Duke Award Scholarship 2026 in USA for Hawaii Students | $15,000 Undergraduate Scholarship
The Duke Award Scholarship 2026 is a prestigious undergraduate scholarship program in the United States created for outstanding high school seniors from Hawai‘i. The scholarship is funded by the Outrigger Duke Kahanamoku Foundation and honors the legacy of legendary Hawaiian athlete and cultural ambassador Duke Kahanamoku.
This scholarship supports students who demonstrate leadership, academic excellence, integrity, community service, and the true spirit of aloha. Selected students receive a one-time scholarship award of $15,000 to help cover higher education expenses at accredited colleges and universities.
Students from all academic backgrounds can apply, making it an excellent opportunity for deserving Hawaii students planning to pursue undergraduate studies in the United States.
Scholarship Overview
| Scholarship Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | Duke Award Scholarship |
| Host Country | United States |
| Funded By | Outrigger Duke Kahanamoku Foundation |
| Degree Level | Undergraduate |
| Scholarship Amount | $15,000 |
| Number of Awards | Varies |
| Eligible Nationality | U.S. Citizens |
| Eligible Applicants | Hawaii High School Seniors |
| Application Deadline | February 1 |
| Study Destination | Accredited U.S. Colleges & Universities |
About the Duke Award Scholarship
The Duke Award Scholarship was established to recognize students who reflect the values and character of Duke Kahanamoku, one of Hawai‘i’s most respected sports legends and cultural icons.
Duke Kahanamoku was an Olympic swimmer, surfer, and ambassador of aloha who inspired people around the world through kindness, humility, leadership, and service to the community. This scholarship continues his legacy by supporting students who show similar qualities in academics, leadership, athletics, and community involvement.
The scholarship not only helps students financially but also encourages young leaders to continue making positive contributions to society.
Scholarship Benefits
Students selected for the Duke Award Scholarship will receive several important benefits, including:
- One-time scholarship award of $15,000
- Financial assistance for tuition and educational expenses
- Recognition for leadership and academic achievements
- Support for undergraduate education goals
- Opportunity to represent the legacy of Duke Kahanamoku
- Increased exposure and recognition within the Hawai‘i community
The scholarship can help reduce the financial burden of college education while supporting students in achieving long-term academic and career goals.
Eligible Degree Programs
The scholarship is available for students pursuing:
- Undergraduate degree programs
- College education in the United States
- Full-time university programs
Available Subjects
Students from all academic disciplines are eligible to apply. The scholarship is not limited to one field of study.
Eligible study areas include:
- Engineering
- Business
- Education
- Health Sciences
- Arts and Humanities
- Social Sciences
- Sports and Athletics
- Science and Technology
- General Academic Programs
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Duke Award Scholarship 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Must be a resident of Hawai‘i
- Must be a graduating high school senior
- Must hold U.S. citizenship
- Must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.5
- Must demonstrate leadership and strong character
- Must show commitment to community service
- Must fulfill Ambassador of Aloha Scholarship standards
- Must be nominated by a school official or athletic official
The scholarship strongly values students who display integrity, kindness, sportsmanship, humility, and dedication to helping others.
Required Documents
Applicants may need to submit the following documents during the application process:
- Completed scholarship application form
- Academic transcripts
- Proof of Hawai‘i residency
- Proof of U.S. citizenship
- Nomination letter from a school or athletic official
- Personal statement or essay
- Recommendation letters
- Additional supporting documents if requested
Students should ensure all documents are complete and submitted before the deadline.
How to Apply for Duke Award Scholarship 2026
Follow these steps to apply for the scholarship:
- Obtain a nomination from your school official or athletic representative.
- Review the eligibility criteria carefully.
- Prepare all academic and personal documents.
- Complete the scholarship application form.
- Submit all required documents before the deadline.
- Wait for scholarship review and final selection results.
Applicants are advised to submit accurate information and apply early to avoid last-minute issues.
Selection Criteria
The scholarship committee evaluates applicants based on:
- Academic performance
- Leadership qualities
- Community involvement
- Character and integrity
- Sportsmanship
- Personal achievements
- Overall application quality
Students who best represent the spirit and values of Duke Kahanamoku are given priority.
Why Apply for the Duke Award Scholarship?
The Duke Award Scholarship is more than just financial support. It is a recognition of leadership, character, and dedication to the community.
Students who receive this scholarship become part of a meaningful legacy connected to Duke Kahanamoku’s values of aloha, humility, and excellence. The scholarship also helps students reduce educational expenses and pursue higher education with greater confidence.
For Hawaii students planning to attend college in the United States, this is an excellent opportunity to gain financial support and national recognition.
Application Deadline
The last date to apply for the Duke Award Scholarship 2027 is:
📅 February 1, 2027
Students are encouraged to complete their applications well before the deadline.