Tuition, Costs and Financial Aid

Tuition

Tuition is determined by the number of credit hours in which the student is enrolled, the level of the courses, and the student’s residency status (see the 2023-2024 tuition table below).

  • Undergraduate students are considered full-time at 12 or more credits.
  • Graduate students are considered full-time at 9 or more credits.
  • Students enrolled in no more than 4 credits per semester pay tuition at the resident rate. **Starting in Spring 2024, The University of Alaska is removing the credit threshold. All nonresident Troth Yeddha' and CTC students will pay the nonresident rate.

2023-2024 Tuition

  Resident Nonresident WUE
Fairbanks Undergraduate F100-F499-courses¹ $289/credit $855/credit $434/credit
Community Campus F100-F299-level courses² $234/credit $800/credit $351/credit
All F600-F799-level courses $539/credit $1105/credit N/A
WUE

Western Undergraduate Exchange; 150% of Alaska resident rate.

1

Applies to Undergraduate courses offered through the Rural College and Fairbanks Troth Yeddha' campus.

2

Applies to F100-F299-level courses offered through the Community and Technical College and Bristol Bay, Chukchi, Interior Alaska, Kuskokwim and Northwest Campuses.

Note: Audited credits are charged at the same rate as other credits.

Resident and Nonresident Tuition

Students eligible for Alaska resident tuition generally include:

  • an Alaska resident, defined as a person who is a U.S. citizen or eligible noncitizen who has been physically present in Alaska for at least the past two years;
  • students who received a State of Alaska Permanent Fund Dividend within the last 12 months and can certify they have been in Alaska for the past 12 months;
  • military personnel on active duty, their spouses and dependent children;
  • members of the National Guard, their spouses and dependent children;
  • veterans of the U.S. armed forces, and their dependents, who are eligible for Veterans Affairs educational benefits;
  • dependent children of a person who graduated and holds an associate, bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral degree from the University of Alaska;
  • dependent children of an Alaska resident as evidenced by the most current federal income tax return filed within the past 16 months;
  • students participating in the Western Interstate Commission on Higher Education Western Regional Graduate Program;
  • students enrolled in 4 or fewer credit hours within the UA system during a semester; **Starting in Spring 2024, The University of Alaska is removing the credit threshold. All nonresident Troth Yeddha' and CTC students will pay the nonresident rate.
  • students from other states or provinces whose public universities waive nonresident tuition surcharges for Alaska residents, or who are from foreign cities and provinces with established Alaska sister city or sister province relationships;
  • students designated by the UA Scholars Program as UA Scholars;
  • participants of the University of Alaska College Savings Plan;
  • spouse or dependent children of a University of Alaska employee; or
  • students who graduated within the past 12 months from a qualified Alaska high school.

Students will be considered nonresident if within two years prior to applying for residency they:

  • were absent from Alaska for an aggregate of more than 120 days for other than documented absences due to illness or attendance at another educational institution while maintaining Alaska residency;
  • committed any act inconsistent with Alaska residency, such as claiming residency in another state or voting as a resident of another state;
  • registered as a resident in an educational institution in another state; or
  • paid tuition at the University of Alaska at the Western Undergraduate Exchange program rate.

To prove physical presence, students must provide documentation of one of the following:

  • student moved household goods to Alaska at least two years ago;
  • student’s lease, rental or ownership of real property in Alaska for at least the prior two years;
  • student’s permanent employment in Alaska for at least the prior two years; or
  • other documentation of Alaska residency for the two prior years deemed satisfactory by the UAF Office of Admissions.

Students applying for resident tuition assessment must file a residency form with the Office of Admissions before the published end of the add/drop period for regular semester-length courses for the semester for which residency is sought. Failure to file and provide adequate proof of physical presence by this date will waive any claim that the student was eligible for resident tuition assessment for that semester or prior semesters unless otherwise determined by the Office of Admissions.

Residency criteria, as paraphrased above, are determined by UA Board of Regents residency policy and regulations. For more information and applications, students should contact the Office of Admissions.

Basic Student Fees

Basic Student Fees  
(per semester unless otherwise indicated)
Fairbanks Campus and Rural Campus Consolidated Fees
UAF, CTC, Juneau Fisheries and eCampus
$53 per credit
CRCD Campuses (Rural College, Bristol Bay, Interior Alaska, Kuskokwim, Northwest, Chukchi)
$21 per credit
UA Facilities $6 per credit
UA Network
4 percent of tuition
varies ($9-$45 per credit)
Parking Permit
8 credits or fewer
$51
9 or more credits
$88
Annual permit
$153
Spring/summer
$153
Multivehicle
additional $10
Course Fees varies

Note: All fees are subject to change.

Consolidated Fee

Cost: $53 per credit for UAF, CTC, Juneau Fisheries and eCampus

The non-refundable consolidated fee provides students access to various services that enhance their educational experience beyond the classroom and ensures the continuation and expansion of critical universitywide services for all students. The consolidated fee paid by each student supports these specific services: student government, student health and counseling center, student recreation center, support for online and distance learning, student sustainability, student activities and services, libraries and digital resources, technology, and transportation and related infrastructure. The consolidated fee is mandatory and cannot be negotiated, waived or reduced.

Cost: $21 per credit for CRCD campuses (Rural College, Bristol Bay, Interior Alaska, Kuskokwim, Northwest, Chukchi) 

The non-refundable consolidated fee provides students access to various services that enhance their educational experience beyond the classroom and ensures the continuation and expansion of critical universitywide services for all students. CRCD campus students are assessed a reduced fee due to their distance from the Fairbanks campus, but they do receive access to UAF services through online or other methods. The consolidated fee paid by each student supports these specific services: telehealth and counseling, virtual recreation classes, streaming of sporting events, libraries and digital resources, and technology. The consolidated fee is mandatory and cannot be negotiated, waived or reduced.

