Welcome High School Partners
APU is built on relationships, and through partners like you, we often connect with students even before they attend university. We appreciate working with counselors, teachers, and guides to identify students who might thrive in APU’s small, community-centered, and experiential learning environment—whether through dual-credit programs or after high school. We understand the challenges of transitioning to post-secondary education and work closely with community members to create a supportive path. From college exploration and application to financial assistance, enrollment, and orientation, we are here to support you and your students every step of the way.
If you are in Anchorage, we would love to have you visit our campus. Student groups may arrange tours or simply stop by for a check-in with Admissions at the Carr Gottstein building. Student groups in Anchorage for sports or activities may be able to stay on campus through our conferencing services. If you would like us to visit you, fill out our request form for a virtual or potential in-person visit.
At APU, we make the application process simple. If a student has questions, we are a phone call away.
Application fee waivers are available for our $35 application fee.
*We also accept NACAC, SAT/ACT/ and College Board fee waivers.
As a private university, APU does not receive state subsidy. However, through the generosity of donors who believe in our mission, we have a lot of scholarships. Many students find APU more affordable than comparable state schools after all scholarships are applied.
Students may use their Alaska Performance scholarship at APU and all state and federal aid.
We even have a Promise to those in greatest need. Students qualifying for a federal maximum Pell Grant will have all remaining tuition waived through our APU Promise Grant after other scholarships are applied.
The first step to receiving a financial aid package for both federal and campus-based aid begins with filling out the FAFSA!
First create a FSA ID. This is something both the students & parents will need to create first. This will be used to sign your FAFSAonline.
The current FAFSA application is open!
If you have students graduating early, please make sure they are selecting the correct FAFSA year.
APU’s FAFSA Code: 001061
At Alaska Pacific University, students are more than numbers—they’re part of a close-knit, supportive community. As a small university, APU is not the right fit for all students, but for some students we are the right choice! Students who thrive at APU are those looking for a small, personalized learning environment that feels family-like. Our Philosophy is unique and so are our students.
Students living on campus become a tight-knit community and enjoy activities that extend beyond academics. We have spacious dorms and a variety of dorm options; many traditionally aged college students stay on campus all four years. Our on-campus students have easy access to tutoring and other supports and we encourage on-campus living with a scholarship.
Dual Credit Information
Early Honors
Cohort-Based Dual Credit Program
Finish your high school requirements and get a head start on college in the same year. Early Honors students have access to the full college experience: a supportive student cohort and faculty advisor, flexibility to pursue their independent athletic and academic goals, and the opportunity to participate in study abroad, APU ski teams, or other campus activities.
Reach out to learn more!
In APU’s Early Honors Program, you will complete high school as a college student, taking college classes taught by college professors, in a supportive cohort with a dedicated faculty advisor. You can remain enrolled in your high school sports teams and clubs! And you’ll earn college credits toward your degree, whether at APU or another university. Fully experience college life – independence, respect from your professors and peers, opportunities to learn and grow, and new outlets for your educational, athletic, or social passions. APU will provide the knowledge, academic skills and confidence that gives you an advantage over your high school peers as they transition to college.
Your Early Honors faculty advisor will help you plan a schedule that meets your high school graduation requirements while also counting towards a college degree. You will follow the 4-week Block and then 11-week Session schedule during the semester. During the 4-week course, students will take Critical Thinking, bridging the gap between high school and college as they examine the difference between information recall and logical analysis. Students can then work with their advisor to take whichever classes work best for them. Some examples of courses include: Writing & Research, Mythology & Folklore, American Government & Politics, Principles of Chemistry I and II, Biology I and II, Physics, and Calculus I, II, and III.
Many university offerings, such as athletics, study abroad, or arts and music, count for college credit, whether at APU or another university. Learn more about dual credit.
APU admissions and financial aid staff can work with you to identify scholarships and other assistance.
Finishing High School vs. Starting College
You’re almost finished with high school, and ready for the next challenge. In APU’s Early Honors Program, you will complete high school as a college student taking college classes taught by college professors. And you’ll earn college credits at the same time, while remaining eligible for both university and high school athletics and clubs. See our frequently asked questions below for more information on how dual-credit works.
Online or AP/IB Classes vs. College Seminars and Courses
You’ll also truly experience college life – independence, respect from your professors and peers, opportunities to learn and grow, and new outlets for your educational, athletic, and social passions. You will be a full-time APU student and your experience will instill the knowledge, academic skills and confidence that gives you an advantage over your high school peers as they transition to college.
