If you're a parent on Oahu — whether you've lived here for decades or you just got here — the private school question comes up fast. This guide covers the major Honolulu-area private schools: what they cost, what they're known for, and what makes each one different.
I'm writing this as a tutor who works with students across these schools — the goal is an honest, practical reference you can come back to as you explore your options. If you're reading this in the fall, most schools are holding open houses right now — check each school's events page for dates.
At a Glance
*Kamehameha announced Dec. 2025 that tuition will be eliminated starting 2026–27, pending Probate Court approval. Click any card to jump to that school.
Punahou School
Founded 1841 · Mānoa/Punahou · punahou.edu
Located at the edge of Mānoa Valley on a 76-acre campus, Punahou's strength is breadth — strong academics, extensive arts and athletics, global education opportunities, and facilities that rival small colleges. The alumni network is enormous and deeply connected throughout Hawaii.
Punahou offers need-blind admissions and distributes $10.8 million in aid annually. 23% of students receive assistance, averaging $12,600. The SSAT is required starting at grade 4. Primary entry points are kindergarten, grade 7, and grade 9.
💡 Good to Know
Punahou superscores the SSAT — they take the highest score from each section across multiple sittings. Taking it more than once works in your favor.
Applications open August 1 each year, with deadlines around October–November depending on grade level. Visit Admissions →
'Iolani School
Founded 1863 · Ala Moana · Episcopal · iolani.org
'Iolani sits on a 25-acre campus in the Ala Moana area and is known for academic rigor — 29 AP courses is among the highest in Hawaiʻi. The Sullivan Center signals a strong push into STEM and design thinking. Athletics are strong, especially tennis, swimming, and water polo.
Boarding is available for grades 9–12 (day tuition goes to $32,890 for 2026–27). About 25% receive aid. The SSAT is required — admissions says no strict cutoff, but strong scores matter.
💡 Good to Know
The culture is often described as high-achieving and structured. The Episcopal identity is present but light — chapel is about community, not doctrine. Visit campus to feel if it's right for your child.
Applications typically due late January. Visit Admissions →
Kamehameha Schools (Kapālama)
Founded 1887 · Kalihi · Hawaiian Heritage Mission · ksbe.edu
Founded through the will of Princess Bernice Pauahi Bishop, Kamehameha's mission is to educate and strengthen people of Hawaiian ancestry. The Kapālama campus in Kalihi serves ~3,200 students and is deeply rooted in Hawaiian culture, language, and values.
In December 2025, trustees announced tuition will be eliminated entirely starting 2026–27, pending court approval. The ~$15 billion endowment already subsidized 92% of costs. Admissions are highly competitive — 3 to 17 applications per spot. The window is short (Aug–Sep) and includes testing, recommendations, and family interviews.
📌 Important
Kamehameha's admissions preference for Native Hawaiian students reflects the school's founding mission. This is a deeply meaningful institution — families should approach the process with understanding of that context.
K–12 applications open mid-August, due by late September. Visit Admissions →
SSAT and MAP scores are a big part of the admissions process at most of these schools. If your child could use help getting ready, the free intro session is a good starting point — no commitment, just a conversation about where they're at.
Mid-Pacific Institute
Founded 1908 · Mānoa Valley · First IB Programme in Hawaiʻi · midpac.edu
Mid-Pacific's 43-acre Mānoa Valley campus houses the IB Diploma Programme (first in the state), the School of the Arts, and the project-based MPX Exploratory Program. About 32% receive need-based aid averaging $14,600. Full-tuition merit scholarships are available for entering 9th graders.
The campus has a creative, slightly less buttoned-up feel. If your child is a creative learner or the IB approach appeals to you, this is worth a close look.
Saint Louis School
Founded 1846 · St. Louis Heights · All-Boys Catholic · saintlouishawaii.org
At $15–17.5K/yr, Saint Louis is significantly more affordable than Punahou or 'Iolani. The accelerated college prep track includes dual-enrollment through Chaminade University — students can earn college credits before graduating high school.
Athletics are a major part of the culture, especially football (multiple state championships, Division I pipeline). Catholic identity is real — Mass, service, values-based education — but the school enrolls students of all backgrounds.
Applications typically due late February. Visit Admissions →
Also Worth Knowing
Maryknoll School
Largest co-ed Catholic school in Hawaiʻi. Mandarin Immersion program and dual-credit with HPU. Rolling admissions — more accessible for mid-year transfers.
Sacred Hearts Academy
Near Saint Louis School with joint programs. Strong option for single-sex girls' education in the Catholic tradition.
Damien Memorial
Smaller student body, strong community feel. College prep and service focus. Good for families in the Kalihi area.
What These Schools Have in Common
Financial aid is real
Every school offers need-based aid. Punahou is need-blind. Kamehameha is going free. Apply for aid regardless of income.
Admissions tests matter
Most schools require the SSAT or MAP. Starting prep early gives your child confidence without last-minute pressure.
Visit the campus
Every school feels different in person. Fall open houses are the best way to compare — go to more than one.
Entry points vary
K, 6th, 7th, and 9th are common entry years. Check each school's admissions page for which grades are open.
