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Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions from Students and Families

I have vouchers. How can I use them?
You can learn more about this here.

I don’t have vouchers. How can I get them?
Find out if you’re entitled to UA vouchers here.


Frequently Asked Questions from Teachers not in UA

How do I become a UA teacher?
You can learn more about this here.

Does my school participate in UA?
You can find this out for your school by clicking here.

How does my school join UA?
You can learn more about this here.


Frequently Asked Questions from UA Teachers

If you need assistance with your UA program questions such as logging into your UA portal account (including password issues), changing your professional learning course, updating your UA record, assistance with orders or other general questions please go to https://myua.amnh.org and use the CONTACT US option or log in and go to the HELP tab.


Frequently Asked Questions from UA Parent Coordinators

If you need assistance with your UA program questions such as logging into your UA portal account (including password issues), changing your professional learning course, updating your UA record, or other general questions please go to https://myua.amnh.org and use the CONTACT US option or log in and go to the HELP tab.

How does the Urban Advantage program help my school?
The Urban Advantage Program (UA) is a school science initiative that supports students, families, teachers and the school community in science education and investigations. Learn more here.

Who are the UA Partners?
There are eight UA partner institutions in all 5 NYC boroughs. Visit the ‘Visit UA Institutions’ to learn more about each institution.  

What types of vouchers do UA schools receive?  How do I get them?
There are 4 voucher types: Class Trip (blue), School Community Trip (yellow), Teacher/Parent Coordinator Pre-Planning (ivory) and Student+3 (green). Vouchers are delivered to schools via FedEx in the Fall. Refer to the UA at a Glance document for details. To learn more, click here then select “Teachers” then “View additional resources.”

Which institution should I select for our School Community Trip?
Each institution offers wonderful experiences for visitors. It is recommended that you consult with UA teachers, administrators and families when choosing a destination. Encourage your families to visit the ‘Plan Your Trip’ page to view upcoming events at all of our institutions. The Parent Coordinator Pre-Planning vouchers are a good tool for learning more about an institution.

How do I arrange for free bus transportation?
First, decide on a date, destination and time for your School Community Trip. Next, contact the institution you plan to visit and make any necessary reservations.  Then, submit a bus request in the myUA Portal (https://myua.amnh.org) under the ‘School Visits and Buses’ tab. See the School Community Trip Planning Packet for details.

How many student and family members can go on a family trip?
Urban Advantage provides at least 2 free buses to each school.  Each bus can hold up to 44 adults. Each School Community Trip voucher can accommodate 40 people.

How should I sign up families?
Once you have decided on a date and destination, let the families of UA students know so that they can sign up for the trip.   Use email, phone trees, or a letter to inform your parents. Promoting trips at other family events is also a good practice.

Who should I contact with questions or problems about vouchers or family trips?
Use the ‘Contact Us’ feature at the myUA Portal (https://myua.amnh.org) for any voucher or School Community Trip related questions or concerns, including requests for additional vouchers.