The Hukilau program is a work-study program sponsored by BYU–Hawaii. The purpose of the Hukilau Program is a work-story at BYU–Hawaii is to provide financial support to qualified students, enabling them to graduate without debt and be well-prepared to serve and lead in their families, communities, chosen fields, and in building the Kingdom of God. The program is based on the principle of self-reliance, where students take on personal responsibility and accountability by working and contributing a portion of their own educational costs.
A student participating in the Hukilau Program works for 19 hours a week at BYU–Hawaii or the Polynesian Cultural Center. A portion of the income from that job is contributed to pay the student’s tuition and fees, housing, and meal plan. An additional contribution, determined by assessment of financial need, is provided by the student and their family. The remaining costs for schooling are covered by funds from BYU–Hawaii.