Scholarship Programs
Early Childhood Education Scholarships
The PATCH Scholarship program allows you to increase your knowledge in current developmentally appropriate practices and increases the number of people entering the early care and education profession.
Funded by the Department of Human Services, PATCH scholarships provide reimbursement for early childhood specific college courses*, PACE workshops (converted to college credits) or assessment fees for obtaining or renewing a CDA credential.
Maximum amount awarded is $750 per round (3 rounds per year: August, January, May). Limited funds are distributed on a first come, first serve basis. Priority is given to those currently employed in a licensed Child Care Facility or operating a registered family child care home. Applicants must live in Hawaii.
Tuition reimbursements
Tuition reimbursements are distributed after the close of each round (see priorities section on the application for more information). Tuition scholarships do not cover books, student fees, technical online fees, etc. Scholarship awards are dependent upon fund availability.
What is the criteria for coursework?
Successful passing of college level courses in early childhood education,
conversion of PACE classes to college credits, and/or award of a CDA
credential.
- College courses must be ECE focused and completed June 2026 to May 2027
- PACE classes converted to college credits transcripts for Fall 2026 and/or Spring 2027 semesters
- CDA Credential must be dated on or after June 2026 through May 2027
- Applicants must reside in the State of Hawaii
- Courses can be taken from Non-Hawaii Based Colleges (Priorities 1-4 only)
- Scholarships are priority based, see application for more information
Application Deadlines:
1st ROUND: August 31st
2nd ROUND: January 15th
3rd ROUND: May 31st
Other Scholarship Opportunities
- Hawaii Community Foundation
- UH Financial Aid Offices
- Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA)
- University of Hawaii SEED program
- Cash For Caring funded by Hawaii Island United Way for Hawaii Island Residents
- Cash For Caring Maui County Application for Maui County Residents
- Early Childhood Educator Stipend Program