Pierre, SD — September 30, 2025 — Exciting opportunities await students across South Dakota as they prepare for the annual Free Application Period starting tomorrow, October 1, 2025. This initiative, championed by the South Dakota Board of Regents alongside the South Dakota Board of Technical Education, is meticulously designed to break down financial barriers and encourage exploration of vibrant academic endeavors across the state.
“Applying for college is an exciting first step in a student’s educational journey,” expressed Nathan Lukkes, BOR Executive Director. “By waiving application fees, we hope to make higher education more accessible to every student and highlight the quality programs available right here in South Dakota.”
The Free Application Period spans from October 1 to November 30, 2025, and invites students to apply online to any of the ten prestigious public institutions within the state — all without the usual financial hurdle of application fees.
- Black Hills State University
- Dakota State University
- Lake Area Technical College
- Mitchell Technical College
- Northern State University
- South Dakota Mines
- South Dakota State University
- Southeast Technical College
- University of South Dakota
- Western Dakota Technical College
Institutions such as Mitchell Technical College, Southeast Technical College, and Western Dakota Technical College offer an added financial incentive with no application fees year-round, emphasizing their commitment to maintaining accessible education for all students.
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), another cornerstone for aspiring students, also opens on October 1. By completing the FAFSA early, students position themselves favorably to access a broad spectrum of financial aid options, including federal grants, work-study opportunities, and loans.
The FAFSA’s significance stretches beyond the federal level, empowering students with eligibility for many state and institutional scholarship programs across South Dakota. “Completing the FAFSA as early as possible ensures that students have access to the broadest range of financial aid options available,” Lukkes noted, underscoring the importance of proactive planning in achieving educational success.
Students, parents, and educators are encouraged to visit the dedicated resource portal at www.OurDakotaDreams.com. This platform serves as a comprehensive guide, presenting detailed information about the Free Application Period, FAFSA processes, and a variety of college-readiness resources tailored for South Dakota families.
The initiative is particularly significant to South Dakota, a state renowned for its bright, resourceful, and community-driven populace. From the breathtaking landscapes of the Black Hills to the rich cultural heritage evident across its towns and cities, South Dakota thrives on education, innovation, and community spirit. This yearly endeavor is deeply rooted in the state’s dedication to nurturing a capable and educated workforce equipped to tackle the dynamic challenges of tomorrow.
Exploring Higher Education Opportunities in South Dakota
South Dakota’s public higher-education institutions stand as pillars of academic excellence and innovation. Each institution offers unique programs tailored to burgeoning industries and fields critical to the state’s economic landscape, such as technology, healthcare, engineering, and the sciences.
For students with aspirations in technology, Dakota State University emerges as a leader, offering cutting-edge programs in cybersecurity and computer science, fields that are intrinsic to the digital economy. Meanwhile, South Dakota Mines provides a formidable foundation in engineering and natural sciences, fostering an environment that encourages problem solving and critical thinking — essential skills in today’s global marketplace.
Those drawn to vocational and technical education will find robust opportunities at institutions like Lake Area Technical College and Southeast Technical College. These colleges emphasize practical skills and readiness, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to meet the demands of South Dakota’s diverse industries.
The University of South Dakota and South Dakota State University present comprehensive educational experiences with a broad array of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs, effectively preparing students for careers in business, health sciences, and law.
As the state continues to cultivate a strong educational infrastructure, the Free Application Period stands as a testament to South Dakota’s commitment to fostering academic growth and accessibility for all students.
Each year, students from across South Dakota are inspired to pursue their educational dreams, supported by a community and state that values knowledge and opportunity. This initiative solidifies South Dakota’s position as a beacon of educational accessibility and excellence in the heart of America.