Freedom Scholarship
Scholarship Background
The South Dakota Freedom Scholarship is South Dakota's first need-based scholarship, made possible by the generosity of First PREMIER Bank / PREMIER Bankcard, the State of South Dakota, Avera Health, and Sanford Health.
Scholarship Amount
For the 2024-25 academic year, amounts vary, beginning at $3,000.
Student Eligibility and Commitment
- Maintain South Dakota residency for at least one year prior to scholarship application.
- Demonstrate financial need (Cost of Attendance - Expected Family Contribution - Awarded Financial Aid = Student Need).
- Maintain a GPA of at least 2.0 while enrolled at an eligible institution.
- Be pursuing a baccalaureate degree.
- Graduate within five years or less.
- Commit in writing to live and work in South Dakota for three years after graduation.
- Acknowledge that any failure to meet these requirements will result in the conversion from a scholarship to an interest-bearing loan.