Universal English Academy Kailua-Kona Hawaii
Culture * Nature * Communication * Education * Adventure
The Big Island of Hawaii's Vacation-Study Program
Universal English Academy
75-167 Kalani St Suite 203 Kailua-Kona, Hi 96740
808-325-0227
As this is a recreational Vacation-Study Program a tourist visa is adequate. If your country does not have a visa waiver agreement with the United States please check your country's laws.
◆How do I make payment？
Payment is made in Hawaii at Orientation. We accept cash, Traveler's Checks or Visa / Mastercard. Credit Card payments are subject to Hawaii state tax of 4.166%.
◆Do you have Japanese speaking staff?
Yes we do. Please feel free to contact us in Japanese.
◆Is it possible to extend my stay?
Yes. Additional homestay days are $70 per day and students can stay up to 7 extra days before or after the Program. Unfortunately we do not arrange homestays for non-students.
◆What is the average class size?
Usually 2-3 students per week in our ESL classes, occasionally one, but never more than 6.
◆Can Children participate?
To join our CNC program you must be 18 years old. In the past we have allowed 17 year olds to join the program but there are certain restrictions on activities. We can accommodate families through our private group plan.
◆What is the cancellation policy?
For our CNC program cancellations made 14 days prior to the program start date are serviced at no charge. Cancellation made between 13 and 4 days before the program start date are subject to a 50% charge. Cancellations made within 3 days of the program start date are subjet to the full (100%) charge.
For our longstay program there is no refund within 30 days of the program start date.
◆What do we say to the immigration officer?
Please tell the truth! You are here as a tourist your main purpose is sightseeing. You will homestay with a local family, and join a vacation-study program. Feel free to show the officer your host family introduction sheet with familiy's name and address.
◆What do I need to Bring?
【English】 Notebook, writing instruments, dictionary.
【Dolphin & Snorkeling】 Swimsuit、towel, sunblock. (hat and sunglasses are also recommended)
【Kilauea】 Long Pants, comfortable walking shoes, sunblock, lunch money.
【Hula】 Most students find a dress best for dancing.
【Massage】 Nothing
【Ukulele】 Nothing
【Mauna Kea Tour】 Warm clothes, jacket or fleece, shoes and socks.
【Beach adveture】 Swimsuit, hat/sunglasses, towel, sunblock.
【Surfing】 Swim Suit with board shorts, towel, sunblock.
All gear required for the activities are included in the tour price.
◆Can I stay at a Hotel instead of Homestay?
In our Custom and Forever Young Programs this is an option.
◆What is a good gift for my host family?
Families vary so it is hard to answer. See our homestay advice page for more ideas.
◆What is included in the CNC program?
RT Airport transfer, orientation, English (ESL) class with text, Hawaii homestay with AM-PM meal, all activities with required gear, transportation to and from all program related functions, 24 hour support, and access to our school's conversation lounge.
◆What should I do about my air ticket?
Your air ticket is your responsibility, please shop around as prices vary greatly. Your destination is Kona International Airport (KOA). After your reservation is set please inform us as to your flight arrival time.
◆When is the Homestay decided?
We will let you know within 10 days of the program start date by e-mail.
◆Can I request a certain kind of family?
We hear this question a lot! Except for smoking, pets and other special requirements we are unable to accommodate requests for a "particular" kind of family. Usually there is only one student per host family but occasionally two are placed in the same house. Each student is guaranteed a private room.
◆Can I change or rearrange my schedule?
All changes are processed as Custom Program reservations. If you can't swim or have restrictions on hiking or elevation please let us know and we can substitute activites on a case by case basis.
◆How do I get around?
For all of the program related functions we will arrange transportation. After hours and during free-time you can coordinate with your host family if they are willing or else you must secure your own transportation. We are happy to help you arrange this through our contacts.
◆If I travel with my friend can we homestay together?
We have maybe 2 families that can accommodate friends. If they are available we will try, if not sorry.
◆Do I have time to eat lunch?
Lunches are not included in the program except for the Dolphin/Snorkeling Tour and the Beach Adventure. On the other days you will have 1-3 hours of free time to eat, shop and relax.
◆How far in advance should I apply?
We appreciate advanced reservations. Last minute requests are sometimes difficult to secure reservations or get host families. At the latest 3-4 weeks prior to the start date is best. We will however try our best to accommodate last minute requests.
◆Can I join the program from the middle and not from the weekend?
This happens sometimes and we allow it but please keep in mind that our CNC program has a certain flow, everything building from the day before so you will miss some of the important lessons and may need some catch up time.
◆Can I check my e-mail at the school?
We allow students to use our office computer for brief mail checks only. If you need extended internet time we can recommend some good internet cafes.
Frequently Asked Questions