Detailed list of services provided by the consolidated fee:

ASUAF

The Associated Students of the University of Alaska Fairbanks represent student views and concerns to the university administration, University of Alaska Board of Regents and Alaska Legislature. ASUAF also partially funds the publication of the UAF student online newspaper, the Polaris News; the student-managed ASUAF Concert Board; KSUA, the student radio station; and other media. Other services provided through ASUAF include a free half-hour attorney consultation, academic travel funding, subsidized student club activities, regular free coffee service and much more. Contact ASUAF at 907-474-7355 or visit the ASUAF website

Athletics

Provides admission to all home athletic competitions and live-streaming of Nanook sporting events. Admission will only be guaranteed until the start of each event. The fee does not include postseason competition. For further details regarding event and ticket policies, visit the Alaska Nanooks website.

Libraries and Digital Resources 

Provides library services such as research assistance and instruction, online and digital resources, subscriptions for databases and journals, and improvements to library materials and spaces (physical and virtual) used by students.

Recreation

Provides membership to the Student Recreation Center (SRC), Patty ice arena, Patty pool, Outdoor Adventures and virtual recreation classes. The SRC is a comprehensive fitness facility with equipment, courts, track, group fitness, intramurals and a climbing wall. The Patty ice rink provides recreational ice skating sessions. The Patty pool provides lap swim sessions. Outdoor Adventures has discounted equipment rentals, trips and an outdoor rock/ice wall. Some extra programs have additional fees associated; consult Nanook Recreation staff for details. Anyone under the age of 18 using the SRC and its facilities must be accompanied by a parent or guardian whose minimum age is 21 unless they are a full-time UAF student. Call 907-474-5886 for more information.

Student Activities and Services

Supports Nanook traditions such as Starvation Gulch, Winter Carnival and SpringFest as well as student activities and student life programs that enhance the out-of-class experience of students, and will provide ongoing operational and capital funding for programs. 

Student Health and Counseling Center

Provides basic medical and counseling services, including telehealth and counseling, at the Student Health and Counseling Center on the Fairbanks campus. See the Student Health and Counseling Center website for more information or contact the Student Health and Counseling Center at 907-474-7043.

Student Sustainability

Invests in energy-efficiency programs and renewable energy projects at UAF.

Summer Activity 

Supports student activities.

ECampus

Funds go toward academic and advising support, online student resources, exam proctoring services, technology upgrades, and enhancements to course delivery.

Technology

Supports technology initiatives including implementation of and access to UAF's wireless network, delivering university-licensed software to all students, increasing the number of technology-enabled classrooms and computing spaces, and expanding and improving online and self-service environments. 

Transportation and Related Infrastructure

Covers a portion of the costs of operating shuttle buses that provide transportation throughout campus and to various university facilities off campus, street and lot maintenance, snow removal, lighting and plug-ins.

UA Facilities Fee

Cost: $6 per credit

Who pays: All students

What's covered: The UA facilities fee is assessed to all undergraduate and graduate students to address the capital reinvestment for university facilities and academic equipment. Capital reinvestment funds construction that modernizes university classrooms, laboratories, residence halls and other buildings so students have learning and living facilities that enhance the academic experience.

UA Network Fee

Cost: 4 percent of tuition

Troth Yeddha' Undergraduate: $12
Community Campus: $9 per credit
Graduate: $22 per credit
Nonresident rate: $32 per Community Campus credit
Nonresident rate: $35 per Troth Yeddha' Undergraduate credit
Nonresident rate: $45 per graduate credit

Who pays: All students

What's covered: The UA network charge covers rapidly rising costs, especially in the maintenance and enhancement of the universitywide technology infrastructure. The 4 percent network charge is applied on a per credit hour basis (rounded to the nearest dollar) to tuition, nonresident surcharges if applicable, and fees in lieu of tuition for credit and noncredit courses. The minimum network charge per course is $9. 

Course Fees

Cost: Varies

Who pays: Students enrolled in courses with special fees. See the class schedule for individual classes

What’s covered: Some courses require special equipment, supplies or services and charge a materials fee in addition to tuition.

Health Insurance

Student health insurance is not mandatory at UAF except for international students studying in F-1 or J-1 immigration statuses. The university does not provide a student health insurance program except for international students and students who are contracted with the Graduate School as teaching or research assistants on stipends or who are receiving graduate fellowships. Students without insurance who would like to obtain a plan may visit the Student Health and Counseling Center website for more information on shopping for a policy.

International students in F-1 or J-1 status are required to enroll in either the UAF-sponsored insurance plan or in a plan of their choice that meets regulatory compliance rules. Students must provide documentation of enrollment to International Programs and Initiatives before the fee payment deadline each semester. Students who do not enroll in an insurance plan approved by International Programs and Initiatives by the appropriate semester deadline will be dropped from classes at UAF.

Contracted teaching and research assistants on stipends and those receiving graduate fellowships are automatically enrolled in the UAF-sponsored plan as part of their benefits package. More information on this plan can be found at the Graduate School's website.

The UAF-sponsored international student plan meets the Department of State insurance requirements for exchange visitors in J-1 status. However, this plan is not compliant with the federal Affordable Care Act (ACA). Contact International Programs and Initiatives with any questions. The graduate insurance plan is ACA-compliant but does not meet the Department of State insurance requirements for exchange visitors in J-1 status.

Parking Permit

Cost: Fall 2023/spring 2024, single vehicle, $51 for 8 or fewer credits; $88 for 9 or more credits; $153 annual permit. With any of these permit options, two or more vehicles (up to a total of four) may be registered for the multivehicle option for an additional $10. The hangtag allows one vehicle to be parked on campus at a time. (Campus residents may not purchase the multivehicle option. Employees are not eligible to purchase parking permits at student rates.)

Costs are based on the combined total credit hour enrollment at UAF, Community and Technical College, eCampus, or any class held at a UAF location where credit is given through another location.

Who pays: Students who park a vehicle at any on- or off-campus UA, UAF or Community and Technical College location are required to have a parking permit or permit displayed on the vehicle at all times, including evenings.

What's covered: Parking in permit-required and general-use lots and spaces at any on- or off-campus UA, UAF, or Community and Technical College location in Fairbanks

How to get a permit: Request a permit through UAF's online parking system. Select the type of parking permit(s) needed, the delivery option and the payment method. A two-week temporary permit can immediately be printed to use until the permit arrives in the mail or is picked up. Permits can also be purchased and picked up at the Bursar's Office in Signers' Hall. Please bring a current vehicle registration to ensure the correct information for the file. Debit and credit card payments will no longer be accepted in person or over the phone at the Bursar's Office. In-person, please pay with either cash or check, or have the charge added to the student's Banner account.

