The Student Housing Office can assist in finding off-campus housing by providing students with a list of privately owned homes, apartments and rooms in the Hilo area. Many are within walking distance of the main campus. Students are encouraged to apply early for on-campus housing. UH Hilo offers a wide range of activities and services to meet the social, educational, cultural and recreational needs of the student. Students with special interests may participate in campus activities through membership in more than 40 clubs and organizations.
All students are eligible to participate in intramural sports and use athletic facilities.
International students are especially encouraged to participate in the above activities as a means to acquire leadership skills and to build lasting friendships. One of the most active organizations on campus is the International Student Association. This group sponsors monthly social activities and cultural events designed to bring together members of the international and local communities. Two such events are the observance of United Nations Day each fall and the International Nights Festival each spring.