South Dakota National Guard Tuition Benefit
South Dakota Department of the Military / Board of Regents
100% of in-state tuition for South Dakota National Guard members at public universities (up to 128 undergraduate credits) and technical colleges.
- How much
- 100% of in-state tuition (after federal tuition assistance)
- Who qualifies
- Member of the South Dakota Army or Air National Guard
- Completed basic training; 90% drill attendance; satisfactory progress.
- For students starting college, undergrads, grad students, trade school students, adults going back to school
- When to apply
- Apply any time Each term; documents due before or at course registration.
- How to apply
- Complete SDNG Form 56 and contact the South Dakota Army National Guard Education Services Office, which works with your university
- Submit validating documents before or at registration each term
- What you'll need
- state application + membership
- Last checked
- October 5, 2026, against the official page (vetaffairs.sd.gov), page 2 and page 3
The details
SDCL 33-6-5 to 33-6-8.1. Members of the South Dakota Army or Air National Guard get a 100% tuition benefit (in-state resident rate) for undergraduate courses at Board of Regents universities, up to 128 credit hours toward a bachelor's degree; the SD Dept. of Veterans Affairs also lists graduate programs up to 32 credits, in-state nonprofit universities, and one approved program at a state technical college. Federal tuition assistance must be used first; the state pays the remainder up to 100% of tuition. Requirements: completed initial basic training/required active duty for training; membership throughout each semester; attend 90% of drills and training; satisfactory academic progress; notify the institution at registration.
More money from South Dakota
- South Dakota Opportunity ScholarshipUp to $7,500 over four years ($1,500 in years 1-3, $3,000 in year 4)
- South Dakota Need-Based Grant (Needs Based Scholarship)$500 to $2,000
- Jump Start Scholarship$1,500 (first year only, split between fall and spring)
- Reduced Tuition for Residents 65 and Older45% off tuition
Keep looking
- Answer a few questions to see every program you qualify for
- Nearby states: Iowa, Minnesota, Montana, North Dakota, Nebraska, Wyoming
- Federal aid and national scholarships (open to students in any state)
- The FAFSA in plain English (2027-28)
- Should I file the FAFSA if I don't think I'll qualify?
- FAFSA deadlines by state (2027-28)
- The FAFSA for parents: what you need to do
- How to save on textbooks: free, rented and cheaper options
We list programs; we don't decide who gets them. Always check the official page before you apply. Spot something wrong? Tell us.