The University of the Arctic (UArctic) is a cooperative network of universities, colleges, and other organizations committed to higher education and research in the North. Members share resources, facilities, and expertise to build post-secondary education programs that are relevant and accessible to northern students. UArctic's overall goal is to create a strong, sustainable circumpolar region by empowering northerners and northern communities through education and shared knowledge.

The University of the Arctic has been endorsed as the official provider and coordinator of IPY higher education and outreach activities. To fulfill this responsibility, UAF has partnered with UArctic to create the IPY Higher Education and Outreach (HEO) Office on the UAF campus. This office is charged with coordination of the UArctic IPY cluster of higher education and outreach projects.