Trade Schools in Alaska

There are numerous benefits to attending trade schools in Alaska, including the fact that candidates may acquire valuable skills faster and start their careers as early as possible. Trade schools are also known for their emphasis on hands-on training and practical skills, which allow graduates to be technically sound and confident in their skills.​​​​​​

Aspiring trade workers in Alaska will be glad to know there are several prominent high-quality options to consider in this regard. We will highlight some amazing options below, but first, we provide a quick overview of the average cost of attending a trade school in Alaska.

We include some relevant information concerning this important topic for candidates who would like to take advantage of scholarships and financial aid.

Explore Trade Schools in Alaska by City:

• Trade Schools in Anchorage

Average Cost of Trade Schools in Alaska

Several factors may influence how much a trade school student will pay for their program. Generally, data shows that the average cost for trade schools and particular trade programs in Alaska is around $8,000 to $20,000.

These figures are significantly lower than the average cost of college programs and universities in the area. As for the specific factors influencing just how much a trade

program will cost in Alaska, they include the duration of the program, the program’s degree of specialization, particular location within the state, the cost of materials and equipment, and, of course, the availability of financial aid.

Highly specialized programs require advanced equipment, which drives up the average cost. Additionally, the longer a trade school program takes to complete, the higher the overall expenses.

As one would expect, state-specific factors such as the cost of living in the area where the trade school is located also influence the overall tuition and total cost of a program. Finally, different programs require different levels of tools and equipment with different cost ranges. All of these will affect the final tuition cost.

Candidates in the area may look towards financial aid to alleviate some or all of these costs.

Financial Aid for Trade Schools in Alaska

Alaska offers the Alaska Education Grant for vocational and trade school students. Through this grant, students can receive up to $4,000 every year for their education.

There are also federal options, all of which involve submitting the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) form yearly to determine eligibility. Candidates must ensure that they are enrolled in a trade school that meets federal grant requirements before applying.

State scholarships to consider for vocational students in Alaska include the following:

University of Alaska Scholarships

Candidates may apply for scholarships from the University of Alaska, especially if enrolled in a vocational or trade program. Application is made online, after which candidates will be matched with available scholarships.

AIEF Scholarships

The American Indian Education Fund is another scholarship alternative. This scholarship is available strictly to native American students and native Alaskans. To apply, candidates must be enrolled in an accredited institution and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0.

Better Business Bureau Northwest + Pacific Students of Integrity Scholarship

This scholarship is available for vocational school students in the state who can maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0. For their official applications, candidates are expected to accompany their letters with a video or written essay.

Alaska Education Grant

The Alaska Education Grant is available for Alaska residents who are pursuing an undergraduate degree or a vocational certificate. To apply, candidates must enroll in an accredited institution and complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid form.

Successful applicants will receive a scholarship between $500 to $4,000.

Pride Foundation Scholarships

Pride Foundation scholarships are available for students all over the Northwest, including Alaska. Candidates must be enrolled in a vocational school to qualify.

Licensing and Accreditation for Trade Schools in Alaska

Accreditation is required for trade schools in Alaska to remain in good standing with government requirements. It also ensures that schools meet the right standards to issue respected career and academic certificates.

For institutional accreditation, one of the most notable accrediting agencies for vocational institutions in Alaska is the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. The commission is responsible for accrediting higher institutions across the region, including both two-year and four-year institutions.

Schools may also seek national accreditation from the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC).

For distance learning in the state, the organization to be concerned with is the Distance Education Accrediting Commission.

Top Vocational Trade Schools in Alaska

Below are some of the most notable trade schools in Alaska: