HONOLULU -- Hawaii students enrolled in universities in the Gulf states are now trying to return home to attend college in the islands.

The University of Hawaii admissions office has been taking calls from families anxious to know if it's too late for their children to enroll for the fall semester.

"So far we've been contacted by five students -- four from Tulane University and one from Loyola University in New Orleans. They are on their way back. It's a difficult time to travel because it's Labor Day weekend, but we will do our best to accommodate them," UH spokesman Jim Manke said.

UH administrators said as a gesture to its sister institutions during the difficult time, it will do what it can to help Hawaii students so they don't fall behind.

"We are already two weeks into our semester. So, we are kind of pushing it at this point. So, if we can get them in here this week, or next week at least, they should be able to maintain their standing," Manke said.

UH said it will offer a tuition-free semester, similar to what other colleges and universities across the nation are doing.

UH isn't the only school fielding calls. Hawaii Pacific University said it's heard from students from the affected areas who are supposed to start class at HPU next week, who called to say they may be delayed.

HPU said it will hold their spots. While some students have indicated they may not have full tuition in hand as a result of the devastating storm, administrators said they will work to help accommodate them.

School Contact Information:

Hawaii Pacific University: (866) CALL-HPU

UH Manoa: (808) 956-8975

UH-Hilo: (800) 897-4456

UH-West Oahu: (866) 299-8656

Kapiolani Community College: (808) 734-9000

Honolulu Community College: (808) 845-9211

Leeward Community College: (808) 455-0642

Windward Community College: (808) 235-7400

Maui Community College: (808) 984-3500

Hawaii Community College: (808) 974-7611

Kauai Community College: (808) 245-8225