Punahou School in Honolulu, Hawai`i, is an independent, coeducational day school with a student body of approximately 3,770 from kindergarten through grade 12.
The exceptional breadth and diversity of opportunities distinguishes the Punahou experience, allowing students to explore and develop their own interests and passions, building confidence and independence, and preparing each child for a future that is uniquely successful.
Punahou`s student body reflects the varied socio-economic levels and ethnicities of Hawai`i.
Our students exhibit a wide range of abilities, interests and talents, all contributing to a dynamic and diverse School community.
Quick Facts (2025-26)
- Top Ranked HI School
- Grades: Kindergarten-12
- Enrollment: 3,724 students
- Yearly Tuition: $32,930
- Acceptance rate: 25%
- Average class size: 15 students
- Application Deadline: Oct. 1 / Nov. 1
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
Punahou School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Hawaii for:
Category
Attribute
Acceptance Rate
Student Body
AP Courses
Sports offered
School History
School Overview
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Kindergarten-12
Year Founded
1841
Colors
Buff, Blue
Summer School Offered
Yes
Summer Program Details
Last Day of School
Mon. May 25, 2026
Student Body
Total Students
3,724 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
83%
State avg.: 72%
Students by Grade

Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
295 teachers
Student-Teacher Ratio
13:1
National avg.: 13:1
Average Class Size
15 students
Number of AP Courses
19 courses
List of Courses Offered
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
Oct. 1 / Nov. 1
Yearly Tuition Cost
$32,930
Tuition Notes
2025 – 2026
% on Financial Aid
23%
Average Financial Aid Grant
$12,600
Acceptance Rate
25%
National avg.: 81%
College Acceptance Rate
100%
Admissions Director
Maile Uohara
Application URL
Sports
Total Sports Offered
23 sports
School Notes
- For more than 180 years, Punahou School has educated students to become the next generation of leaders and innovators. Through world-class academic and co-curricular programs from kindergarten through grade 12, we encourage students to cultivate their interests and talents, aim for their highest potential and become positive forces in the world. As one of the country's largest independent schools, with an enrollment that exceeds 3,700, we foster a well-rounded education that extends throughout one`s lifetime.
- Our teachers and administrators distinguish themselves not only with their educational credentials and experience, but with their commitment and dedication to students and the School. The Punahou community, which includes students and their families, faculty and staff, alumni and others, has long been a force, united by their collective support for the School.
- In recent years, Punahou has rebuilt or renovated a significant part of itscampus to offer cutting-edge, reimagined learning environments. These thoughtfully planned, technologically advanced and highly sustainable facilities offer indoor and outdoor spaces that allow students to develop skills necessary to thrive in the 21st century.
- Punahou`s primary mission is to shape students into educated, capable and giving people who have the knowledge and skills to succeed in college, and ultimately contribute to the world. While Punahou remains committed to its longstanding excellence in core subjects such as math, English and science, the School also prepares students for the changing world and careers of the future by teaching students at all grade levels how to be adaptable, creative, collaborative and innovative.
- Sample of notable school alumni/alumnae:
- Barack Obama, U.S. President, Class of 1979 -
- Michelle Obama, Former First Lady, Class of 1981 -
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Punahou School cost?
Punahou School's tuition is approximately $32,930 for private students.
What schools are Punahou School often compared to?
Punahou School is often viewed alongside schools like Iolani School by visitors of our site.
What is the acceptance rate of Punahou School?
The acceptance rate of Punahou School is 25%, which is lower than the national average of 77%. Punahou School's acceptance rate is ranked among the top private schools in Hawaii with low acceptance rates.
Who are famous alumni from Punahou School?
Punahou School famous alumni include: Barack Obama, U.S. President, Class of 1979 and Michelle Obama, Former First Lady, Class of 1981.
Does Punahou School offer a summer program?
Yes, Punahou School offers a summer program. Visit their summer school page for more information.
What sports does Punahou School offer?
Punahou School offers 23 interscholastic sports: Ballet, Baseball, Basketball, Bowling, Cheering, Cross Country, Dance, Diving, E-sports, Flag Football, Football, Golf, Kayaking, Riflery, Sailing, Soccer, Softball, Swimming, Tennis, Track and Field, Volleyball, Water Polo and Wrestling. Punahou School is ranked as one of the top 20% of private schools in Hawaii for most sports offered.
What is Punahou School's ranking?
Punahou School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Hawaii for: Lowest average acceptance rates, Largest student body, Most AP courses offered, Most sports offered and Oldest founding date.
When is the application deadline for Punahou School?
The application deadline for Punahou School is Oct. 1 / Nov. 1.
In what neighborhood is Punahou School located?
Punahou School is located in the Manoa neighborhood of Honolulu, HI. There are 2 other private schools located in Manoa.
School Calendar
View the Punahou School yearly calendar below.
School Reviews
5 4/26/2024
Good school, Came in 7th grade and met so many amazing people.
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