Free Application for SD Universities | 10/8/26

PIERRE, S.D. - South Dakota Board of Regents (BOR) Executive Director Nathan Lukkes announced today that students from South Dakota and surrounding states can apply to any of the state's six public universities without an application fee now through November 30.

The Free Application Period gives students a chance to explore their options, discover programs that match their interests, and apply to the universities that may be the right fit for them. With hundreds of degree programs available across the six universities, students can find opportunities in fields ranging from agriculture and education to health care, engineering, business, computer science, and the arts.

"Choosing a college is an important decision, and students should take the time to explore their options and find the university that is the right fit for them," said Lukkes. "The Free Application Period removes a barrier from that process. We want students to look at the opportunities available, visit our campuses, talk with faculty and students, and see what a South Dakota education can offer them."

South Dakota's public universities offer students high-quality academic programs at an affordable price, while also providing students the opportunity to build connections that can last well beyond college. These students go on to build careers, families, and communities across the state.

The Free Application Period is an ideal opportunity for students who may not yet know exactly what they want to study or where they want to attend college.

"Students do not have to have everything figured out before they start exploring," Lukkes said. "The first step is simply learning what is possible. We encourage students to compare programs, visit campuses, talk with admissions counselors, and apply to the schools that interest them. There is no cost to apply during this period, so students can keep their options open."

South Dakota's six public universities include Black Hills State University, Dakota State University, Northern State University, South Dakota Mines, South Dakota State University, and the University of South Dakota. Students from South Dakota and from any of the South Dakota Advantage states can apply free of charge during the Free Application Period.