Cost of College

Tuition is the amount colleges charge for instruction and is typically billed based on the number of credits a student takes. Fees help support campus services such as technology, libraries, student activities, recreation facilities, and other student resources.

South Dakota’s public universities offer reduced tuition rates for South Dakota residents, while South Dakota’s technical colleges charge the same tuition regardless of residency.

Living expenses include housing, meals, and everyday costs associated with attending college. These expenses vary based on where a student lives, their meal plan, and their personal spending habits.

Cost of Attendance estimates often include:

• Housing (on-campus or off-campus)
• Meal plans or groceries
• Utilities and internet
• Laundry and household supplies

Housing and meal expenses are estimates and may not apply to students who live at home.

Books, course materials, supplies, and equipment are included in Cost of Attendance estimates. While digital textbooks and rental programs have helped reduce costs, expenses can vary significantly depending on a student’s major.

Students in programs such as nursing, engineering, agriculture, and technical education may have additional expenses for equipment, uniforms, software, or specialized materials.

Cost of Attendance also includes indirect expenses that colleges do not bill students for directly. These estimates help provide a more complete picture of what it may cost to attend college for one academic year.

Examples include:

• Transportation
• Personal items
• Cell phone expenses
• Clothing
• Entertainment
• Miscellaneous living expenses

Actual expenses will vary from student to student.

Several factors can impact a student’s total college costs, including:

• The number of credits taken each semester
• Whether a student attends full-time or part-time
• The length of time it takes to complete a degree
• Housing choices
• Participation in study abroad, internships, or extracurricular activities

Students who stay on track and graduate on time can often reduce their overall educational expenses.

There are many ways students can reduce the cost of college, including:

• Completing the FAFSA® every year
• Applying for scholarships
• Earning college credit in high school through dual enrollment or AP courses
• Comparing financial aid offers from multiple colleges
• Exploring reduced tuition programs
• Graduating on time

Many South Dakota students pay significantly less than the published Cost of Attendance after financial aid is applied.

Kids grow fast, but college savings can too. Setting aside even a small amount each month creates options you or your child wouldn’t have had otherwise.

Understanding your financial aid options is a critical part of planning and paying for your college education. See our Financial Aid page to make sure you’re on the right track to affording your journey through higher education.

Applying for scholarships can make a big impact — even a small scholarship can make your Dakota Dreams come true. Learn more about South Dakota’s premier scholarships and browse the Statewide Scholarship Bulletin Board to find numerous scholarship opportunities.