Free Application Period Opens on Oct. 1 | 9/29/25

PIERRE, SD- Beginning Wednesday, October 1, students can apply for admission to all ten of South Dakota's public higher-education institutions at no cost during the annual Free Application Period. Sponsored by the South Dakota Board of Regents and the South Dakota Board of Technical Education, this initiative is designed to remove barriers to higher education and encourage more students to explore opportunities across the state's public higher education system.

"Applying for college is an exciting first step in a student's educational journey," said BOR Executive Director Nathan Lukkes. "By waiving application fees, we hope to make higher education more accessible to every student and highlight the quality programs available right here in South Dakota."

The Free Application Period runs from October 1 to November 30, 2025. During this time, students can apply online to any of South Dakota's public colleges and universities without paying an application fee.

Participating institutions include:

*No application fee year-round.

In addition to the Free Application Period, students are encouraged to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which officially opens on October 1. The FAFSA determines eligibility for federal financial aid programs, including grants, work-study opportunities, and loans, and is used by many state and institutional scholarship programs. Completing the FAFSA as early as possible ensures that students have access to the broadest range of financial aid options available.

Discover more information about the Free Application Period, FAFSA, and a variety of college-readiness resources at OurDakotaDreams.com.