How to pay: Complete the permit purchase at UAF's online parking system. Payment options are all major credit cards or "student account," if parking has been added to the student account.

It is the responsibility of all students parking a vehicle on any UAF property (on or off campus) to know UAF parking regulations. For more information, call 474-7384 or email uaf-bursar@alaska.edu.

Estimated 2023-2024 UAF Annual Costs

UAF Community and Technical College Students

  Alaska Resident Non-Resident WUE2
Tuition and fees3 (30 credits, F100-F299-level classes) $9,260 $27,290 $13,280
Housing and food (double room and meal plan) $10,450 $10,450 $10,450
ANNUAL TOTAL $19,710 $37,740 $23,730

UAF Undergraduate Students, Four-Year Programs at Troth Yeddha' Campus

  Alaska Resident Non-Resident WUE2
Tuition and fees3 (30 credits, F100-F499-level classes) $10,970 $29,000 $15,020
Housing and food (double room and meal plan) $10,450 $10,450 $10,450
ANNUAL TOTAL $21,420 $39,450 $25,470

UAF Graduate Students

  Alaska Resident Non-Resident WUE2
Tuition and fees3 (18 credits, F600-F799-level classes) $12,398 $23,000
Housing and food (double room and meal plan) $10,450 $10,450
ANNUAL TOTAL $22,848 $33,450

Note: All fees are subject to change. 

Other Fees

Other Fees  
(per use unless otherwise indicated)
Application for Admission
Certificate or associate degree
$40
Baccalaureate
$50 ($25 late fee)
Graduate
$75 ($25 late fee)
Application for Graduation $50 ($30 late fee)
Campus Housing
Residence halls (per semester)
$2,550-$4,2331
Fairbanks campus employees, family, and graduate housing
$1,173-$1,821 per month2
Kuskokwim Campus housing
Contact campus
Campus Mail Box
Semester
$75
Summer Only
$30
Credit by Examination $40/credit
Credit Card Transaction 2.95 percent ($3 minimum)
Credit for Prior Learning $50 plus $10/credit
Duplicate Tuition/Fees Receipt $5/copy
Graduate Student Reinstatement $50
Late Add/Late Registration $50
Late Payment Fees $50; $125, $175
Late Placement Test or Guidance Test $5
Meal Plans (per semester) $610-$2,695
New Student Orientation (Fairbanks area)
Fall
$150
Spring
$35
Payment Plan $65
Records Duplication $0.25/page
Reinstatement Fee $100
Residence Life Programming Fee $25
Returned Check Fee $30
Textbooks (approximate) $250-$1,100/semester
Transcripts
Electronic, $12; paper, $15
$12-$15
Expedited paper
$30
Unofficial
$5
UAF CBSM Tuition Surcharge 25 percent of tuition ($72-$135/credit)3
UAF CEM Tuition Surchage 20 percent of tuition ($58-$108)
1

Plus one-time application fee of $40

2

Plus one-time application fee of $75 and a refundable $600 damage deposit

3

Only applies to upper-division (F300-F499) and graduate-level courses

Note: All fees are subject to change.

Application for Admission

Cost: $40-$75 (add $25 if late)

Who pays: Applicants to certificate and associate degree programs are charged $40; applicants to baccalaureate programs $50; applicants to graduate programs, $75. There is a $25 late fee charged for all baccalaureate and graduate program applications submitted after the published deadlines.

What's covered: Assessment and processing of prospective student applications

Application for Graduation

Cost: $50 (add $30 if late)

Who pays: Students planning to graduate in a given semester must apply for graduation. Early applications are encouraged and can be submitted the semester before expected graduation. Application deadlines are Oct. 15 for fall, Feb. 1 for spring and June 15 for summer graduation.

What’s covered: Credit check, degree requirement audit and certification of eligibility to graduate

Campus Housing

For complete rate information, please go to the Residence Life website.

Residence Life Programming Fee

Cost: $25 per semester

Who pays: Residential students and employees

What's covered: Fee revenues will be used to modernize the student experience by better serving university residents by providing sustainable funding for community councils and the Residence Hall Association.

How to apply: Send the completed application and application fee to the UAF Department of Residence Life. Applications are available online. Room rent and meal plan fees, along with all other fees, are due in full by fee payment end. Information about Residence Life is available at 907-474-7247uaf-housing@alaska.edu or on the Residence Life website

Kuskokwim Campus Housing

For information about campus housing at the Kuskokwim Campus in Bethel, visit the Kuskokwim Campus website or call 907-543-4562.

Campus Mailbox

Cost: $75 per box per semester, $30 summer only. Limited numbers of larger boxes are available for an additional cost.

Who pays: Students who wish to receive U.S. Postal Service mail on campus must rent a campus mailbox at the Campus Mail Center in Constitution Hall. USPS mail is delivered on campus to post office boxes only, not to street addresses. The fee can be paid at UAOnline or at the Bursar’s Office in Signers’ Hall. Fees renew automatically each semester until the rental agreement is canceled and keys are returned.

What’s covered: Mailbox space, postal and mail forwarding services

Credit by Examination

Cost: $40 per credit hour

Who pays: Students using the credit-by-exam option for earning UAF course credit

What’s covered: The fee pays for coordinating the exam or other evaluation requirements between student and professor, grade recording and transcription.

Credit Card Transaction Fee

Cost: 2.95 percent ($3 minimum)

Who pays: Anyone making credit or debit card payments via UAOnline. Note: credit and debit card payments are not accepted in person, by mail, or over the phone.

What’s covered: Fees charged by credit card companies. Note: The university does not receive any of this fee.

Credit for Prior Learning

Cost: $50 fee payment plus $10/credit hour for credits earned

Who pays: Students using the credit-for-prior-learning option to earn UAF course credits

What’s covered: The fee pays for the portfolio or license/certificate review by faculty evaluation committee. If credit is awarded, the fee per credit hour earned pays for grade recording and transcription.

