Seeking scholarships for college in South Dakota

I'm thinking about going to college in South Dakota and am trying to figure out what scholarship opportunities are available there for incoming freshmen. Are there any specific South Dakota scholarships that I should definitely apply for?

Absolutely! There are several scholarships specifically for students planning to attend college in South Dakota.

1. South Dakota Opportunity Scholarship: This is a state-funded scholarship designed for South Dakota residents who attended high school in South Dakota. This scholarship offers up to $7,500 over four years to qualifying students. Check out the eligibility requirements to see if you qualify.

2. Freedom Scholarship: Qualified South Dakota students may be eligible to receive a needs-based scholarship to attend a participating postsecondary institution located in the state. Each institution determines Freedom Scholarship recipients based on eligibility criteria including a student's Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

3. SDEA/NEA-Retired Scholarship: This scholarship is for students pursuing a degree in Education and planning to teach in South Dakota. If teaching is your goal, it's worth checking this one out!

4. South Dakota Retailers Association Jerry Wheeler Scholarship Program: This one is geared toward students working part-time or full-time in the retail industry in South Dakota, with awards ranging from $2,750 to $3,700.

5. Build Dakota Scholarship: This program is a collaboration between the state of South Dakota and the South Dakota Board of Technical Education. This scholarship covers full tuition, fees, books, and other required program expenses in eligible build-trade programs at South Dakota's technical institutes in exchange for a commitment to stay and work in the state, in their field of study, for three years following graduation.

Remember to also check the financial aid office at the colleges you're interested in, as they may have institution-specific scholarships available. Each college in South Dakota will have scholarships of their own to offer.

Finally, check with local community organizations, foundations, and companies, which often offer scholarships to local students. Good luck with your scholarship search!