South Dakota Education Grants for Single Mothers: The No‑BS, State‑Specific Guide

Last updated: September 2025

This page gives you exact dollar amounts, deadlines, phone numbers, and direct links to official agencies in South Dakota. It’s built for speed: short paragraphs, clear tables, and step‑by‑step actions.

This guide follows ASingleMother.org’s editorial standards: we verify with primary government sources and state‑level nonprofits, track changes, and correct errors fast. See our Editorial Standards for how we research and update.

Quick Help Box

• Apply for federal and state aid now by filing the FAFSA. Use your 2023 tax info for 2025–26. Priority dates at SD schools are mostly around March 1, with USD using April 1. FAFSA for 2026–27 is set to open by October 1, 2025. Start or return to your FAFSA at StudentAid.gov. (sdstate.edu, usd.edu, ed.gov)
• Maximum Federal Pell Grant for 2025–26 is $7,395\ast \ast ;minimumPellis\ast \ast$740. You don’t repay grants. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
• South Dakota Build Dakota Scholarships = full‑ride at SD technical colleges (tuition, fees, books, tools) with a 3‑year in‑state work commitment. Typical application windows run Jan 1–Mar 31 through your technical college. (wdt.edu, builddakotascholarships.com)
• South Dakota Opportunity Scholarship provides up to $7,500 over four years for qualifying SD grads. Final application deadline each fall is September 1. (sdos.sdbor.edu)
• South Dakota Freedom Scholarship is need‑based and campus‑awarded (amounts vary; SDSU notes typical renewals of $3,000 when eligible). Complete FAFSA by your campus priority date. (sdstate.edu)
• Teaching track? Look at Dakota Corps (full tuition in critical‑need careers) and Critical Teaching Needs Scholarship (service‑payback). (state.sd.us, ourdakotadreams.com)
• Child care while you study: SD Child Care Assistance helps up to 209% FPL (e.g., family of 3 up to $4,642/mo, effective Mar 1, 2025). Apply online or via 800‑227‑3020. Decisions in about 10 business days. (dss.sd.gov)
• Need stop‑gap cash? TANF monthly maximums for a parent+kids household (independent living) include: 2 = $627\ast \ast ;3=\ast \ast$701. TANF also covers work‑related costs while you study toward work. Apply via DSS; see amounts table below. (dss.sd.gov)
• Talk to a person today: call South Dakota Job Service for WIOA training funds and career help: Sioux Falls 605‑367‑5300, Rapid City 605‑394‑2296, or find your local office. (dlr.sd.gov)
• Western SD single‑parent scholarship: Uplifting Parents (Catholic Social Services) offers mentoring plus up to $4,800 if you’re within 24 months of finishing. Call 605‑348‑6086. (dakotaathome.sd.gov)

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What this guide covers that others miss

• Exact 2025–26 grant amounts, income limits, deadlines, and phone numbers in South Dakota.
• Eligibility rules translated into plain steps, plus realistic timelines and “Plan B” if you’re denied.
• Verified state programs (Build Dakota, Freedom Scholarship, Opportunity Scholarship, Dakota Corps, Critical Teaching Needs) with official links—and childcare and TANF amounts you can count on. (builddakotascholarships.com, sdos.sdbor.edu, freedomscholarshipsd.com, state.sd.us, ourdakotadreams.com)

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet (bookmark this)

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How to win the money (fast)

Step 1 — File the FAFSA (do this even if you think you “make too much”)

• Why: It unlocks Pell, FSEOG, work‑study, TEACH, and many South Dakota funds like Freedom Scholarship. For 2025–26, most SD campuses list priority dates in March or early April (SDSU: March 1; USD: April 1). Filing after these dates is allowed but limits campus‑based aid. (sdstate.edu, usd.edu)
• Good news for next cycle: ED says the 2026–27 FAFSA will be on time by October 1, 2025. That helps you plan ahead. (ed.gov)
• Where to start: Complete the FAFSA at StudentAid.gov. Have your 2023 tax return, SSN, and school list ready. If another parent needs to contribute data, they’ll make their own FSA ID.
• Reality check: Expect ID verification or follow‑ups if your info doesn’t match IRS records. Keep letting aid letters arrive before making decisions.
• What to do if this doesn’t work: Call your campus financial aid office and ask about a “special circumstances” appeal if your 2024–25 or 2025 income dropped. Also ask for emergency grants on campus.

