Free Tuition for Dependents of POWs/MIAs
Free tuition and mandatory fees at state-supported schools for children and spouses of POWs or MIAs.
At a glance
- Benefit type
- Education & Training — South Dakota
- Who it's for
- Spouses, Dependents
- VA rating needed
- No rating requirement
- Estimated value
- Full tuition and mandatory fees
- Where it applies
- South Dakota
- Last verified
- May 12, 2026
What is Free Tuition for Dependents of POWs/MIAs?
Free Tuition for Dependents of POWs/MIAs is a South Dakota education & training benefit for spouses, dependents. Free tuition and mandatory fees at state-supported schools for children and spouses of POWs or MIAs. The listed value is Full tuition and mandatory fees.
Who qualifies
- Through veteran sponsor (any rating)
- South Dakota residency
Who is eligible
Eligibility
The service member must have been a SD resident at the time of entry into the armed forces. Dependents must not be eligible for equal or greater federal benefits.
What Free Tuition for Dependents of POWs/MIAs covers
Covers
Free tuition and mandatory fees at state-supported schools.
How to apply for Free Tuition for Dependents of POWs/MIAs
How to apply
Contact your County or Tribal Veterans Service Officer.
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 POWs/MIAs
Who qualifies for Free Tuition for Dependents of POWs/MIAs?▾
How much is Free Tuition for Dependents of POWs/MIAs worth?▾
How do I apply for Free Tuition for Dependents of POWs/MIAs?▾
Where can I verify Free Tuition for Dependents of POWs/MIAs?▾
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 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.
Full undergraduate tuition
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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