Build Dakota Scholarship
Build Dakota funds technical training in fields tied to South Dakota employer needs. It is not a scholarship for any university: programs are offered at four state technical colleges, and the approved credential list determines eligibility. The initiative links training with sponsoring employers to help cover education costs and meet local workforce needs. The program describes coverage as a full ride for tuition, fees, books, and required program expenses under the individua
About Build Dakota Scholarship
Build Dakota funds technical training in fields tied to South Dakota employer needs. It is not a scholarship for any university: programs are offered at four state technical colleges, and the approved credential list determines eligibility. The initiative links training with sponsoring employers to help cover education costs and meet local workforce needs.
The program describes coverage as a full ride for tuition, fees, books, and required program expenses under the individual agreement. Applicants apply to a technical college and complete Build Dakota’s process; programs and dates change each cycle. For 2027, the portal lists applications from January 1 through March 31. Students seeking more than one campus should follow instructions for separate applications.
FAFSA is part of the review. After graduation, recipients must meet the employment commitment with a South Dakota sponsor in the agreed field; failure may require repayment. Before signing, review the job, location, duration, and excluded expenses. The award may reduce borrowing but shapes career and location choices, so compare the service terms with family and work plans.
Who it serves and what it can cover: Build Dakota funds technical training in fields tied to South Dakota employer needs. It is not a scholarship for any university: programs are offered at four state technical colleges, and the approved credential list determines eligibility. The initiative links training with sponsoring employers to help cover education costs and meet local workforce needs. The program describes coverage as a full ride for tuition, fees, books, and required program expenses under the individual agreement. Applicants apply to a technical college and complete Build Dakota’s process; programs and dates change each cycle. For 2027, the portal lists applications from January 1 through March 31. Students seeking more than one campus should follow instructions for separate applications.
How to apply or get help: FAFSA is part of the review. After graduation, recipients must meet the employment commitment with a South Dakota sponsor in the agreed field; failure may require repayment. Before signing, review the job, location, duration, and excluded expenses. The award may reduce borrowing but shapes career and location choices, so compare the service terms with family and work plans. For case-specific questions, contact the program or financial-aid office named on its official page.
College financial-aid program