Graduate Student Reinstatement

Cost: $50

Who pays: Graduate students who do not meet registration requirements and fail to file an approved leave of absence may request reinstatement from the dean of the Graduate School and will be charged $50.

What’s covered: Reinstatement processing

Late Add/Late Registration

Cost: $50

Who pays: Students given permission to add a class after the last day to pay tuition and fees will be charged a late registration fee of $50 that must be paid within five business days. This includes drop/add (swap) courses. No late fee will be charged when a student:

  • adds a late-start course during the regular registration period for that course, or
  • is moved into a class for which they were waitlisted, or
  • is changed from one section to a different section of the same course, or
  • adds graduate thesis or research credits, or
  • adds a course to replace a canceled course in which they were previously enrolled, or
  • is moved to a lower or higher level of a course (e.g., MATH F151X to MATH F105) due to the instructor’s recommendation.

This fee is refundable only if all classes for which a student is registered are canceled. See the Registration Guide for the procedure for adding a class.

What’s covered: Processing of late registration

Late Payment Fees

Cost: $125 for first; $175 for second; $50 per month for late payment plan payments

Who pays: All students who have missed the fee payment deadline and have a balance of $500 or more. An additional $175 fee will be added to accounts not paid by the withdrawal deadline.

What’s covered: Processing of late payments

Late Placement Test or Guidance Test

Cost: $5

Who pays: Students who take a placement or guidance test outside of scheduled testing sessions

What’s covered: Test oversight, administration and recording

Meal Plans

Cost: $850-$3,095

Who pays: All students living in residence halls and Cutler Apartments are required to purchase a meal plan, with the exception of graduate students. UAF also offers meal plans to commuter students, including residents of family housing and students living off campus.  Students who do not live on campus but are interested in purchasing a meal plan can contact Dining Services at 907-474-6661 or uaf-dining@alaska.edu.  Please review the dining contract for more details.  All prices are per semester. 

What’s covered (per semester): See Dining Services page for details of specific meal plans and how to purchase plans.

Note: The Wood Center food court is closed for campus holidays. Dining locations are limited during UAF winter and spring breaks.

New Student Orientation

Cost: $150 for fall semester, covers all programs except special Outdoor Adventures activities; $10 for one-day fall transfer student orientation, and $25 (plus $10 for each additional guest) for two-day fall family orientation. $35 for spring orientation.

Who pays: Any new student may participate in New Student Orientation on the Fairbanks campus. NSO is required for all first-time bachelor’s degree students (regardless of the number of earned college credits) and international students (undergraduate F-1 and international exchange J-1 status). Domestic transfer students are also encouraged to attend.

What’s covered: All materials, sessions, general entertainment and meals not included in student meal plans

Payment Plan

Cost: $65 depending on when a student signs up. Discount only applies to online enrollment via UAOnline.

Who pays: Students unable to pay all tuition and fees at the beginning of a semester

What’s covered: Budgeting by distributing the costs of tuition and fees across two or more payment dates. See the Bursar's Office website for more information.

Records Duplication

Cost: $0.25 per page

Who pays: Anyone who requests copies of their own academic records

What’s covered: Copies of records in a student's academic file in the Office of the Registrar (except transcripts from another school). Students need to submit a written request for copies. The Office of the Registrar provides document copies as time permits. All copies provided through this service are stamped “unofficial.”

Reinstatement Fee

Cost: $100

Who pays: Students dropped from classes due to nonpayment will be charged $100 to have classes reinstated

What’s covered: Reinstatement processing

Returned Check Fee

Cost: $30

Who pays: If a check is returned for any reason, a hold will be placed on the student’s account which will prevent the student from registering, viewing grades, participating in graduation activities and receiving transcripts until the check clears and a $30 fee is paid.

What’s covered: Processing returned checks

Textbooks

Cost: Varies according to course load. A student can expect to pay about $250-$1,100 per semester for textbooks. The cost for books averages about $90-$115 per course.

Who pays: Students in classes with required texts

What’s covered: Texts, assigned readings or other course materials assigned by instructors

Transcripts

Cost: $12-$30

Electronic = $12
Paper = $15
Expedited paper = $30

Who pays: Anyone who requests their own transcripts from the Office of the Registrar

What’s covered:

  • Official transcripts can be issued electronically (secure PDF delivery to an email address) or on special transcript paper in a sealed envelope sent by U.S. mail. Official transcript requests are handled by Parchment (accessible via UAOnline) and by the Office of the Registrar. Electronic transcripts can be delivered within minutes of the request as long as there are no holds on the student account. Processing time for paper transcripts is normally three to five business days. Transcript requests are processed as they are received and cannot be held for grades or degrees.
  • Unofficial transcripts are accessible via UAOnline.

UAF CBSM Tuition Surcharge

Cost: 25 percent of tuition ($72-$135/credit)

Who pays: Students enrolled in upper-level and graduate courses in College of Business and Security Management departments. Please note: Tuition waivers do not cover tuition surcharges. 

UAF CEM Tuition Surcharge

Cost: 20 percent of tuition ($58-$108/credit)

Who pays: Students enrolled in lower-level, upper-level, and graduate courses in the College of Engineering and Mines departments. Please note: Tuition waivers do not cover tuition surcharges. 

Paying Tuition and Fees

Students are not considered registered for any classes until all tuition and fees are paid or other payment arrangements have been made by the fee payment deadline. Please note that the payment due dates may vary if a student is taking classes from multiple campuses. This includes room rent, meal plan costs, student activity fees, health fees and deposits. Any charges unpaid at the end of the previous semester are also due and must be paid before they can re-enroll. If a student owes money to the university and submits an enrollment form and payment for the current semester, they will not be enrolled in the requested classes; instead, the payment will be applied toward the outstanding balance.

Other than tuition and fees, which are due according to every semester’s payment schedule, any charges owed to the university are due within 30 days.

A $30 charge and a hold will be placed on the account for returned checks. This will prevent a student from registering, viewing grades, receiving transcripts and graduation activities.

