7 Online Colleges That Accept FAFSA in South Dakota

If you are interested in completing an online degree program in South Dakota, you may be wondering how you're going to pay for it. You know that grants, loans, and work-study programs through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) can diminish the financial stress you may face by attending to college.

So you're wondering: which online schools accept FAFSA funds?

If you're a student in South Dakora, keep reading. In this article, we'll discuss some top in-state and out-of-state schools you can attend online using financial aid from the FAFSA.

7 Best Online Colleges That Accept FAFSA in South Dakota

Online learners have several options when it comes to South Dakota schools offering FAFSA-eligible degree programs. Check out the top options for affordable online colleges in South Dakota below.

1. University of South Dakota

The University of South Dakota (USD) is a public university in Vermillion. The oldest public school in the state, it enrolls around 10,000 students.

Those attending this school can pursue both online and on-campus degree programs. Online associate degrees, bachelor's degrees, master's degrees, and doctoral degrees are all available, as well as specialist programs and certificates. Areas of study include:

• anthropology
• business administration
• computer science
• criminal justice
• digital marketing

2. South Dakota State University

South Dakota State University is located in Brookings. This public school is governed by the South Dakota Board of Regents and enrolls around 11,500 students.

Online courses and degree programs are available in various areas for distance education students. Some of the many programs to choose from include:

• agricultural business
• construction technology
• geographic information sciences
• human development and family studies
• sociology

3. Dakota State University

Dakota State University is a public school located in Madison. This school has an enrollment of around 3,300 students.

Both undergraduate and graduate programs are available online at this school, which charges affordable in-state tuition rates. Students can choose from an array of degree and certificate programs in many diverse subjects, including:

• artificial intelligence
• computer information systems
• special education
• esports management
• marketing

4. Northern State University

Northern State University is another South Dakota Board of Regents school. Located in Aberdeen, the public university enrolls around 3,600 students.

Several of the school's degree programs are available online for distance learners. Some certificates can also be completed online. Areas of study include:

• Spanish
• general studies
• accounting
• management
• banking and financial services

5. University of Sioux Falls

The University of Sioux Falls is a private school located in Sioux Falls. It enrolls around 1,400 students in online and in-person degree programs.

Various online associate, bachelor's, and master's programs are available. Students can also pursue online professional certifications. Topics to choose from include:

• health administration
• accounting
• general studies
• organizational leadership
• business

6. Mitchell Technical College

Mitchell Technical College is a public institution located in Mitchell. It enrolls around 1,200 students in various career-focused programs.

This school specializes in two-year associate degrees and certificate programs. Students can pursue four associate degree programs online, as follows:

• small business management
• administrative office specialist
• medical office professional
• speech-language pathology assistant

7. Southeast Technical College

Southeast Technical College is a public school located in Sioux Falls. It boasts an enrollment of around 2,700 students.

Several online associate degrees are available offering flexible eight-week course sessions and the ability to study whenever it's convenient. These programs cover various career-focused subjects, including:

• entrepreneurship
• medical coding and billing
• human resource management
• healthcare leadership
• software support specialist

Other Online Colleges That Accept FAFSA in the U.S.

One of the benefits of online learning is that you can study at any school offering online degree programs without having to travel to that school. Let's look at some other top online schools offering degree programs to students throughout the U.S., including those in South Dakota.

1. Liberty University

Liberty University is a private school located in Lynchburg, VA. It serves nearly 100,000 students in hundreds of online and in-person degree programs.

Both two-year and four-year graduate and undergraduate degrees are available at this school. Those studying full-time receive lower tuition rates, but students can choose to study part-time if they wish. Students can complete a wide array of programs in subjects such as:

• aviation
• nursing
• education
• counseling
• business

2. Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University is a private school known for its online degrees and affordability. More than 35,000 students attend this school online and in-person, and both in-state and out-of-state students are charged the same tuition rates.

Many flexible online bachelor's degrees are available as well as programs at other levels. Flexible courses and helpful student support services make this an excellent school for many online students. Degree programs include:

• communication
• cybersecurity
• digital photography
• human services
• political science

3. Western Governors University

Western Governors University is a unique online-only school headquartered in Millcreek, UT. It enrolls more than 156,000 students.

This school features a highly flexible learning model and affordable tuition charged per term instead of per credit hour. Various online master's, bachelor's, and associate degrees are available, including various health, business, and education programs. Majors include:

• information technology management
• elementary education
• special education
• computer science
• public health

Applying for FAFSA in South Dakota

To have the FAFSA pay for your college degree, you will need to satisfy various eligibility requirements and complete all of the steps for applying. Let's take a closer look at each of these aspects of applying for the FAFSA in South Dakota.

Eligibility

The FAFSA is available to most undergraduate and graduate students in the U.S., but it comes with several eligibility requirements. To be eligible for FAFSA funds, you must:

• be a citizen or eligible noncitizen
• have a social security number
• have a high school diploma or equivalent
• be accepted or enrolled in a college or university that maintains accreditation through an organization such as the Higher Learning Commission
• submit all necessary financial documents

Steps To Apply

Once you've ensured you meet all of the eligibility requirements, you're ready to apply for financial aid. Complete the FAFSA by following the steps below:

• Create an FSA ID by visiting StudentAid.gov. If you have already done this, proceed to the next step.
• Begin filling out the form by entering your personal information as well as any schools you want to receive your FAFSA information. If you are filing as a dependent, your parents or guardians will also need to complete some sections of the form.
• Enter all required financial information. This will include family tax documents, untaxable income, and assets your family may possess.
• Check to make sure all information is correct and sign the FAFSA.
• Submit the FAFSA.

FAQs About Using FAFSA for College in South Dakota

If you're still not sure about using the FAFSA for your online education in South Dakota, keep reading. Below, you will discover answers to frequently asked questions you may have.

Do Online Colleges Accept FAFSA in South Dakota?

Yes, each of the schools discussed in this article, including the seven located in South Dakota, accept FAFSA funds. While they are not exclusively online schools, all of them offer online classes and degree programs.

How Can I Find an Online College That Offers the Most Financial Aid?

FAFSA financial aid is offered independently of the college or university you attend. That said, you may be able to receive additional funds from your school to help you cover your tuition costs and other expenses. To find out which school offers the most financial aid, check with the admissions departments at each of the schools you are considering to find out what options they offer and compare them against each other.

What Other Financial Aid Options Do Online Students Have in South Dakota?

In addition to funds from the FAFSA and your school, you can receive additional financial aid from other sources. Many private organizations, like businesses and nonprofit organizations, offer scholarships and grants to help students pay for school.

If you are or were in the military, you may be eligible for various education benefits. Finally, if you have a job, you can check to find out if your employer offers a tuition assistance or reimbursement program.

Explore Online Higher Education Options

If you're ready to start your online undergraduate or graduate degree, explore the various schools and degree programs highlighted on Learn.org. Reach out to the schools' admissions offices to find out more about the programs available to discover which school is best for you.