Getting Lost in the Crowd vs. Being Independent and Supported
APU’s flexible course scheduling makes it easy for you to stay connected to your high school classmates, activities, sports and clubs, while also participating in the full range of opportunities a university has to offer, such as sports teams, clubs, and studyabroad. Other students in your Early Honors cohort are there with you on your college journey, guided by a full-time faculty advisor.
The APU campus is nestled in a greenbelt in the middle of Anchorage, where you’ll feel a world away from the crowded high school life but just a few miles or minutes away from your friends and activities. APU facilities and student housing offer a safe and comfortable environment. You’ll be independent but will also have support and mentorship from the Early Honors Program director, faculty advisors, and student life staff.
Whether you’re from a nearby high school or joining us from hometowns far away, Early Honors students like you are welcome to live in APU’s on-campus housing. Within a short walk to all of your EH classes and the APU/UAA Consortium Library, you’ll appreciate the convenience, safety, and comfort of on-campus residency. And studies show that first-year students who live on campus tend to earn higher grades and report greater personal growth.
Residence Advisers, selected from APU student leaders and trained in emergency and safety procedures, are assigned to all student housing. Your RA is among your neighbors. Residence Advisers can help ease your transition to on-campus living and college life. In addition to wireless Internet, typical housing features three-bedroom suites that include a living room and large bathroom. On-campus meal plans are mandatory.
When you say I’ll be dual enrolled at my high school and Alaska Pacific University, what does that mean exactly?
Early Honors admits high school seniors – and juniors, too, sometimes – so that you may complete two programs at the same time: While your APU courses fulfill credits to complete your high school diploma, you’ll also earn credits to satisfy a first year of college. You’ll be enrolled in two places at once: your high school as usual and at APU as a full-time student. You’re held to the same expectations as other APU students and you have full privileges, including use of the Moseley Sports Center and its saltwater pool; the APU climbing wall; the APU-UAA consortium library; free, unlimited PeopleMover bus pass; and admission to APU student government, clubs and travel. APU maintains Memoranda of Agreement with the Anchorage School District and Matanuska-Susitna School District ensuring that courses taken at APU can count toward high school graduation requirements. We may establish similar agreements when potential Early Honors students come from other districts or home school systems.
My high school guidance counselor is encouraging me to apply for Early Honors, but I’m wondering: Will I be able to continue meeting with my guidance counselor as an Early Honors student? Or will I have a new academic adviser at APU? Do I have to choose between them?
Yes, yes and no. As a dual-enrolled student, you retain your high school status, and your APU Early Honors advisor will work with you and your guidance counselor throughout the year. Early Honors students should see their APU advisor regularly. You’re welcome to drop by without an appointment to check in or just chat about school and life. And no, you need not choose between your high school guidance counselor and your APU academic advisor— both will work closely together to support you on your journey toward graduation and beyond. I planned to enroll in APU as a college freshman, not as a high school senior!
Do students ever stay on at APU to earn college degrees once they’ve completed Early Honors?
Yes. Your Early Honors credits give you a head start toward a bachelor’s degree at APU at a locked-in tuition rate, making Alaska Pacific University one the best buys in higher education among private universities nationwide. While it’s not a recruiting program, Early Honors introduces students to APU’s small class sizes and rigorous academics—attributes that attract several Early Honors graduates every year. APU’s emphasis on applied learning can be a good fit when you’re looking for hands-on, Alaska-based education that suits real-world demands.
I’m ready for a new challenge like Early Honors. But I want to continue playing sports at my high school or participating in clubs. Can I do both?
Yes, you can. APU’s flexible scheduling makes it easy for Early Honors students to stay connected to their senior class. In fact, you’ll find that many Early Honors students organize their APU school day to accommodate high-school based events and interests like clubs, student government, arts and sports—activities that make your senior year memorable.
Tumyaraa Bridge Program
CULTURALLY-CONNECTED COLLEGE READINESS
Alaska Pacific University’s Tumyaraa: The Path Bridge Program for Alaska Native high school students promotes cultural identity, enhances math, science, and writing skills, and increases college readiness through on-campus intensives and year-round support. Watch this video to learn more about the program.
Reach out to learn more!
