification of information required for admission consideration may result in disallowance of transfer credits, immediate suspension and/or loss of all credit earned at BYU–Hawaii.

Second Degree (Second Major/Additional Major)

In keeping with its mission to educate as many students as possible, BYU–Hawaii does not admit students for a second bachelor's degree. Likewise, students who wish to enhance their educational experience at BYU–Hawaii by adding a minor, certificate, or courses equivalent to a double major are welcome to do so with the understanding that these must also be completed within the 4-year allotment. Electing to start these additional programs does not grant a student any additional allotment of residency. Completing a major and courses equivalent to a second major does not mean that the student will receive two degrees. The bachelor's degree is the degree awarded and if a student receives the equivalent of two majors they still must decide which degree they wish to receive, e.g. B.A., B.S., etc., as appropriate.

Missionary Deferrals

Individuals who intend to serve a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints prior to beginning study at BYU–Hawaii are encouraged to submit an application before departing for missionary service. In most cases, applicants admitted to BYU–Hawaii may defer enrollment for a Church mission. Please contact the Admissions Office for more information.

Military Service Deferrals

Applicants admitted to BYU–Hawaii may defer enrollment for compulsory military service. Individuals required to perform military service may defer enrollment prior to beginning study at BYU–Hawaii without having to reapply. Current students who want to defer their enrollment for military service must complete the deferment process through the Registrar’s office. Domestic students on deferment will need to submit an updated ecclesiastical endorsement. International students will need to submit an updated ecclesiastical endorsement and financial verification at least several months prior to the returning semester.

Endorsement and Honor Code

Applicants for admission are required to obtain an ecclesiastical endorsement.

High standards of honor, integrity, and morality; graciousness in personal behavior, application of Christian ideals in everyday living, and abstinence from tobacco, alcohol, and harmful drugs are required of every student.

An individual wishing to apply for admission who is currently excommunicated, disfellowshipped, on probation with, or disaffiliated from the Church, or who otherwise lacks an ecclesiastical endorsement, may request an exception to this policy. The burden of persuasion is upon the applicant to clearly demonstrate to the university through the information submitted that the relevant facts and circumstances warrant an exception to this policy. Requests for exception should be directed to the Office of the President.

Enriched Environment Statement

"The Mission of BYU–Hawaii - founded, supported, and guided by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints - is to assist individuals in their quest for perfection and eternal life. That assistance should provide a period of intensive learning in a stimulating setting where a commitment to excellence is expected and the full realization of human potential is pursued."

To this end, the University seeks qualified students of various geographic, educational, cultural, ethnic, and racial backgrounds and talents, who relate together in such a manner that they are "no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints, and of the household of God." It is the University's judgment that providing educational opportunities for a mix of students who share values based on the gospel of Jesus Christ and come from a variety of backgrounds and experiences is an important educational asset to BYU–Hawaii.

Recruitment

BYU–Hawaii strives to treat students ethically, respectfully, and professionally in the marketing, recruiting, and admissions process so that students can make an informed enrollment decision. BYU–Hawaii complies with applicable regulations related to restrictions on misrepresentation, recruitment, and payment of incentive compensation. In compliance with applicable state and federal nondiscrimination laws (e.g., Title VI, Title IX, and Section 504) and its Nondiscrimination and Equal Opportunity Policy, BYU–Hawaii prohibits unlawful discrimination against applicants based upon race, color, national or ethnic origin, religion, sex, pregnancy condition, age, disability, genetic information, or veteran status.

Former Student Readmission Policy

Former students who fail to enroll for at least one academic semester per calendar year, unless granted a deferment or leave of absence, are required to submit an application for readmission (refer to Registration Policy). Prior academic records may undergo reassessment, and program requirements could be adjusted to align with current academic standards. It is imperative that any outstanding financial obligations, such as past-due balances, be resolved before a readmission determination can be made. This policy aims to ensure a streamlined and equitable process for rejoining our academic community while upholding the high standards of the university.

Admissions Exceptions Committee

The Admissions Exceptions Committee (AEC) is responsible for establishing a selective admission exception process for applicants who do not meet the admission eligibility standards, or who have applied and have received an official denial from the University, and may submit a letter of appeal to the AEC. The committee is composed of the following members: Student Life Vice President, Dean of Students, Admissions Manager, Admissions Officers, Recruitment Manager, Financial Aid Manager, International Student Services Manager, Residential Life Manager, and Faculty. The committee will meet bi-monthly or as needed. All members of the committee have full voting privileges. Each case will be reviewed carefully by the committee. A majority vote is taken to determine the admission decision. Applicants are notified by email shortly after final decisions are made. The Admissions Exceptions Committee reserves the right to make exceptions to admission policy and guidelines as deemed appropriate.

Additional Information

Applicants may contact the Admissions Office for additional information and should refer to the BYU catalog and the University Policies Website for a full statement of applicable policies.