The PolarExpress card is the official UAF photo identification card used by students, staff and faculty to access UAF facilities and make purchases. The card includes your name, photograph and UA identification number. A central database holds information to identify the buildings and rooms you may access, meal plan type, some account balances, library checkouts, computer lab access and other activities. See the complete list on the Office of the Bursar's website.

Your PolarExpress card lets you check out library books, vote in student elections, and gives you access to the Student Health and Counseling Center and other student services. The card's magnetic stripe holds a unique key that provides secure access to residence halls, laboratories and the Student Recreation Center. You can deposit money into your Bear Bucks account, which can be used at all Dining Services locations, photocopiers, vending machines and the UAF Bookstore. The PolarExpress card is a permanent card, valid for two years after the holder's last affiliation with the university. All privileges expire upon departure from the university, with the exception of Bear Bucks and Munch Money accounts. Bear Bucks expire two years after your last affiliation, and Munch Money accounts expire at the end of the academic year with the ability to roll over up to $250 per semester. Holders who return to the university system within two years and no longer have their PolarExpress card must purchase a replacement card. 

You can access your account balance and add money to your PolarExpress card through eAccounts, a secure way to check all your stored value accounts (Bear Bucks, Munch Money, copy card, etc.), add money to your card, view your transaction history, deactivate a lost or stolen card and more.