This free program brings 10th and 11th grade students to campus for intensive classes each spring and summer. Students participate in cultural activities, and complete credit-bearing math, writing, and college readiness courses with year-round support from dedicated APU faculty and staff. Experience Anchorage like never before! Immerse yourself in the college experience, build valuable skills, and set yourself up for future academic and career success. Keep reading to learn more and to meet our dedicated team.
Funded by a federal grant, Tumyaraa is completely free for students, chaperones, and participating elders, including travel.
We are pleased to announce that all travel arrangements for upcoming Spring and Summer intensives will be fully handled by Tumyaraa personnel. All travel costs, including flights and ground transportation, will be covered by the program. Detailed flight itineraries and transportation information will be provided to chaperones no less than one week prior to the in-person sessions, ensuring ample time for preparation.
Chaperones are responsible for sharing these travel details, along with any itinerary updates, with parents and students to ensure everyone is informed. Additionally, students and their chaperones will be accommodated in university dormitories during the program. Our goal is to make the travel experience as seamless and stress-free as possible, allowing participants to focus on the invaluable learning opportunities ahead.
Tumyaraa students complete more than one full semester of college coursework, completely free, with additional support for further classes.
- WRIT 098: Writing in Community
- WRIT 100: Strategies for Effective Writing
- MT 097: Beginning Algebra
- GS 135: College and Life Readiness
- Tumyaraa Algebra Prep
- Instructor Slides
- Student Workbook (General)
- Student Work Book (“Fish Math”)
- Tumyaraa Geometry Prep
- Geometry Preparation Materials
- MT 101: Intermediate Algebra
- FP 110: Indigenous Fine Arts
How does the Tumyaraa program work?
Tumyaraa (’the path’) offers an exceptional opportunity for high school students to prepare for their academic futures through immersive, multi-week summer intensives at the APU campus during their 10th and 11th grade years. A shorter intensive may also be available in the spring.
Throughout the program, students will engage in coursework in math, writing, and college readiness, earning college credit while working alongside esteemed APU faculty, chaperones, and community elders. In addition to academics, students will take part in enriching cultural activities and fun excursions around Anchorage, including hiking, boating, exploring the city, and making crafts.
For 12th grade students, the program offers the option to apply for the APU Early Honors program, take additional APU classes online, or receive personalized support from Tumyaraa staff to guide them toward their next steps—whether that be college, career training, or other exciting opportunities. This program ensures that students are not only academically prepared but also equipped with the skills and experiences needed to succeed in their future endeavors.
How much does this cost?
The Tumyaraa Program is completely FREE to students! Costs
covered include:
- Transportation to and from student’s community
- Meals
- Housing
- Educational Activities
- School Supplies
What does a sample schedule look like?
First Intensive (summer prior to Junior Year): Incoming 10th grades
participate in math, writing, and college readiness coursework, along with cultural activities.
During the school year: Tumyaraa staff and faculty keep in touch
with students and their high school teachers, through tutoring, care packages, potential site visits, and more.
Second Intensive (summer prior to Senior Year): Returning 11th
graders continue their coursework, earning college credit on completion, and receive assistance applying to APU Early Honors or registering for additional online classes.
During the school year: Students may apply to Early Honors, take
additional online classes, or simply finish up their Senior Year with
assistance from Tumyaraa staff on preparing for what comes next.
What happens if a student has to miss the intensives due to weather or unforeseen circumstances?
Students must attend in-person sessions on the APU campus. (If weather is a factor to students getting to Anchorage or if there are extenuating circumstances, Tumyaraa program staff will offer alternative ways to make up credit.) Students must turn in assignments, or make-up assignments by their deadlines.
What are the program requirements?
- Attend all in-person intensives on the APU campus.
- Participate in weekly zoom sessions. They vary between math support, writing assignments, and 1 monthly check in with the family school counselor for Tumyaraa.
- While on the APU campus, students must adhere to all school and program policies.
Can I receive college credit?
There is an opportunity to receive a college credit by attending all of the sessions and meeting all of the program requirements. Students will potentially earn 4 or more college credits upon successful completion of the APU courses.
Quick Facts
Students eligible to use the Alaska Performance Scholarship
Students Enrolled
Undergrad Students
Alaska Students
Alaska Native / American Indian
Student / Faculty Ratio
On-Campus Housing Options
Meet Our Team
For All MSCP / PsyD, Non-degree, Teacher Apprenticeship, & EcoLeague / North2North / Early Honors
Last Names A-K
ANELP / MBA / EMBA / & VA School Certifying Official
Last Names L-Z
