Punahou School Photo #3 - The D. Kenneth Richardson `48 Learning Lab is a state-of-the-art design and fabrication design lab and is fully equipped with sophisticated engineering technology, providing opportunities to explore authentic solutions to real-world problems.

Punahou School

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 Stats (2025)

  • Top Ranked HI School
  • Grades: Kindergarten-12
  • Enrollment: 3,724 students
  • Yearly Tuition: $30,480
  • Application Deadline: Oct. 15 / Nov. 15
  • Source: Verified school update

Top Rankings

Punahou School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Hawaii for:

Category
Attribute
Sports offered
School History

School Overview

Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Kindergarten-12
Year Founded
1841
Summer School Offered
Yes
Summer Program Details

Student Body

Total Students
3,724 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
83%
State avg.: 72%
Students by Grade
Punahou School Student By Grade

Academics and Faculty

Total Classroom Teachers
295 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
13:1
National avg.: 13:1
Number of AP Courses
19 courses
List of Courses Offered
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
School Colors
Buff, Blue

Tuition and Acceptance Rate

Admission Deadline
Oct. 15 / Nov. 15
Yearly Tuition Cost
Tuition Notes
2023 – 2024
% on Financial Aid
23%
Average Financial Aid Grant
$11,800
Admissions Director
Maile Uohara

Sports

School Notes

  • For over 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.
Source: Verified school update

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does Punahou School cost?
Punahou School's tuition is approximately $30,480 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.
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 19 interscholastic sports: Baseball, Basketball, Bowling, Cheering, Cross Country, Diving, 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: Largest student body, Most sports offered and Oldest founding date.
When is the application deadline for Punahou School?
The application deadline for Punahou School is Oct. 15 / Nov. 15.
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. Note key dates such as:

Event
Date
Last Day of School (K - 12)
May 29, 2025 (Thursday)

School Reviews

5  
Good school, Came in 7th grade and met so many amazing people.
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Quick Stats (2025)

  • Top Ranked HI School
  • Grades: Kindergarten-12
  • Enrollment: 3,724 students
  • Yearly Tuition: $30,480
  • Application Deadline: Oct. 15 / Nov. 15
  • Source: Verified school update

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Did You Know?

The average private school tuition in Honolulu, HI is $17,029 for elementary schools and $20,168 for high schools (read more about average private school tuition across the country).
The average acceptance rate in Honolulu, HI is 79% (read more about average acceptance rates across the country).

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