Maximize Your Debt-Free
Education Funding Stack
Higher education and vocational training in Alaska are fully achievable without burdensome student loans. Select your standing below to preview your multi-tier funding package.
Calculate Your Debt-Free Funding Stack
The CIRI Foundation is one essential pillar of your educational journey. By pairing TCF funding with village corporation, tribal, state, and federal aid, most CIRI scholars can attend college or trade school with 100% of costs covered.
$200 per credit hour up to $9,000/yr ($36,000 undergrad lifetime limit)
Merit & need-based grant assistance
Free federal student aid (FAFSA)
Under federal regulations, scholarships awarded by ANCSA regional and village foundations are treated as tribal resources and do not reduce your eligibility for federal need-based aid. Complete your FAFSA first, then apply to TCF and your village corporation.
The 4-Step Action Plan to Full Funding
Follow this chronological checklist to ensure you capture every eligible dollar across federal, state, regional, and village sources.
Submit the FAFSA
Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Unlocks the Federal Pell Grant (up to $7,395/yr) and federal work-study.
Apply to TCF
Log into the TCF AwardSpring portal. Higher Ed windows run Oct 1–Dec 31 and Apr 1–Jun 30. CTE applications are accepted rolling year-round.
Village & Tribal Grants
Eklutna, Ninilchik, Salamatof, and CITC provide supplemental co-funding awards ranging from $1,500 to $4,000 annually.
Book Free Advising
Schedule a 1-on-1 virtual or in-person consultation with a TCF Education & Career Advisor to audit your stack and resolve gaps.