Reduced Tuition Programs
Investing in your education is more than a time commitment, there is also a financial component. In addition to affordable tuition rates, financial aid, and scholarship opportunities, there are several reduced tuition programs available for Dakota State University students.
Visit the specific admission pages for more information about undergraduate, graduate, or online student cost and aid information.
Featured Tuition Programs
South Dakota Advantage Program
Students from neighboring Midwest states, or Dakota Advantage states, can receive the South Dakota in-state tuition rate. New Freshman and transfer students from North Dakota, Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, Nebraska, Iowa, Wisconsin, Illinois, Minnesota*, Kansas*, and Missouri* qualify for the in-state tuition rate. The SD Advantage program allows students from these selected states the benefit of South Dakota resident tuition.
*Recently added states are eligible for the in-state tuition rate beginning the summer 2024 term.
Minnesota students currently enrolled in the BOR system will continue receiving the Minnesota reciprocity rate until graduation.
New graduate students must have an undergraduate degree from an SDBOR institution to qualify for the in-state tuition rate.
South Dakota State Employee Tuition Benefit
Eligible state employees working for the state of South Dakota can receive a tuition reduction for online or on-campus courses offered by Dakota State University. The reduction is equal to 50% of the resident undergraduate on-campus rate. Accepted students can take up to six credits per semester at this reduced rate.
Military Tuition Assistance Programs
Active military members can apply for a reduced military rate for undergraduate classes. To apply for this discounted rate, please contact the Veteran Affairs Office.
The Tuition Assistance (TA) program provides financial assistance for voluntary off-duty education programs in support of your professional and personal development goals. Because each branch has its own application process and criteria for eligibility, please contact your duty station's Education Office to learn more about your available benefits.
- Air Force Portal
- Coast Guard
- GoArmyEd
- Navy College
The GI Bills® are administered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. The Armed Forces offer soldiers, sailors, marines, guardsmen, and airmen several tuition assistance programs for college courses taken during off-duty hours. Apply for benefits.
For more information, visit the military admissions and cost and aid pages.
Child of Alumni Rate
Children of Dakota State University alumni may qualify to pay in-state tuition for their undergraduate degree. This rate pertains to a parent or legal guardian who received a degree from Dakota State University. This program is available for traditional on-campus students.
Reduced Tuition - Persons 65 Years of Age and Older
Senior citizens who are residents of South Dakota are eligible to receive a reduced tuition rate. To qualify, you must be at least 65 years of age or will celebrate your 65th birthday during the calendar year of enrollment. The reduction in the cost of tuition is equal to 45%.
Contact Us
Have questions about any of the reduced tuition programs? Connect with our admission team at 888-DSU-9988 or admissions@dsu.edu.