Consequences of Not Paying

Failure to pay in full or make other payment arrangements by the fee payment deadline may result in the cancellation of a student's class schedule. UAF may withhold transcripts, grades and other services, and cancel meal plans and housing if financial obligations are unmet. If the university takes such action, the student will still be responsible for the account balance in full.

Registration may be withheld from any student who is delinquent in paying any amount due to the university. The registration process is not complete until the student has paid all fees and charges due. UAF may drop a student from courses after the fee payment deadline if a balance is owed to the university. A $100 reinstatement fee will be charged to re-enroll in any dropped courses.

Failure to Meet Financial Obligations

University policy requires a financial hold to be placed on a student's account if they fail to meet financial obligations. The hold will prevent any registration, transcript or graduation activity.

Past-due accounts will be sent to a collection agency. Interest, late fees and/or collection costs will be added to the student's account. Past-due balances may be reported to a local credit bureau. The university is authorized to garnish Alaska Permanent Fund Dividends for payment of past-due accounts.

Tuition Waivers

Note: Tuition waivers do not cover tuition surcharges.

  • Senior Citizen Tuition Waiver

    UA Board of Regents policy waives regular tuition for Alaska residents at the age of eligibility for full Social Security retirement benefits. A student is eligible to use the senior citizen tuition waiver and enroll in UAF courses if:

    • the student is a permanent resident of Alaska;
    • the student is age-eligible to receive full Social Security retirement benefits; and
    • there is space (i.e., no waitlist) in the class or classes desired.

If using a senior tuition waiver, a student may not register until the first day of instruction of the semester. Both age and residency requirements must be met by one of the following dates to be eligible for the corresponding semester: Sept. 1 for fall; Jan. 1 for spring; May 1 for summer. Reimbursements will not be made to senior citizens who pay for a course and then request a waiver.

  • Employee Tuition Waiver

    Employee tuition waivers pay only for tuition. Tuition waiver forms must be turned in by the fee payment deadline. The employee is responsible for all other fees. Employees who pay for a course and later become eligible for a waiver will not be reimbursed. Late fees and payment deadlines apply. More information is available at the Bursar's Office website.

Refunds

Tuition and Fees

Students may drop courses in UAOnline or submit an add/drop form to the Office of the Registrar per published deadlines in the academic calendar. The following conditions apply:

  • If UAF cancels a course, students’ tuition and fees will be refunded in full.
  • Refund processing is automatic for students who officially drop courses by the refund deadlines.
  • It is the responsibility of each student to review their course dates and be aware of the published refund deadlines for their particular courses.
  • The first day of instruction for full-semester courses is the first day of instruction listed in the academic calendar.
  • Full semester courses (fall and spring): 100% of tuition and course fees are automatically refunded when the drop is completed by the second Friday of the semester.
  • Courses meeting at least four weeks but less than the full semester: Students may drop within five business days of the first class meeting (as listed in UAOnline) to receive 100% refund of tuition and fees.
  • Courses meeting less than four weeks: Students may drop on the first day the class meets (as listed in UAOnline).
  • Summer courses: Please refer to the academic calendar for summer registration and fee payment deadlines.

Refund Processing

Financial aid will start to be disbursed to student accounts 10 days before the first day of class, and the Bursar’s Office will begin processing refunds at that time. Submit an Advance of Funding if funds are needed for books and supplies.  Refund processing is automatic for students who officially drop courses by the published refund deadlines. Remember to return parking permits if dropped during the 100 percent refund time.

All refunds are processed electronically or by mail. The Bursar’s Office does not issue refund checks for amounts less than $10. It is the student's responsibility to check their account and contact the Bursar’s Office to receive a refund as cash or to apply it to the student's PolarExpress card as a nonrefundable payment.

If tuition and fees are paid for the semester by credit card, the credit card will be refunded (up to the amount paid).  Any remaining credit balances will be refunded by check or direct deposit.

If tuition was paid through external sources such as financial aid, federal loans, scholarships or grants, refunds will be received as a check sent to the mailing address of record or direct deposited in the student's bank account.

Once processed by the Bursar’s Office, direct deposit takes three to five business days to disburse to a bank account.  Check refunds will take at least 10 business days to be received in the mail.

Refunds are subject to federal regulations. Refunds due to dropped classes or a total withdrawal may disqualify a student to receive scholarships or financial aid. In that case, the funds may be returned to the lender or grantor pursuant to all applicable rules and regulations.

If paid by cash or check, a refund check will be sent to the mailing address of record or direct deposited in the student's bank account. If the Bursar’s Office is notified that a check is not received due to an incorrect address, a fee of $18.50 will be charged for all checks reissued due to a stop-pay request by the student. Please be sure UAOnline reflects the current mailing address.

If tuition and fees were paid by check, refund processing will begin after all checks have cleared the bank.

Any balance owed to the university will be deducted from the student's refund.

Students who drop during the 100 percent refund period and want to maintain health insurance coverage should contact the Student Health and Counseling Center at 907-474-7043.

Direct Deposit of Refunds

Enrolling in direct deposit allows refunds to be electronically deposited into the student's bank account. It’s simple, safe and convenient. Enrollment is available through our secure self-service website. Sign up for direct deposit through UAOnline by following these steps:

  • At the “Student Services & Accounting Information” menu select the “Direct Deposit Enrollment” link.
  • Select “1st time setup of direct deposit”
  • Select the account type
  • Enter the bank routing code
  • Enter account number
  • Re-enter account number
  • Select “Submit”

Exception to Policy: Appeal for Refund of Tuition

Appeals for a refund of tuition are exceptions to policy and are only approved in events that are unanticipated and unavoidable. Approval is not automatic, and documented evidence needs to be provided to support requests (physician’s note, letters of support from instructors, etc.). Acceptable unanticipated and unavoidable reasons may include:

  • death in the immediate family;
  • serious illness or injury of the student or immediate family member; and
  • factors outside of the student’s control (e.g., fire, flood).

Work-related issues, personal hardships, changing one's mind about college, poor academic performance, disciplinary withdrawal, not receiving expected financial assistance or failure to read UAF’s published documents are considered to be the result of personal choices and actions and will not be considered.

