2026 Scholarship Program

The 2026 scholarship awards include:

Scholarships are open to all Alaska junior and senior high school students who plan to attend college or vocational school.

Every student who submits a completed application will receive two free admissions to the 2026 Fair, which is scheduled for August 21 – September 7.

Applications should include:

Cover letter; explain why you think you’re a good candidate and include your name, address, phone and email, school name and phone, counselor’s name, and the name of the college or vocational school he or she plans to attend
Extracurricular resume including interests, clubs, community service and/or employment
One letter of recommendation
A photo that may be used for publicity purposes
Written essay (1,000 words or less) or creative project (audio, video, performance or visual arts, business plan, social media campaign, arts and crafts, photography, etc.). Please note that DVDs/External Hard Drives will not be accepted. Students can submit videos online by uploading to their personal YouTube, Instagram or other video account, then entering the video URL on the submission page. All application materials should be submitted at alaskastatefair.org or mailed to:
Alaska State Fair
Attn: Kelly Larson
2075 Glenn Hwy
Palmer, Alaska 99645

The written essay or creative project should address one of the following topics:

Write an essay or create a song, poem, or piece of artwork, celebrating the 90^th Anniversary of the Alaska State Fair.”
Alaska is number one in the nation for new farmers. We have the youngest population of farmers and the largest percentage of women involved in agriculture. What can the Fair do to keep this trend growing?
The Alaska State Fair is always looking for innovative and fun events, activities and contests that are free with Fair admission to fairgoers. Create a new event, activity or contest that has minimal cost for the Fair.
How would you use a 12-foot by 12-foot booth space at the Fair to start your own business or to sell goods or services?
Explain your involvement in the Fair OR how the Fair has impacted your life.