How Alaska college aid works
If you live in Alaska, the state runs its own college aid on top of federal aid. The one to know is the Alaska Performance Scholarship and AK Education Grant, run by the Alaska Commission on Postsecondary Education. Here is what it is, who qualifies, when to apply, and how it fits with the FAFSA.
Alaska's state aid programs
Alaska's flagship state aid is the Alaska Performance Scholarship. It also offers the AK Education Grant, administered by the Alaska Commission on Postsecondary Education.
How and when to apply
FAFSA by June 30; Performance Scholarship tracks HS curriculum/GPA.
The FAFSA is the master form. Filing it early puts a student in line for federal Pell grants and work-study, and it starts most state and college aid too. Some state funds are first come, first served, so it is safer to file the week the FAFSA opens than to wait.
Lowering out-of-state tuition
As a Alaska resident, you may also qualify for the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE): Western residents pay at most ~150% of in-state tuition at participating public colleges in other WUE states. Participation varies by campus and major, so check the official program list.
See the money you qualify for, free
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Start a free planCommon questions about Alaska college aid
What is Alaska's main state financial aid program?
Alaska's flagship state aid is the Alaska Performance Scholarship and AK Education Grant, administered by the Alaska Commission on Postsecondary Education.
When do you apply for Alaska college aid?
FAFSA by June 30; Performance Scholarship tracks HS curriculum/GPA. Exact dates shift every year, so confirm the current cycle on the Alaska Commission on Postsecondary Education site before you file.
Do you need the FAFSA for Alaska state aid?
Yes. Filing the FAFSA (or your state's alternative application) is what starts your Alaska state grant, and it also unlocks federal Pell grants and work-study. File it as early as you can.
State aid details verified as of July 5, 2026. Dates shift each cycle, so always confirm the current deadline on the official Alaska Commission on Postsecondary Education site.