ANSEP Middle School Academy (MSA) is an academic and residential experience that emphasizes increasing students’ mathematics and science knowledge and skills while introducing them to college life. ANSEP promotes Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education. Each day students will participate in activities that include problem solving, research, critical thinking and communication skills. Industry professionals, university faculty and ANSEP staff will lead activities. This fall session offering is sponsored and in partnership with the Northwest Arctic Borough School District (NWABSD). Students attend the ANSEP Middle School Academy free of charge.
WHO SHOULD APPLY?
NWABSD students currently in grade 6, 7, or 8, who:
- Are interested in STEM
- Have at least a B average in science and mathematics courses
- Have not attended a previous ANSEP Middle School Academy on the UAA campus
- Are on track (or have the ability to get on track) to complete Algebra 1 before entering high school
WHEN AND WHERE WILL THE ANSEP MIDDLE SCHOOL ACADEMY OCCUR?
The Academy will be held on the University of Alaska Anchorage (UAA) campus and hosted by ANSEP from October 26 - October 31, 2026 (Travel dates Oct 25th & Nov 1st). Students will be housed on the UAA campus during the program. It is mandatory for all participants to stay in the provided housing for the duration of the Academy. Transportation will be provided by your school district between your hometowns and Anchorage.
APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS:
- Student Information (i.e., school info, AK Regional Corporation and tribal/village affiliation)
- Parent/Guardian Information (i.e., contact info, education)
- Student Short Answer Questions (i.e., ANSEP participation, activities)
- Student Essay (can be copied and pasted into this form or emailed to ANSEP)
- Transcript Release (i.e., student ID #, school contact information)
- Math and Science Teacher Recommendations (link to rec. form is provided in last section). PLEASE share this link with your teacher.
STUDENT ESSAY (REQUIRED)
The student essay is to neatly hand-written. The essay should be between 250-500 words. Explain to the selection committee:
- WHY you want to participate in ANSEP Middle School Academy.
PLEASE INCLUDE your full name (first and last) and current grade level at the top of your essay.
When will I know if I have been accepted to attend the ANSEP Middle School Academy?
Selections for the Academy will be made by October 2. You will receive notification; via email and mail on acceptance status.
Who should I contact if I have any questions regarding the ANSEP Middle School Academy?
If you have questions about the application process or need additional information in regards to the Middle School Academy, contact ANSEP at (907) 786-0905 or ansep_msa@uaa.alaska.edu.
If you have questions about where to submit your application, if there is anyone who can help you complete your application, or travel arrangements once you have been accepted, you can contact the following from your school district:
Northwest Arctic Borough School District
Dora Hadley
E-mail: dorhadley@nwarctic.org
Phone: (907) 442-1872