South Dakota National Guard Tuition Assistance
100% tuition reduction at state-supported universities for active SD National Guard members (up to 128 credits).
State BenefitSouth DakotaEducation & Training
Verified May 12, 2026 against vetaffairs.sd.gov
At a glance
- Benefit type
- Education & Training — South Dakota
- Who it's for
- National Guard
- VA rating needed
- No rating requirement
- Estimated value
- $32,000-$40,000+ for undergraduate degree
- Where it applies
- South Dakota
- Last verified
- May 12, 2026
What is South Dakota National Guard Tuition Assistance?
South Dakota National Guard Tuition Assistance is a South Dakota education & training benefit for national guard. 100% tuition reduction at state-supported universities for active SD National Guard members (up to 128 credits). The listed value is $32,000-$40,000+ for undergraduate degree.
Who qualifies
- National Guard
- Through veteran sponsor (any rating)
- South Dakota residency
Who is eligible
Eligibility
Must be an active SD National Guard member established in a SD unit. Must have completed initial basic training. Must maintain 90% drill attendance and unit membership throughout the semester. Must maintain satisfactory academic progress. Federal tuition assistance must be used first.
What South Dakota National Guard Tuition Assistance covers
Covers
100% tuition reduction at any state-supported university or in-state nonprofit post-secondary university. Up to 128 undergraduate credits and 32 graduate credits.
Estimated value
Potentially $32,000-$40,000+ in undergraduate tuition.
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.
How VetUnlock verifies benefitsFrequently asked questions about South Dakota National Guard Tuition Assistance
Who qualifies for South Dakota National Guard Tuition Assistance?
South Dakota National Guard Tuition Assistance is for National Guard; Through veteran sponsor (any rating); south dakota residency. See the eligibility details on this page and confirm with the official source before applying.
How much is South Dakota National Guard Tuition Assistance worth?
The listed value is $32,000-$40,000+ for undergraduate degree. Amounts can change — confirm the current figure at the official source linked on this page.
How do I apply for South Dakota National Guard Tuition Assistance?
Apply through the official source linked on this page. A county Veterans Service Officer (VSO) can review your eligibility and help you file at no cost.
Where can I verify South Dakota National Guard Tuition Assistance?
Benefit rules and dollar amounts change, so always confirm current details at the official source linked on this page. A free, accredited county or state Veterans Service Officer (VSO) can also verify your eligibility and help you apply.
Other South Dakota Education & Training
- Free Tuition for Dependents of Deceased Veterans$32,000-$40,000+ over four yearsFree tuition at SD state-supported institutions for children (under 25) of veterans killed in action or who died while on active duty.
- Free Tuition for Dependents of POWs/MIAsFull tuition and mandatory feesFree tuition and mandatory fees at state-supported schools for children and spouses of POWs or MIAs.
- Free Tuition for Dependents of National Guard Members (Deceased/Disabled)Full undergraduate tuitionFree tuition for children (under 25) and spouses of SD National Guard members who died or became totally disabled in line of duty.
- In-State Tuition for Nonresident Veterans and DependentsSavings of several thousand dollars per yearNonresident veterans, service members, and dependents are considered residents for tuition purposes at SD public institutions.