Veteran Free Tuition Program (10%+ Disability)
Free tuition at SD state-supported institutions for veterans with 10%+ disability who served during wartime.
At a glance
- Benefit type
- Education & Training — South Dakota
- Who it's for
- Veterans
- VA rating needed
- 10% or higher
- Estimated value
- Up to $32,000-$40,000 over four years
- Where it applies
- South Dakota
- Last verified
- May 12, 2026
What is Veteran Free Tuition Program (10%+ Disability)?
Veteran Free Tuition Program (10%+ Disability) is a South Dakota education & training benefit for veterans. Free tuition at SD state-supported institutions for veterans with 10%+ disability who served during wartime. Requires 10%+ VA disability rating. The listed value is Up to $32,000-$40,000 over four years.
Who qualifies
- Requires 10%+ VA disability rating
- Honorable discharge required
- South Dakota residency
Who is eligible
Eligibility
Honorably discharged SD resident veteran who qualifies for in-state tuition and meets ONE of: (a) served on active duty between Aug 2, 1990 and a date TBD by the SD Legislature; (b) received an Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal or other U.S. campaign/service medal for combat operations against hostile forces outside the U.S.; OR (c) has a service-connected disability rated 10% or more. Must exhaust all federal VA educational benefits first.
What Veteran Free Tuition Program (10%+ Disability) covers
Covers
One month of free tuition at SD state-supported universities or technical colleges for each month of qualifying service, with a minimum of one and maximum of four academic years toward an undergraduate degree.
Time limit
Veteran has 20 years from the end of the qualifying service period, OR 20 years from the date rated 10%+ disabled by the VA, to use the benefit.
Estimated value
Up to four years of undergraduate tuition ($32,000-$40,000 over four years).
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 Veteran Free Tuition Program (10%+ Disability)
Who qualifies for Veteran Free Tuition Program (10%+ Disability)?▾
What VA disability rating do I need for Veteran Free Tuition Program (10%+ Disability)?▾
How much is Veteran Free Tuition Program (10%+ Disability) worth?▾
How do I apply for Veteran Free Tuition Program (10%+ Disability)?▾
Where can I verify Veteran Free Tuition Program (10%+ Disability)?▾
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
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
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