Study abroad
Study in the Solomon Islands
Explore subjects, study options, costs, intakes, scholarships and student visa information.
About studying in the Solomon Islands
Higher education in the Solomon Islands, an island nation in the South Pacific, gives international students a chance to study in a new academic and cultural setting. Universities and other institutions offer programmes at different levels, from first degrees to postgraduate study, across subjects such as business, engineering, health, science and the humanities.
The economy has strengths in agriculture, conservation and maritime trade, which is reflected in many study options. English is widely used in teaching, which many international students find helpful. Start with the subjects available here, then compare institutions, costs and application steps.
Why study in the Solomon Islands?
There is no single reason to study in the Solomon Islands. For some students it is the programme itself; for others it is the setting in the South Pacific, the language or links to a particular industry. It is worth being clear about what matters most to you before comparing options.
- Academic choice: institutions offer programmes in areas such as Agriculture & Environmental Sciences, Maritime & Shipping and Health, Medicine & Veterinary Studies, with options differing between universities.
- Industry context: Agriculture, conservation and maritime trade matter locally, which can make related courses and projects especially relevant.
- Cities and campus life: Honiara, Auki and Gizo each offer a different student experience, from larger cities to smaller campus towns.
- Culture and language: living in the Solomon Islands means everyday contact with English and local traditions, which many students find valuable in itself.
The University of the South Pacific is a regional university owned by twelve Pacific Island countries, with campuses across the region.
Compare the structure of each programme, how it is assessed and what support is available for international students before you decide.
Top subjects to study in the Solomon Islands
Here are some subject areas that fit well with study in the Solomon Islands. We chose them editorially, with agriculture, conservation and maritime trade in mind, so treat them as ideas rather than a ranking.
- Agriculture & Environmental Sciences
- Maritime & Shipping
- Health, Medicine & Veterinary Studies
- Education, PGCE & Teaching
- Business & Management
- Computing & Information Technology
Courses connected to agriculture, conservation and maritime trade can be a good fit for students who want their studies to relate closely to the local economy. Each subject has its own page for the Solomon Islands on this site, with its specializations.
It helps to look at specializations within each area as well: two programmes with the same broad subject can lead in quite different directions.
Universities in the Solomon Islands
Higher education in the Solomon Islands is provided by a small number of institutions, so it is worth checking which programmes and qualifications each one offers. Institutions include:
- Solomon Islands National University
This is not a ranking or a complete list. Use official university websites to compare course structure, admission criteria, fees and student support, and confirm that the institution and qualification are properly recognised.
Consider class sizes, campus facilities, links with employers and the support offered to international students on arrival, as these shape your day-to-day experience.
Scholarships to Study in the Solomon Islands
If you need financial support to study in the Solomon Islands, it helps to know where funding usually comes from.
- government programmes, including schemes run by your own country or by the Solomon Islands
- universities and colleges, through institutional awards or fee reductions
- foundations, charities and international organisations
- research funding or assistantships for postgraduate and doctoral students
Most scholarships are competitive and have their own eligibility rules, so none can be taken for granted. Read the conditions carefully, apply early and check whether funding covers tuition, living costs or both. Official scholarship providers and university funding pages are the most reliable sources.
Applications often ask for a personal statement, references and academic transcripts, so prepare these early and tailor them to each award.
Intakes to study in the Solomon Islands
The academic year in the Solomon Islands commonly begins around February. Some institutions also admit students around July, although this second intake is usually available for fewer courses. Exact dates vary by institution and programme.
Because deadlines differ between universities, keep a simple timeline for each application: when it opens, when it closes, when decisions are expected and how long the visa process may take. Leave room for delays in obtaining documents.
Postgraduate research programmes may have more flexible start dates, agreed with a supervisor.
A simple planning checklist:
- shortlist courses and note each start date and deadline
- prepare transcripts, references and any language test results
- apply for scholarships alongside your course applications
- allow time for the visa and for arranging accommodation
Intake dates and deadlines vary by university and course. Always check them with the university.
Cost of studying in the Solomon Islands
Tuition in the Solomon Islands varies widely: public and private institutions, subjects and study levels can all have different fees.
When you compare options, look beyond the tuition fee:
- application and registration fees
- course materials, equipment or laboratory costs for some subjects
- health insurance and any visa or permit costs
- accommodation, travel and living expenses for the whole programme
Programme length also matters: a longer course or a preparatory year changes the total cost. Always use the current fees published by the institution for the year you plan to start.
It is also worth asking how and when fees are paid, whether a deposit is required to secure your place, and how exchange rates could affect the amount you pay from home.
Fees change and differ by university, course and level. Check current fees with each university.
Student visa requirements to study in the Solomon Islands
Your offer letter is usually only the first step: most students from abroad also need the right permission to enter and stay in the Solomon Islands for their studies.
Requirements can differ by nationality, programme and length of stay. Depending on the rules, you may be asked for:
- an offer or confirmation of enrolment from a recognised institution
- a valid passport and passport photos
- evidence that you can cover tuition and living costs
- health insurance and, in some cases, medical checks
- proof of language ability or previous qualifications
Visa rules and fees change, so always check the current requirements with official government sources before you apply. The embassy or consulate of the Solomon Islands in your country, and its official immigration authority, are the right places to confirm what applies to you.
Visa rules change. Always check the official government immigration website before you apply.
Cost of living in the Solomon Islands
Planning your living budget for the Solomon Islands early helps you avoid surprises during your first months. Costs in Honiara can differ noticeably from those in Auki or Gizo and smaller towns.
The main costs to plan for are:
- Accommodation: university housing, shared flats or private rentals, plus deposits
- Food: groceries, cooking at home and eating out
- Transport: local travel and occasional trips home
- Utilities and phone: energy, internet and mobile data
- Insurance and health: any required health cover
- Personal spending: study materials, clothing and social life
On islands and in remote areas, imported goods can raise everyday prices. Current cost estimates from your institution and official sources will help you build a realistic budget for the whole course.
Living costs depend on the city and your lifestyle, and they change over time.
FAQs about studying in the Solomon Islands
Is the Solomon Islands a good place to study?
It depends on your goals. The Solomon Islands offers programmes across many subjects, a location in the South Pacific and study in English. Students interested in agriculture, conservation and maritime trade may find the local context especially relevant.
What subjects can I study in the Solomon Islands?
Institutions offer a wide range of subjects, including Agriculture & Environmental Sciences, Maritime & Shipping, Health, Medicine & Veterinary Studies and Education, PGCE & Teaching. The subjects page for the Solomon Islands lists every subject available here with its specializations.
When do courses start in the Solomon Islands?
Many programmes start around February. Apply well ahead of the start date, especially if you need a visa, and check the deadline for each course on the institution’s website.
How much does it cost to study in the Solomon Islands?
Costs depend on the institution, programme, level of study and sometimes your nationality. Budget for tuition as well as application fees, insurance, accommodation and living costs, and use the current fees published by each institution.
Do international students need a visa to study in the Solomon Islands?
Most international students need a student visa or residence permit. Requirements depend on your nationality and programme, so check the current rules with official government sources and the embassy or consulate of the Solomon Islands.
Are scholarships available for international students in the Solomon Islands?
Some funding is available from governments, universities and other organisations, but awards are competitive and eligibility varies. Check official provider websites and apply early.
Which cities are popular with students in the Solomon Islands?
Honiara, Auki and Gizo are among the places students often consider. Living costs, housing and the student experience can differ between cities, so compare them alongside your course options.
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