Participate in the Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS)

Individual students cannot be tracked. However, we can look at trends over time in populations of students, such as students overall or students in a certain grade level.

Students are eligible to participate in the survey if they are in a selected class at a selected school. In larger school districts, a random sample of classes is often selected for the survey, while in smaller districts, all classes are typically included.

A school-based survey provides a controlled setting under strict standardized guidelines, which is the best way to protect student privacy, ensure anonymity, and collect credible data from students. 

Questions related to priority health risk behaviors — the most important health risks affecting youth today — may be considered sensitive. The questions are clear and straightforward. Students have the option to skip questions they are uncomfortable answering, without invalidating the entire survey. 

• 2025 YRBS Questionnaire

There is no evidence that asking these questions will lead to an increase in the likelihood that youth will practice risky behaviors. To help solve health problems among youth, we need to understand their unique experiences and perspectives. The YRBS provides an anonymous tool to gather that information.

Research shows that data collected from adolescents are just as reliable as data from adults. Data obtained from the YRBS are checked for conflicting and invalid responses. Schools and parents can help ensure students respond honestly by letting them know that the survey is important, their privacy is protected, and their participation is completely anonymous. Schools are encouraged to share the Alaska YRBS Student Video with students to highlight the need for their voices to be heard.

Alaska successfully implemented a web-based survey in 2025 to improve the efficiency of our survey administration process. We recognize that Alaska schools conduct academic assessments and other surveys online, and youth are more receptive to online platforms. The methods for administering the YRBS today and in the future ensure responses are anonymous and the resulting information is representative of Alaska’s entire youth population.

YRBS results for the entire state may be affected. We cannot replace or substitute a selected classroom, school, or district that chooses not to participate.

Active consent means that a signed permission form is required for a student to participate. Whether your district uses a paper-based or online registration system, the best practice is to include the YRBS permission form in registration packets. 

In addition to the instructions for schools listed on this page, we recommend conducting the survey during second period to avoid missing students who arrive late or leave early. 

We provide districts in Alaska the option of conducting a district-level survey if the district has 45 or more high school students. District-level results are only released if there are enough student responses to protect student anonymity and ensure high data quality.

For financial assistance contact us at YRBS@alaska.gov to find out if there is a community partner in your area willing to help.