University of Alaska Fairbanks
The Vibe Check
The University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF) feels like an adventurous outpost where students are tough, self-reliant, and deeply connected to the wild landscape. It has a gritty, close-knit community spirit, fueled by the thrill of living on the edge of the Arctic and a shared appreciation for the Northern Lights that light up the campus sky.
Academics & Majors
UAF is a powerhouse for cold-climate research, offering unparalleled opportunities in fields like Arctic engineering, geophysics, and biology. Students benefit from hands-on learning with world-class faculty who are at the forefront of studying the polar regions.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Fairbanks
Student life in Fairbanks revolves around outdoor adventure, including hiking, cross-country skiing, and dog mushing right from campus. The city offers a cozy downtown with local breweries, coffee shops, and a vibrant arts scene that thrives despite the long, cold winters.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($48,866):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
UAF has a generally safe campus environment with a dedicated University Police Department. Fairbanks is a small city with low violent crime rates, though students should be mindful of winter driving conditions and wildlife safety.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Access to cutting-edge Arctic research facilities and programs.
- ✓ Affordable tuition, especially for Alaska residents.
- ✓ Unique outdoor recreation opportunities year-round.
- ✓ Small class sizes and personalized attention from professors.
Cons
- ✗ Remote location can be isolating for some students.
- ✗ Long, harsh winters may not suit everyone.
- ✗ Lower graduation and retention rates compared to national averages.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
UAF is renowned for its leadership in Arctic and Northern studies, including engineering, geophysics, and environmental sciences. It is also known for its unique research facilities like the Large Animal Research Station and its proximity to the Arctic for field studies.
UAF has an open admissions policy, making it accessible to most applicants with a high school diploma or equivalent. With an enrollment of about 4,000 students, it's not highly selective, but applicants should meet basic GPA and test score guidelines for competitive programs.
Campus life at UAF is defined by a strong sense of community and outdoor adventure. Students enjoy a variety of clubs, including outdoor and cultural groups, and participate in events like the World Ice Art Championship or aurora viewing parties.
Yes, especially for in-state students, due to its low tuition and high-value degrees in growing fields like engineering and health professions. The strong alumni network and unique research opportunities can lead to solid career outcomes, with median earnings of $48,866 after 10 years.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Public
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 9,790
- In-State Tuition $8,640
- Out-of-State $22,752
- Zip Code 99775
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an average net price of under $10,000, UAF offers a high-value education, especially for in-state students. The 10-year median earnings of $48,866 provide a solid return on investment for a public university in a rural setting.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.