The University of Hawaii at Manoa has surpassed 20,000 students for the first time since 2013, with preliminary enrollment figures showing 20,012 students, a 4% increase from 2023. This milestone includes a record 3,123 first-time freshmen, marking the third consecutive year with over 3,000 new freshmen. Notable increases in demographic representation include 1,849 freshmen from Hawaii, 489 identifying as Native Hawaiian, and 406 as Filipino. These achievements are attributed to enhanced recruitment efforts and changes to the merit scholarship program aimed at supporting local students. Despite challenges with the FAFSA application process, the university has effectively managed to boost enrollment and retention rates, reflecting its strong educational reputation. The final enrollment figures will be officially announced in early October 2024.