Appeals for refund of tuition must be submitted within 30 class days after the beginning of the next regular semester. Forms for an appeal for refund of tuition are available online, through the Bursar’s Office in Signers’ Hall on the Fairbanks campus or at CTC. Once received, the appeal will be evaluated by a campuswide committee which will return a decision to the student. The decision of the committee is final, and a student who files a written appeal under these procedures shall be expected to abide by the final disposition of the review, as provided, and may not seek further appeal of the matter under any other procedure within the university. Submission of appeals and appropriate documentation after published deadlines will not be considered. Contact the Bursar’s Office for more information.

Housing

Students who move off campus or withdraw from the university will receive room refunds according to the schedule on their housing agreement.

Any refund of room charges will be based upon the housing agreement.

Meals

Please refer to the meal plan agreement for specific information about meal plan refunds.

Where To Get More Information

Office of the Bursar
University of Alaska Fairbanks
130 Signers’ Hall
P.O. Box 757640
Fairbanks, AK 99775-7640
Email: uaf-bursar@alaska.edu
Telephone: 907-474-7384
Fax: 907-474-5898

What Is Financial Aid

Most students will need financial aid to help pay for the cost of attending college. Financial aid in the form of scholarships, grants, loans and employment is available at UAF to eligible students who need assistance to attend school.

Financial aid can be used to help pay for tuition, fees, books, supplies and living expenses such as housing and food.

The Financial Aid Office provides counseling and information to students and parents and administers a comprehensive program of financial assistance. Specific information regarding financial aid programs at UAF is on the Financial Aid website. The Financial Aid Office is in 107 Eielson. Contact Financial Aid at 907-474-7256, toll-free at 888-474-7256 or at uaf-financialaid@alaska.edu.

Who Receives Financial Aid

To receive financial aid a student must:

  1. Be admitted to a financial aid-eligible certificate or degree program at UAF;
  2. Be a U.S. citizen or eligible noncitizen (F-1 and J-1 students are not eligible for state or federal financial aid, but may apply for University of Alaska Foundation or UAF privately funded scholarships, and graduate fellowships or assistantships);
  3. Have a valid social security number;
  4. Be making satisfactory academic progress as defined by the Financial Aid Office policy (policies and forms are available online);
  5. Not be in default on any federal education loan and not owe a refund because of overpayment of a previous federal grant or loan at any college or university;
  6. Have earned a high school diploma, GED or equivalent.

How to Apply for Financial Aid

The forms to apply for federal, state and UAF financial aid programs are available at the Financial Aid Office or Financial Aid website.

All students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid to be considered for grants, scholarships, loans and work-study.

FAFSA forms may be completed at the FAFSA website. The earliest date students may begin completing the form is Oct. 1.

The priority application deadline for UAF is Feb. 15. If a student misses the deadline, they may still apply for financial aid, but they might not be eligible for institutional scholarships.

Important Financial Aid Dates

  • Oct 1
    Apply for federal aid with the Free Application for Federal Financial Aid. It is best to apply well before the time the students will need financial aid.
  • February
    Apply for admission to UAF. Financial aid cannot be processed for students who have not been admitted to a UAF degree or certificate program.
  • Feb. 15
    UAF scholarship application is due. This application includes three short essays, which may be revised at any time, so applicants should start early. Apply online.
  • May to July
    Federal student loan borrowers should complete federal loan promissory note and entrance counseling online. Processing time is approximately one week. If sent to UAF in time, loans will be disbursed 10 days before the first day of class each semester.
  • June 1 for fall; Oct. 15 for spring
    Deadline for admission to graduate programs, with all supporting documentation, transcripts and test scores.
  • June 15
    Deadline for undergraduate admission to UAF for the fall semester. This is an absolute MUST. UAF cannot process financial aid for students who have not been admitted. Application for fall Nanook Pledge and Nanook Commitment scholarships due (included in the Application for Admission).

Costs of Attending UAF

The information in the Estimated UAF Living Expenses table below for a typical full-time undergraduate student for the school year will help estimate the total cost of attending UAF:

Estimated UAF Living Expenses

  Single student living alone off campus Single student living in UAF residence hall
Tuition and fees1 $10,970 $10,970
Books, supplies $2,000 $2,000
Housing and Food 2 $12,750 $10,450
Transportation $1,000 $1,000
Misc./personal $2,500 $2,500
TOTAL $29,220 $26,920
1

Estimate includes undergraduate Alaska resident tuition costs. Includes consolidated, UA facilities and UA network fees. Does not include specific course fees, health insurance, books, supplies, parking, travel or special costs associated with international or exchange students. Add $16,980 for nonresident tuition. Costs are subject to change.

2

Double room and meal plan

Standard budgets do not always fit everyone. Financial Aid staff will try to provide methods of covering unusual expenses such as medical bills, special child care or emergency items. Since eligibility is based on prior income, a student may request a review of their eligibility if their income changes from loss of job, divorce, death or disability.

How Eligibility Is Determined

After the FAFSA is filed, the Financial Aid Office receives an Institutional Student Aid Record from the U.S. Department of Education. The information on this form is used to determine a student’s eligibility for financial aid at UAF.

Once the office has received this report, students will receive an email either requesting more information (such as copies of income tax forms, proof of citizenship, etc.) or a financial aid offer notice detailing the student's eligibility for financial aid. This information is also available via UAOnline. Students should respond to requests for more information promptly to avoid delays.

The total amount of financial aid awarded will be based on the FAFSA results and the student’s cost of attendance.

Scholarships, Grants and Tuition Waivers

Grants are usually based on financial need, whereas scholarship awards are based on academic achievement as well as financial need. These types of aid do not have to be repaid. Most grants and scholarships are designed for undergraduate students.

