decorative divider

 

Western Undergraduate
Exchange at UAF

Get to know the program that reduces your tuition
when you attend from a nearby western state.

 

Live and Learn in Alaska With Reduced Tuition

When it comes to creativity, rigorous academics and the great outdoors, UAF is unmatched. We welcome you to live and learn with us among the world’s greatest and most dynamic landscapes in the heart of Alaska. Just minutes from our charming downtown and miles of hiking trails, the Troth Yeddha' Campus in ²ÊÉñix¹ÙÍø provides the perfect spot for students looking for something new.

The Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE)  is a program that allows students from nearby western states to attend a university for significantly reduced tuition. UAF offers reduced WUE tuition to any undergraduate or transfer student coming from a qualifying U.S. state — studying any major!

Launch Your UAF Application

WUE Savings at UAF

While nonresident students  are typically subject to tuition rates of roughly $29,000 per year, students coming to UAF from a WUE state pay about $16,000 per year. In other words, you could save nearly 40% on your UAF tuition as a nonresident with WUE. These savings are much too good to pass up — see your savings and other costs on the tuition and fees page.

See Savings With WUE

How to Apply for WUE

 

Step One: Check Your Eligibility

First, check the list below to see if your state is one that belongs to the WUE program.

Step Two: Apply

Simply select "yes" when you get to the WUE section of your application. UAF will use your transcript to confirm that you graduated from high school in a WUE state. Then you're set!

Step Three: Save Big!

Upon admission and acceptance to WUE, reap the rewards of your tuition savings and get ready for orientation!

 

What's the catch? If you choose to receive the WUE tuition rate, time spent receiving that rate doesn’t count toward establishing residency in Alaska. Some students choose not to opt in to WUE and pay nonresident tuition for their first full year, and then after residing in Alaska for one full year, apply for the Alaska resident tuition rate. Keep in mind that retaining Alaskan residency has its own requirements, too. Depending on your plans, this may be a more financially beneficial option for you. If you're not sure which option is right for you, reach out to your UAF admissions counselor for some guidance.

 

Already Applied for Admission?

If you applied via the Common App, Summit Seeker Application, Match 360 or if you didn't select "Yes" to WUE on the UAF Application, you can still apply for WUE. Complete the WUE application form below and email it to uaf-admissions@alaska.edu.

Apply for WUE After Admission

 

 

Qualifying WUE States

Undergraduate students who are residents of these states can qualify for WUE:

  • Alaska
  • Arizona
  • California
  • Colorado
  • Guam
  • Hawaii
  • Idaho
  • Montana
  • Nevada
  • New Mexico
  • North Dakota
  • Oregon
  • South Dakota
  • Utah
  • Washington
  • Wyoming
  • Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas (CNMI)

Note: Recipients of the WUE tuition rate receive reduced tuition because of their residency in a partner state. Therefore, time spent using WUE does not count toward the time needed to establish residency in Alaska for tuition purposes.

Map of WUE eligible states

 

 

Explore Life at UAF

Can't see the images? Consider disabling your adblocker.

 

 

What Awaits You in Alaska?

 

A group of three individuals is climbing a steep, grassy slope in a mountainous landscape. The terrain is rugged, with patches of snow visible on the peaks in the background.

Beauty, Right in Your Backyard

UAF's Troth Yeddha' Campus in ²ÊÉñix¹ÙÍø is home to 2,250 acres of largely forested land open to students.

A group of women in traditional attire stands together outside at the ²ÊÉñix¹ÙÍø. They are posing playfully, showcasing their colorful clothing, which includes intricate patterns and vibrant colors.

Strong Indigenous Community

Alaska Native culture is active and present on UAF's campus thanks to the College of Indigenous Studies, Rural Student Services and many more communities.

A research vessel is navigating through calm waters, with its vibrant red and blue hull contrasting against the serene backdrop of snow-capped mountains. The landscape showcases a clear sky with subtle tones of light, emphasizing the natural beauty of the environment.

World-Class Research Opportunities

Get involved in exciting research projects ranging from the study of our oceans to the observation of our vast solar system.

 

Our campus awaits critical thinkers and creative leaders just like you to join us right here in ²ÊÉñix¹ÙÍø. Get to know our research facilities, residence halls and student spirit by taking the virtual tour below.

Take the Virtual Tour

 

WUE — Frequently Asked Questions

WUE is not a scholarship. Rather, it’s a program that offers reduced tuition to full-time nonresident students from qualifying states. WICHE sets the WUE tuition rate at 1.5x resident tuition, which is well under the standard non-resident rate. You must maintain good academic standing while attending the university to receive WUE. Reach out to our admissions team (uaf-admissions@alaska.edu) to learn more details about the ongoing requirements for students receiving WUE.

If you already applied using the Common App, Summit Seeker Application, Match 360 or if you didn't select "Yes" to WUE on the UAF Application, you can still apply for WUE. Complete the WUE application form found on this page and email it to uaf-admissions@alaska.edu. Reach out to your admissions counselor with any questions.

If you're applying using UAF's application page, then no you don't need to apply separately for WUE. Simply select "yes" when you get to the WUE section of your application. UAF will use your transcript to confirm that you graduated from high school in a WUE state.

If you apply using the Common App or another application, then you'll need to complete the WUE application form found on this page and email it to uaf-admissions@alaska.edu. Reach out to your admissions counselor with any questions.

 

 

Additional Questions?

Send your questions and concerns our way. We'll help you with your application and connect you to campus resources.

Reach out to an Admissions Counselor

 

 

 

Additional Admission Resources

 

The scene captures a vibrant admission area at a university. A group of individuals is gathered around an information desk. In the background, a large blue wall mural outlines the campus locations in Alaska, stating, 'Welcome to Troth Yeddha' You belong here.'

How to Apply for Admission

Head over to the admissions page for more details on how, when and where to apply.

Go to Admissions Page
A student sits comfortably in a modern lounge area, working on a laptop. The individual is wearing a green shirt and an orange cap, with yellow Crocs on their feet.

Financial Aid & Planning for College

Keep exploring financial aid resources available to you on UAF's financial aid website.

Financial Aid Support