Alaska State Scholarships, Grants & Tuition Help

🎓 Alaska State Scholarships, Grants & Tuition Help

Not many people realize that Alaska actually offers one of the most generous merit-based scholarships in the country—but it’s tied to high school GPA and test scores, and the money only goes to kids who stay in-state.

If you’re a parent hoping to help your son or daughter go to college affordably in Alaska, this page will walk you through every major aid option: who qualifies, how much it helps, and what to do next.

🎓 Alaska Performance Scholarship (APS)

This is Alaska’s flagship merit-based scholarship. It’s based on GPA, test scores (ACT/SAT/WorkKeys), and high school curriculum rigor.

Level	Award (max/year)	GPA	Test Scores	Curriculum
Level 1	$4,755	3.5+	ACT 25 / SAT 1210 / WorkKeys 13	Most rigorous
Level 2	$3,566	3.0+	ACT 23 / SAT 1130 / WorkKeys 12	Rigorous
Level 3	$2,378	2.5+	ACT 21 / SAT 1060 / WorkKeys 10	Minimum rigor

Note: WorkKeys is an alternate test option mainly used for career/technical program applicants. Most college-bound students will qualify using ACT or SAT scores.

✅ The money can be used at any eligible Alaska college, university, or approved career training center. Must be a resident and file the FAFSA.

📌 Even though FAFSA deadlines are in June, apply as early as possible
Many schools award aid on a first-come, first-served basis—so don’t wait until summer to file.

💸 Alaska Education Grant (AEG)

This is a need-based state grant, awarded automatically based on your FAFSA info. You don’t need a separate application.

Family Income Range	Award
Low income	$1,500–$4,000
Middle income	$500–$1,500

📌 You must be a full-time student at an eligible Alaska college or vocational program.

✅ Even if your household makes more than $100K, your child may still qualify for APS based on grades and test scores.
Don’t skip the FAFSA—grants, work-study, and school-based aid still rely on it.

🏅 UA Scholars Award (Automatic)

This is a $12,000 merit award automatically given to the top 10% of students from each eligible Alaska high school. It can be used at any University of Alaska campus (UAA, UAF, or UAS).

💰 $1,500 per semester (up to 8 semesters)
🧾 No application required — the high school nominates students based on GPA
📬 Families are notified in the fall of senior year

🎉 One of the easiest full-value scholarships in Alaska.
If your kid is in the top 10% of their class and stays in-state, this award is practically guaranteed. It stacks with the APS and other aid.

📚 Other Programs & Tuition Help

🎓 Alaska Advantage Loan Forgiveness (Career-Based)

If your child takes out a state education loan and later works in Alaska (especially in high-need fields like teaching or healthcare), a portion of their loan may be forgiven.

Learn more: acpe.alaska.gov

Going Out-of-State?
Families in Alaska may qualify for reduced tuition through the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE). This program lets students attend public colleges in other Western states at a discounted rate.

📝 What To Do Next

✅ File the FAFSA early, even if you think you won’t qualify for much
✅ Talk to your child’s school counselor about APS eligibility and course tracking
✅ Compare in-state options (UAA, UAF, UAS) using APS and AEG estimates
✅ Check if your kid meets GPA/test score requirements for Regents, UA Scholars, or WUE schools

🏫 Alaska Public Universities (Coming Soon)

💬 Frequently Asked Questions

Does Alaska use superscores for APS eligibility?

No. APS requires your child’s highest single test score—not a mix of best sections from multiple test dates.

What counts as a “rigorous” high school curriculum?

It includes 4 years of English, 3–4 years of math and science, and advanced electives like foreign language or AP courses. Ask your school counselor to confirm your child’s track.

Can my kid use APS for a trade program or certificate?

Yes—if it’s an eligible program through an approved Alaska training center. It’s not just for four-year colleges.

What if we move out of Alaska?

Your child must be a legal resident of Alaska when graduating from high school and starting college to keep APS. WUE may still offer tuition discounts if they leave the state.

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