  • Nanook Pledge Scholarship
    The Nanook Pledge is a four-year merit scholarship for incoming first-year, transfer and readmitted students at UAF. Awards range from $1,000 to $12,000 per year and are based on high school GPA, test scores, tuition rate and transfer GPA. Students must be admitted to a UAF baccalaureate program and enrolled full time to be eligible for the Nanook Pledge Scholarship. The Nanook Pledge is available for up to four years for continuous enrollment at UAF.
  • Nanook Commitment Scholarship
    The Nanook Commitment is a four-year need-based scholarship for incoming first-year, transfer and readmitted students at UAF. Awards are based on high school or transfer GPA, tuition rate and need as determined by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Students must be admitted to a UAF baccalaureate program and enrolled full time to be eligible for the Nanook Commitment Scholarship. The Nanook Commitment is available for up to four years for continuous enrollment at UAF. 
  • University of Alaska Scholars Program
    UA Scholars are exceptional graduates of Alaska high schools who are offered a unique opportunity to attend the University of Alaska with a $12,000 scholarship paid over eight semesters at $1,500/semester. The UA Scholars Program encourages Alaska’s high school graduates to pursue their advanced education in the 49th state. Alaska high schools designate the top 10% of the junior class at the end of their junior year for the UA Scholars Award. UA Scholars may use their awards at any of the UA system campuses. The award may also be applied to the costs of qualified student exchange programs. Contact the UA Scholars coordinator at the Office of Admissions at 907-474-7500 or 800-478-1823.
  • Alaska Performance Scholarship
    The Alaska Performance Scholarship is available to Alaska residents who graduated from an Alaska high school (public, private or home school) in 2011 or later. Students must complete high school, achieve a high school GPA of at least 2.5, earn a minimum score on a college or career readiness test, enroll at least half time, remain in good standing and have qualifying education costs remaining after using all other non-loan aid. Students can receive up to eight semesters of award with three maximum annual award levels of up to $2,378, $3,566 and $4,755. To qualify, students must complete the FAFSA by June 30. For more information, visit the Alaska Performance Scholarship website or call 800-441-2962.
  • UAF Privately Funded Scholarships
    Several hundred privately funded scholarships are available to all prospective and current students in a variety of academic majors. Students may apply online. New and prospective students must also apply for admission to UAF to be considered for scholarships. For more information contact the Office of Financial Aid at 907-474-6228 or 888-474-7256.
  • University of Alaska Foundation Scholarships
    Scholarships are available for students attending any campus in the UA system. Applications are submitted online. The deadline is Feb. 15. For information, call 907-450-8033 or visit the University of Alaska Foundation website.
  • Army ROTC Scholarships
    The U.S. Army awards four-year scholarships to high school students based on nationwide competitions. Students may use these scholarships to attend the university of their choice, provided that the university is also host to an Army ROTC program. The UAF Army ROTC program supports campus-based competition for two-, three- and four-year scholarships for qualified UAF students. These scholarships may be used for undergraduate or graduate programs. Army ROTC scholarships pay UAF tuition and mandatory fees, $900 annually for books and supplies, and a monthly stipend for living expenses ranging from $300-$500 depending on the length of the scholarship.
    For more information about the Army scholarship program, eligibility requirements and the application process, contact the Department of Military Science at 907-474-6852 or email uaf-army-rotc-dept@alaska.edu.
  • Bureau of Indian Affairs and Native Corporation Scholarships
    The federal Bureau of Indian Affairs offers grants to undergraduate full-time students. Applicants must be at least one-quarter American Indian or Alaska Native. These grants supplement other financial aid and are based on financial need. Grants range from $50-$3,000 or more each year. The average grant at UAF is $1,600. More information on BIA grants can be obtained from the BIA Regional Office, 1675 C Street, Anchorage, AK, 99501-5198, or by telephone at 907-271-4115.
    Some regional and village corporations provide scholarships to shareholders. Contact local corporations for details on eligibility and application procedures.
  • Pell Grant
    The federal Pell Grant is a need-based grant available to undergraduate students to help pay college costs. Since this grant is based on financial need, students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. A federal processor will send applicants a student aid report indicating whether they qualify. Federal Pell Grants award up to $7,395 for the 2023-2024 academic year.
  • Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant
    This grant is for exceptionally needy undergraduate students. Award amounts range from $500-$1,000 each year.
  • Alaska Education Grant
    The AlaskAdvantage need-based grant is awarded to Alaska residents attending Alaska institutions. Priority is given to students pursuing degrees in Alaska workforce priority programs (such as allied health, social and community services, or teaching) or who have an ACT score of 25 or higher or SAT score of 1180 or higher. Part-time awards range from $500-$1,000 per academic year. Full-time awards range from $1,000-$4,000 per academic year.
  • Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) 
    UAF participates in the Western Undergraduate Exchange administered by the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education. Only new undergraduate degree applicants claiming residency in Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oregon, South Dakota, Utah, Washington or Wyoming are considered for WUE, which reduces nonresident tuition to 1.5 times the resident tuition rate. WUE applicants must submit an application for admission and clearly mark their interest in WUE on the form. Priority deadline for reviewing WUE applications is Feb. 15. For more information, contact the Office of Admissions at 800-478-1823907-474-7500, or through the Office of Admissions website.
    Note: Students attending any campus of the University of Alaska system under the Western Undergraduate Exchange program are assumed to be receiving the benefit of reduced tuition because of their residency in a partner state. Therefore, time spent in WUE does not count toward the time required to establish residency in Alaska for tuition purposes. If students end their participation in WUE, they could begin establishing residency for tuition purposes as set forth in the resident and nonresident tuition policy.

Graduate Assistantships

Students must be admitted to a graduate program to receive an assistantship. Research and teaching assistantships are awarded to qualified graduate students by each department or program. For application information, contact the department or program directly. For more information, see Graduate Assistantships.

Fellowships are available through the University of Alaska Foundation, the Graduate School and private organizations. A limited number of these awards are granted each year, and the amounts vary. For information, contact the UA Foundation at 907-474-7687, the Graduate School at 907-474-7464, or visit the Graduate School website.

Loans

Loans represent a major source of assistance as a student tries to meet the full costs of their education. Educational loans generally have long-term repayment schedules and offer low interest rates. They often have provisions for deferring payments and may offer more benefits related to financial needs.

Any student who borrows money for college should understand the specific conditions and requirements regarding disbursements, deferments and repayment options. Students who fail to meet the conditions of the satisfactory academic progress policy may be denied all federal aid.

