HONOLULU -- The first day of classes in the University of Hawaii system showed a stark new economic reality: classes chopped because of budget cuts, students faced a hard time getting classes they need and long lines at financial aid.

With enrollment at record levels, more financial aid is available.

More and more students are applying for federal financial aid, Pell grants, student loans and state financial aid.

"Well, we've seen a huge increase in the number of students applying for financial aid. This time last year, we've increased over 2,000 applicants have applied this year for financial aid from last year this time," Financial Aid Director Jodie Kuba said.

Available financial aid is up from $18 million last year to $27 million already this year.

Cheerleader Tanner Lyday is on a scholarship, but still needs help.

"Well, just a lot of expenses people don't realize -- all kinds of living expenses that your parents take care of when you're at home, things like that," Lyday said.

At the community college level, particularly Kapiolani Community College, registrations are up 14 percent above its record high.

Classes are full. Hundreds of students may be forced to wait for introductory or prerequisite courses.

The class shortages are caused by budget cuts $45 million in cuts and 150 faculty and instructors have been let go.

"It's like a lot of classes are really full already and I'm on the water polo so I have to watch the time and most times are conflicting with water polo classes. There are not many classes available either," student Leonie Vander Molen said.

Associated Students of the University of Hawaii President Mark Ing actually changed his major because classes are not available.

"Either I'd have to wait another year to graduate or pick up another major and that's what I decided to do," Ing said.