Beginning your Study Abroad Process

As a student at the University of Hawaii at Manoa, you have a few options to choose from when deciding to study abroad. These options include Manoa International Exchange (MIX), National Student Exchange (NSE), and Study Abroad Center (SAC). Although all options allow you to study in a designated location outside of Hawaii, they each have their own distinct differences.

The Mānoa International Exchange (MIX) Program at UH Mānoa allows students to study abroad at one of UH Mānoa's partner universities while paying UH Mānoa tuition. It provides students with opportunities for academic, cultural, and personal growth through international experiences.

Key Features of MIX:

Partner Universities: Students can study at institutions across Asia, Europe, Oceania, and more.
Tuition Structure: Students continue to pay UH Mānoa tuition, making it an affordable study abroad option.
Course Credit Transfer: Credits earned abroad can apply toward UH Mānoa degree requirements.
Duration: Programs vary in length, including semester, year-long, and summer options.
Scholarships & Financial Aid: Students may apply for financial aid and scholarships to help cover expenses.
Eligibility: Open to undergraduate and graduate students who meet GPA and other program requirements.

The National Student Exchange (NSE) Program at UH Mānoa allows students to study at over 160 universities across the U.S., Canada, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands while maintaining their UH Mānoa enrollment. This program is a great option if you want to explore the U.S. while staying within the country’s education system.

Key Features of NSE:

Exchange Destinations: Students can study at institutions in different states and territories, offering diverse academic and cultural experiences.
Tuition Options:
- Home Payment Plan – Pay regular UH Mānoa tuition while studying at another NSE school.
- Host Payment Plan – Pay the in-state tuition of the host institution.
Course Credit Transfer: Credits earned can be applied toward UH Mānoa degree requirements.
Duration: Programs last for one semester or one academic year.
Financial Aid & Scholarships: Students may apply their existing financial aid and look for NSE-specific funding.
Eligibility: Open to undergraduate students with at least a 2.5 GPA, good academic standing, and at least one semester completed at UH Mānoa.

The UH Mānoa Study Abroad Program (SAP) allows students to study in various international locations while earning UH Mānoa credits. Unlike the Mānoa International Exchange (MIX) Program, where students enroll in partner universities, SAP offers faculty-led and customized study abroad experiences.

Key Features of the Study Abroad Program (SAP):

Locations: Includes countries like Japan, China, France, Spain, Italy, Ireland, England, and more.
Faculty-Led & Customized Programs: Some programs have UH Mānoa faculty teaching abroad, while others place students at foreign universities.
Tuition & Costs: Students pay program-specific costs (tuition, housing, excursions, etc.). Financial aid and scholarships are available.
Duration:
- Semester Programs (Fall or Spring)
- Year-long Programs
- Summer Programs (shorter, intensive study options)
Course Credit Transfer: All courses transfer as UH Mānoa credits and may count toward major/minor requirements.
Cultural Immersion: Programs often include excursions, internships, service-learning, and cultural activities.
Eligibility: Open to undergraduate and graduate students who meet GPA and other program requirements.