UAF participates in the Federal Student Loan Program. The Federal Stafford Loan provides loans from the federal government. The program offers subsidized and unsubsidized loans. Subsidized loans are for students who have a financial need; the government makes interest payments on the loan while the student is in school, in grace period or in deferment. Unsubsidized loans are those for which interest accrues while in school. A student may receive subsidized federal loans for up to 150% of their program’s published length. If a student exceeds this time frame, their loans will lose the interest subsidy and interest will begin to accrue on those loans. Loan repayment calculations are available on the program website.

Students must be enrolled in at least 6 credits to qualify for a state or federal loan. Yearly limits for dependent students are $5,500 for first-year students, $6,500 for second-year students and $7,500 for upper-level undergraduates. Independent students may borrow, including the subsidized federal loan, up to $9,500 as first-year students, $10,500 as second-year students and $12,500 as third- or fourth-year students. Graduate students may borrow $20,500. The interest rate varies annually and is capped at 8.25%.

The Federal Parent Loan for Undergraduate Students is a program for parents of dependent students. The cost of attending UAF determines the annual loan limits. A variable interest rate or finance charge, not to exceed 9%, is determined each year for the federal PLUS programs.

Student Employment

Campus jobs help many UAF students pay college costs. Many student positions are available across UAF campuses, as well as the University of Alaska statewide system offices in Fairbanks. More than 1,000 students are employed in these jobs. Full-time student status is not required unless specified by a department. However, students who are less than full-time are subject to FICA withholding, and departments that hire part-time student employees are subject to the applicable benefit rate charge.

Student employees may work up to 20 hours each week while classes are in session and up to 40 hours when classes are not in session. Pay rates are based on the job classification. The average pay varies from $300-$500 each month. Since there is no “pool” for workers, students apply directly to the departments with position vacancies. Job announcements and information on how to apply for positions are available from Human Resources, 907-474-7700, or at the Careers at UA website.

The Federal Work Study program provides jobs for graduate and undergraduate students with financial needs. Job placement and working conditions are similar to regular student employment. To qualify for FWS, students must be eligible for federal financial aid as determined based on information provided on the required FAFSA.

Veteran Services

The UAF Department of Military and Veteran Services monitors the educational progress and status of veterans who attend UAF using VA educational benefits. They also help veterans, service members and eligible dependents with the paperwork needed to begin and continue certification under the various GI Bill® benefits. If a student qualifies and wishes to use their benefits, they must be fully admitted to UAF and in a state-approved degree or certificate program. A complete list of benefit programs is available on the DMVS website. If a student is unsure whether if they are entitled to GI Bill benefits, contact the Department of Veterans Affairs in Muskogee, Oklahoma, at 888-442-4551 (888 GI BILL 1) or through the Department of Veterans Affairs website. Specific questions regarding veteran readiness should be directed to the Fairbanks Vet Center, 540 Fourth Ave., Suite 100, Fairbanks, AK 99701, or call 907-456-4238.

Because the Department of Veterans Affairs processes benefit payments as a reimbursement, the student should initiate their VA paperwork 60-90 days before classes start. They can apply for veteran benefits online. They can request certification of their UAF VA educational benefits at the DMVS website, or visit their office location, call 907-474-7400 or email uaf-va@alaska.edu.

GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government website.

Remaining Eligible for Aid

Students receiving financial aid are required to maintain satisfactory academic progress. Undergraduate students must satisfactorily complete a minimum of 67% of the total credits attempted each year and have a cumulative grade point average of 2.00 (3.00 for graduate students).

Students may appeal the suspension of aid. Appeals must be in writing and must state the reasons for failure to maintain satisfactory standards of progress, as well as the steps the student will take to meet those standards in the future. Appeals should be directed to the Financial Aid Office, which will determine if the requirements for satisfactory academic progress will be waived. Academic progress requirements are subject to changes in federal or state law and institutional policy. A complete description is available at the Financial Aid Office.

Payment to the Student

Disbursement of financial aid is usually in equal amounts by semester. Students are given half the total award at the beginning of each semester. Tuition, fees and all other amounts due to UAF at the time financial aid is released to the student must be paid before the balance of aid is released to the student.

All financial aid checks, as well as checks from outside organizations (such as Native corporations, clubs, etc.), are initially credited to the student’s account to pay for any debt owed to the university. Any balance remaining is refunded to the student in accordance with the university’s refund policy. Students who receive federal financial aid and totally withdraw from classes during a semester may have to pay back a portion of the federal financial aid received for that semester. The amount to be repaid is based on the number of class days attended before withdrawal compared to the total days in the semester and the amount of federal aid received. If the withdrawing student is entitled to a refund of tuition and fee charges, all or part of the refund may be returned to the federal financial aid programs. The amount of a refund, repayment or return of federal financial aid is based on U.S. Department of Education regulations concerning the return of federal financial aid. Any refund or repayment calculation exceeding the amount of refund determined by university policy will be charged to the student. Financial aid recipients are strongly encouraged to speak with the Financial Aid Office about the potential impacts of withdrawing from courses.

Rights and Responsibilities of Accepting Financial Aid

As a financial aid recipient at UAF, students have the right to:

  1. Know what financial programs are available.
  2. Know how to apply, how eligibility is determined and what terms and conditions are related to a student's aid.
  3. Know how the university determines whether a student is making satisfactory academic progress toward a degree and what happens if a student is not making such progress.
  4. Request an explanation of the student's financial aid package, including what portion is a gift and what portion must be repaid and the terms of repayment.
  5. Know the costs of attending UAF and the refund policy for students who withdraw.

For continued receipt of financial aid, a student must:

  1. Complete and file all financial aid forms accurately and on time.
  2. Read and understand all documents signed. Students should also keep copies for their records.
  3. Know the limits and conditions of financial aid programs.
  4. Notify the Financial Aid Office of any change of address, name, marital status, attendance status or receipt of additional financial awards.

Where to Get More Information

Office of Financial Aid
University of Alaska Fairbanks
107 Eielson Building
P.O. Box 756360
Fairbanks, AK 99775-6360
Email: uaf-financialaid@alaska.edu
Telephone: 907-474-7256
Toll-free: 888-474-7256