The College Development Fund awards financial aid to Bristol Bay CDQ residents pursuing degrees part time either at the Bristol Bay Campus or via distance delivery from other accredited institutions. Programs that are through an out of state institution may be approved with justification from the applicant. Awards will help pay for tuition, books and fees up to $1,500 per term. High school students taking college courses may also apply for the College Development Fund.
Eligibility requirements are:
- Resident of a Bristol Bay CDQ community
- Enrolled in a degree program with the University of Alaska, Alaska Pacific University (via distance delivery) or Bristol Bay Campus
- Registered as a part-time student
- Undergraduates must have a minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA
- Graduate students must have a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA
Applications are accepted year round. Students must apply each semester at least 3 full business days before their class start date.
2026 College Development Fund Application 2026 College Development Fund High School Application
Aria McWilliams has been using the College Development Fund to help fund courses needed to obtain her Bachelors in Elementary Education through the University of Alaska Fairbanks.
“I was born and raised in Dillingham and as an adult I have looked for a way to give back to my community. Thanks to BBEDC and their College Development Fund they have helped make this dream come true. I love children and after my sister told me I wasn’t too old to start a new career path, the motivation began. Had I been the bankroll behind this idea, it never would’ve taken flight. With the help of the kind hard working staff at BBEDC, I have been able to go back to school, pursuing a degree in education. Trying to juggle being a mom, a homeowner in rural Alaska, going back to school and working full time would have been impossible. With the overly generous contribution from BBEDC we can survive while I strive to further my education. Thank you again. Love, Aria McWilliams”
For more information contact Rachel Tilden or Chanice Johnson at 1-907-842-4370 or 1-800-478-4370.