South Dakota Freedom Scholarship

Scholarship Description

The South Dakota Freedom Scholarship is South Dakota’s first public/private partnership for a need-based scholarship – now the state’s largest financial need-based scholarship – made possible by the generosity of First PREMIER bank / PREMIER Bankcard, the State of South Dakota under the leadership of Governor Kristi Noem, Avera Health, and Sanford Health. Managed by the South Dakota Community Foundation, this funding is in an endowment that will continue to provide scholarships in perpetuity.

Students interested in the South Dakota Freedom Scholarship should apply for admission through their respective college’s’ website and submit their Free Application for Student Aid (FAFSA) information to their respective college(s). Students will be reviewed for eligibility once admitted and upon completing the FAFSA. There is no separate South Dakota Freedom Scholarship application to complete.

The Freedom Scholarship is available to students with unmet financial need as determined through their submission of the FAFSA in conjunction with the financial aid office at the university.

Eligibility Requirements

• For residents of the following states: South Dakota

Application Requirements

• Transcript required
• Financial need analysis required
• Special requirements exist (These are specified in text.)
• Commit in writing to live and work in South Dakota for three years after graduation

How To Apply