University of Alaska Fairbanks

Arctic Innovation. Global Impact.

📍 Fairbanks, United States 🇺🇸

🏆 #144 in United States · QS World #901 · THE World #601 · ARWU #801

Quick Facts about University of Alaska Fairbanks

  • Founded: 1917
  • Type: Public
  • Students: 6,640
  • International: 3%
  • Campus: Multiple Campuses
  • Tuition: $28,470 – $36,270/year
  • Language: English
  • Student-Faculty Ratio: 11:1
  • Intakes: January, August, May

About University of Alaska Fairbanks

The University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF) is a land, sea, and space-grant institution located in Fairbanks, Alaska. Established in 1917, UAF offers a unique educational experience in the heart of the Arctic, attracting students from around the world to its diverse academic programs and research opportunities. The university is known for its strong sense of community and its commitment to addressing global challenges through research and education.

Academics

UAF offers over 190 degree programs, ranging from undergraduate to doctoral levels, across approximately 100 disciplines. Key faculties include the College of Engineering and Mines, College of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences, College of Natural Science and Mathematics, and the College of Indigenous Studies. The university is particularly recognized for its research in Arctic science, climate change, geophysics, and natural resource management, leveraging its unique geographic and cultural setting for specialized programs in Arctic biology, geophysics, and Indigenous studies. UAF emphasizes hands-on learning and research, with nearly half of its bachelor's degree recipients completing a research, thesis, or honors project.

International Students

International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) at UAF provides comprehensive support for international students, assisting with visa processing, immigration regulations, housing, and cultural adjustment. While federal financial aid is generally not available to international students, they may be eligible for University of Alaska Foundation and privately funded scholarships. International students make up approximately 2-7% of the student body, with students from at least 35 countries represented on campus. UAF also offers English language support programs to enhance academic proficiency for non-native speakers.

Campus & Location

The UAF campus is situated in Fairbanks, Alaska, offering a unique environment with views of the Alaskan wilderness. The city of Fairbanks provides a blend of modern facilities and access to nature, allowing students to engage in outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, dog sledding, and viewing the Northern Lights. On campus, students can explore attractions such as the University of Alaska Museum of the North, the Georgeson Botanical Garden, and the Geophysical Institute. UAF provides shuttle bus services on campus, and the Fairbanks North Star Borough operates a metropolitan bus system with a stop near the Wood Center.

Career Outcomes

UAF Career Services offers professional advice, guidance, and networking opportunities for students and alumni, including career counseling, major exploration, and job/internship search assistance. They also host career fairs and provide resources like Handshake, a career management platform for job postings and events. Graduates from UAF pursue diverse fields, with strong earning potential in engineering disciplines such as Civil, Mechanical, and Electrical Engineering. The employment rate for UAF graduates one year after graduation is 91%, and 89% after five years.

Information for International Students at University of Alaska Fairbanks

University of Alaska Fairbanks in Fairbanks, United States welcomes international students, with 3% of the student body coming from abroad.

  • 3% of students are international
  • Visa support available
  • No on-campus work
  • Student housing available (~$900/month)
  • Work placement / internship opportunities available
  • Teaching languages: English

Admissions Requirements for University of Alaska Fairbanks

Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to University of Alaska Fairbanks:

  • IELTS minimum: 6.5
  • TOEFL minimum: 79
  • Duolingo minimum: 110
  • GPA minimum: 3
  • Application fee: $50
  • Selectivity: Moderate (40-60%)
  • Application deadline: May 1 (Fall undergraduate), September 1 (Spring undergraduate), March 1 (Fall international graduate), September 1 (Spring international graduate)

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Scholarships & Tuition at University of Alaska Fairbanks

Annual tuition for international students: $28,470 – $36,270/year

✅ University of Alaska Fairbanks offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.

Rankings of University of Alaska Fairbanks

  • National Ranking: #144 in United States
  • QS World University Ranking: #901
  • Times Higher Education (THE): #601
  • Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU): #801
  • Ranking tier: Research University
  • Research output: High

Campus & Facilities at University of Alaska Fairbanks

  • Student housing available
  • Sports facilities available
  • Disability support available
  • Campus type: Multiple Campuses
  • Housing cost: ~$900/month

Key Highlights

  • Arctic research powerhouse
  • Unique Arctic location
  • Indigenous studies leader
  • Hands-on learning, research focus
  • Diverse academic programs

Accreditation

  • Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
  • Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
  • Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET
  • Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET
  • Council on Social Work Education

Notable Alumni

  • Jewel Kilcher
  • Hilary Lindh
  • Lance Mackey
  • Syun-Ichi Akasofu
  • Tom Albanese

Frequently Asked Questions about University of Alaska Fairbanks

What is University of Alaska Fairbanks?

University of Alaska Fairbanks is a public university located in Fairbanks, United States, founded in 1917. It has approximately 6,640 students, with 3% being international students.

How much does it cost to study at University of Alaska Fairbanks?

Tuition fees at University of Alaska Fairbanks for international students range from $28,470 – $36,270/year. Student housing costs approximately $900/month. Scholarships are available for international students.

What are the admission requirements for University of Alaska Fairbanks?

IELTS minimum: 6.5. TOEFL minimum: 79. Duolingo minimum: 110. GPA minimum: 3. Application fee: $50. Selectivity: Moderate (40-60%). Application deadline: May 1 (Fall undergraduate), September 1 (Spring undergraduate), March 1 (Fall international graduate), September 1 (Spring international graduate).

What language are courses taught in at University of Alaska Fairbanks?

Courses at University of Alaska Fairbanks are taught in English. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 6.5.

What is University of Alaska Fairbanks ranked?

#144 in United States · QS World #901 · THE World #601 · ARWU #801.

Does University of Alaska Fairbanks offer scholarships?

Yes, University of Alaska Fairbanks offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.

Does University of Alaska Fairbanks provide visa support?

Yes, University of Alaska Fairbanks provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available.

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