About RAHI

Since 1983, the Rural Alaska Honors Institute (RAHI) has been helping rural and Alaska Native high school students achieve their dreams through higher education. Founded at the request of the Alaska Federation of Natives, RAHI prepares students for academic success, college life, and lifelong leadership.

RAHI is a six-week, fully immersive college program where students live on the UAF Troth Yeddha' campus, earn up to 10 college credits, volunteer in the Fairbanks community, and explore interior Alaska through outdoor adventures. The program is carefully structured with a full schedule of academics, activities, and support, giving students a strong sense of college expectations while providing guidance throughout. Along the way, they build friendships that last a lifetime—and it’s all completely free.

RAHI runs for a little over six weeks from May 26 – July 10, 2026. During this time, students live on campus, attend classes, take part in recreation and volunteer activities, and explore interior Alaska.

To attend RAHI, students must:

  • Be Alaska Native or from a rural Alaskan community
  • Be a high school junior or senior (attending RAHI after their junior or senior year)
  • Have a 3.0 or higher cumulative GPA
  • Be able to read at or above grade level
  • Be committed to pursuing a college degree

Rural communities are generally small or far from major cities. Here’s how we define it:

  • Communities not connected by road or rail to Anchorage or Fairbanks with 7,500 people or fewer, or
  • Communities connected by road or rail with 1,500 people or fewer and at least 150 miles from Anchorage or Fairbanks

“Connected by road” does not include ferry routes or roads outside Alaska.

Even if your community does not fit this definition, we encourage you to apply. Applications are not automatically rejected based on location, but we do prioritize those who fit our criteria.

Applications for RAHI open on January 1 and close on March 1, 2026. The process can take some time, so we encourage students to start early. You’ll need to complete:

  • The main application with basic information
  • Essays
  • Recommendation forms
  • Your transcript
  • A resume

Because recommendation forms are required, it’s a good idea not to wait until the last minute. The deadline is firm, and late applications cannot be accepted.

RAHI is a competitive and exciting program, and being chosen is an honor. We consider eligibility criteria, academics, leadership, and motivation, all of which should come through in your application. Recommendations also play an important role, so give your referees plenty of time to share their thoughts.

If you’re ready to challenge yourself, explore new opportunities, and grow as a student and leader, apply with confidence. RAHI could be a perfect fit for you!

Learn more about our application here.

RAHI offers several tracks to match your interests:

  • Traditional: Explore electives like Writing, Indigenous Cultures of Alaska, Library Science, Study Skills, Chemistry, or Process Technology, plus recreation classes.
  • Research: Pair with UAF mentors to conduct scientific projects and gain hands-on research experience.
  • Teach: Prepare for a career in education with courses like Teaching for Alaska’s Future, Indigenous Cultures of Alaska, and Study Skills.
  • Diesel: Learn diesel engine and heavy equipment operation, maintenance, and safety—preparing for high-demand careers.
See our full course listings here..
Yes! Students earn an average of 9 college credits at RAHI. Credits apply to UAF and can transfer to other universities. Some may also qualify as dual credit with your high school, which can help shorten your senior year. You’ll work with advisors to determine the best way to apply your credits.

RAHI is completely free for students! Seriously. This includes:

  • Transportation to and from Fairbanks
  • Tuition and course materials
  • Meals and housing
  • Recreation and volunteer activities
  • Supplies

For six weeks, you’ll live in a dorm with a roommate, attend classes, and eat in the Wood Center. Your days are full of learning, recreation, and community experiences.

Weekday Schedule:

  • 8:00am–3:15pm: Academic classes
  • 3:30pm–5:00pm: Recreation class
  • 5:00pm–6:00pm: Dinner
  • 7:00pm–9:00pm: Study Hall (Sunday–Thursday)

Weekend Activities Include:

  • Angel Rocks / Chena Hot Springs hike
  • Denali Whitewater Rafting
  • Fairbanks Scavenger Hunt
  • 4th of July picnic
  • Midnight Sun Run
  • Volunteer projects at Calypso Farms or the Large Animal Research Station

Life at RAHI is full but balanced—you’ll make lifelong friends, try new things, and gain college experience.

You can hear it firsthand from our alumni. Check out the videos on our media page.

Students are required to participate fully—academics, recreation, and volunteer opportunities all matter. These activities help you build relationships, develop resilience, and step outside your comfort zone.

If you have health-related concerns, we’ll work with you to modify activities or find alternatives when appropriate.

Yes! While participation in RAHI activities is required, we build in some limited free time and allow approved family or friends to spend time with you on and off campus. Your parent or guardian should let us know who is approved. Support from loved ones is part of staying balanced and happy at RAHI.
Students who attended as juniors may apply again for their senior year. Preference is given to first-time students, but returning students may be accepted if we have open spots. We love our alumni, but our goal is to give as many students as possible the RAHI experience.