South Dakota has launched its annual Free College Application Period, running from October 1 to November 30, 2024. This initiative offers high school seniors the opportunity to apply to the state's public universities and technical colleges without paying application fees, including Watertown’s Lake Area Technical College.
The Free College Application Period is a collaborative effort between the South Dakota Board of Regents (BOR), the South Dakota Board of Technical Education (BOTE), and the South Dakota Department of Education (DOE). This program highlights the state's commitment to improving access to higher education by removing financial barriers for students.
“Access and affordability are central to our mission”, said Nathan Lukkes, Executive Director of the BOR. “The free application period eliminates a financial hurdle, encouraging more students to explore higher education options across our public universities and technical colleges”.
Participating institutions include Black Hills State University, Dakota State University, Lake Area Technical College, Mitchell Technical College, Northern State University, South Dakota Mines, South Dakota State University, Southeast Technical College, University of South Dakota, and Western Dakota Technical College. Each school offers a range of academic programs and technical pathways aimed at boosting enrollment and fostering career success.
Joseph Graves, South Dakota's Secretary of Education, emphasized the importance of this initiative in building a stronger state economy. “By making the application process more accessible, we’re encouraging higher participation in education, which in turn contributes to a more skilled workforce. We want students to understand the vast career opportunities available right here in South Dakota”.
The Free College Application Period is part of South Dakota’s larger mission to ensure that students across the state have access to the resources they need to achieve their academic and professional goals. Prospective students and their families can learn more by visiting OurDakotaDreams.com, a leading resource for post-secondary readiness in the state.
This initiative underscores South Dakota’s ongoing effort to foster a culture of higher education and eliminate financial barriers, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to pursue a top-tier education without unnecessary financial strain.
