- ・What are the nationalities of the students at Hawaii Palms English School?
- ・When is the application deadline?
- ・Can I enroll after the start of a program?
- ・I'm a beginner; is that OK?
- ・Can we use computers at school?
- ・I can't decide where to stay -- Dormitory, Homestay, or Condominium
- ・I'm interested in the Homestay program, but I'm a little nervous about staying with a host family
- ・How do you match students with their host families?
As with most other schools in Hawaii, we have a high percentage of Japanese students at Hawaii Palms. However, we have students from all around the globe. We have an "ENGLISH ONLY" policy at the school, which prevents students from speaking their native languages and encourages them to practice English at all times.
The application deadline is two weeks before the start of your course. However, since our classes are small (we limit the number of students to 8), we recommend that you enroll as early as possible in order to guarantee your spot. If you miss the registration deadline, however, contact us immediately to see if there are any last-minute vacancies. If you wish us to help you find accommodation, we recommend that you enroll 2-3 months before the start of your course.
Yes, you can. Our curriculum is designed to accept students any time. Our classes and teachers are so warm and welcoming, you won't feel as if you've missed out on any lessons.
We have lots of students who are beginners. Students of all levels, ages, and nationalities come to Hawaii Palms to practice and improve their English in a short period of time. Our cozy environment, friendly and helpful staff, and experienced teachers make sure you feel as comfortable as possible so you can focus on improving your English fast.
Yes. We have a computer at the school that all students can use. Also, we have a wireless environment (Hotspost), so you can bring your laptop and connect to the internet for free.
Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages. The staff at Hawaii Palms is more than happy to advise and answer any of your questions, but the ultimate decision will depend on your wants and needs.
Our Homestay Program provides more than just room and board. Staying with a host family offers you the opportunity to immerse yourself in a different culture, while learning about Hawaiian family customs in a clean, warm, comfortable, and safe (English-speaking) home environment. Our Homestay Program includes 2 meals a day as well as your own private bedroom.
Staying in a condominium is convenient. All condominiums are located in Waikiki and are within a 15-minute walk from the school.
All potential host families are visited and interviewed by a school representative in their homes. Only families that can provide a clean, safe environment are asked to join our program. Our host families have a lot of experience hosting international students.
Most students feel a bit nervous in the beginning, but once they get to know their host family members and start to share cultural experiences with them, all inhibitions melt away. Soon, our students begin to think of their host families as an extension of their own families. Most of the students who come back to study with us request that we place them with the same host family.
We are as thorough as possible when matching students with their host families. We take into account students' allergies, smoking habits, and dietary preferences before deciding on a family. All host families live within an hour bus ride from Waikiki. About a month before classes start, we provide students with their host family's address, telephone number, and additional family information.
