Free Tuition for Dependents of National Guard Members (Deceased/Disabled)
Free tuition for children (under 25) and spouses of SD National Guard members who died or became totally disabled in line of duty.
At a glance
- Benefit type
- Education & Training — South Dakota
- Who it's for
- Spouses, Survivors, Dependents
- VA rating needed
- No rating requirement
- Estimated value
- Full undergraduate tuition
- Where it applies
- South Dakota
- Last verified
- May 12, 2026
What is Free Tuition for Dependents of National Guard Members (Deceased/Disabled)?
Free Tuition for Dependents of National Guard Members (Deceased/Disabled) is a South Dakota education & training benefit for spouses, survivors, dependents. Free tuition for children (under 25) and spouses of SD National Guard members who died or became totally disabled in line of duty. The listed value is Full undergraduate tuition.
Who qualifies
- Through veteran sponsor (any rating)
- South Dakota residency
Who is eligible
Eligibility
National Guard member must have died or become totally disabled while on state/federal active duty or authorized training duty. Children must be under 25.
What Free Tuition for Dependents of National Guard Members (Deceased/Disabled) covers
Covers
Full undergraduate tuition at SD state-supported universities and technical colleges.
How to apply for Free Tuition for Dependents of National Guard Members (Deceased/Disabled)
How to apply
Contact the SD Dept of Veterans Affairs.
Verified information & sources
Last verified: May 12, 2026
Official source: vetaffairs.sd.gov
Compiled and fact-checked against the official source linked above. Benefit rules and dollar amounts change over time — always confirm current details at the official source before applying. A county Veterans Service Officer (VSO) is a free, accredited advocate who can review your eligibility and help you file at no cost.
Frequently asked questions about Free Tuition for Dependents of National Guard Members (Deceased/Disabled)
Who qualifies for Free Tuition for Dependents of National Guard Members (Deceased/Disabled)?▾
How much is Free Tuition for Dependents of National Guard Members (Deceased/Disabled) worth?▾
How do I apply for Free Tuition for Dependents of National Guard Members (Deceased/Disabled)?▾
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Other South Dakota Education & Training
South Dakota National Guard Tuition Assistance
100% tuition reduction at state-supported universities for active SD National Guard members (up to 128 credits).
$32,000-$40,000+ for undergraduate degree
Free Tuition for Dependents of Deceased/100% Disabled Veterans
Free tuition at SD state-supported institutions for children (under 25) of veterans killed in action or rated 100% disabled.
$32,000-$40,000+ over four years
Free Tuition for Dependents of POWs/MIAs
Free tuition and mandatory fees at state-supported schools for children and spouses of POWs or MIAs.
Full tuition and mandatory fees
In-State Tuition for Nonresident Veterans and Dependents
Nonresident veterans, service members, and dependents are considered residents for tuition purposes at SD public institutions.
Savings of several thousand dollars per year
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