Step 2 — Target South Dakota’s biggest state scholarships

• Build Dakota: Full‑ride at SD technical colleges in high‑need programs (nursing, IT, industrial trades, more). Application windows typically Jan 1–Mar 31; colleges select and notify by late June. Commitment: live and work in SD in your field for 3 years. Apply through your technical college (Lake Area, Mitchell Tech, Southeast Tech, Western Dakota Tech). (wdt.edu, builddakotascholarships.com, mitchelltech.edu)
• SD Opportunity Scholarship: Up to $7,500 over four years for academically strong SD grads who meet coursework/ACT rules. Final fall deadline is September 1; earlier is better. Apply via the BOR portal. (sdos.sdbor.edu)
• SD Freedom Scholarship: Need‑based awards chosen by participating schools from FAFSA data; amounts vary. SDSU notes $3,000 renewals for returning awardees who meet GPA/pace and FAFSA by March 1. You don’t apply centrally—your school offers it if you qualify. (freedomscholarshipsd.com, sdstate.edu)
• Dakota Corps & Critical Teaching Needs Scholarship (CTNS): For teaching, nursing, and other critical‑need fields. Dakota Corps can cover full tuition in exchange for years of in‑state service after you graduate; CTNS supports upper‑division teacher‑ed students who commit to teach in designated shortage areas; the award is set by law and may not exceed certain tuition/fee limits, with a 5‑year service obligation (or it converts to a low‑interest loan). Apply early; spots are limited. (state.sd.us, law.justia.com)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: If you miss a campus priority date, still file FAFSA and ask to be wait‑listed for FSEOG/work‑study that reopens when others decline. Apply for county and tribal aid (see below) to bridge gaps.

Step 3 — Line up childcare and living support so you can finish

• SD Child Care Assistance: Covers a big share of care costs if your income is at or below 209% FPL (effective Mar 1, 2025). For a family of 3, that’s up to $4,642/month. Decisions are typically within 10 business days. Call 800‑227‑3020 or apply online; co‑pays depend on income. (dss.sd.gov)
• TANF: If you qualify, TANF can provide monthly cash plus work/education support like transportation, tools, GED fees, and more. Payment standards (independent living) include: 2 = $627\ast \ast ,3=\ast \ast$701, 4 = $775. Time limit is 60 months total. You must meet weekly work/education hours (usually 30; 20 if you have a child under age 6). Apply through DSS. (dss.sd.gov)
• SNAP for groceries: Maximum SNAP for a family of 4 in the lower 48 is $975/mo for FY 2025; SD follows the federal schedule. Income screens change each Oct 1. Apply online via DSS. For emergency food while you wait, use Feeding South Dakota’s Mobile Distribution calendar. (fns.usda.gov, dss.sd.gov, feedingsouthdakota.org)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 211 (or text your ZIP to 898211) to reach the Helpline Center for the closest childcare scholarships, food distributions, rent help, and utility aid. It’s 24/7 and statewide. (helplinecenter.org)

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Federal Grants that pay for school

Pell Grant (undergrads only)

• Amounts for 2025–26: Maximum $7,395\ast \ast ;minimum\ast \ast$740. Lifetime limit: 12 semesters. Your Pell is based on your Student Aid Index and family size; single‑parent status can help you qualify for maximum Pell. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
• How to apply: File the FAFSA. No separate application.
• Timeline: Aid lists show up a few weeks after your FAFSA is processed and your school packages you.
• What to do if this doesn’t work: If your SAI seems too high because of a one‑time income spike, ask your aid office for a professional judgment review.

FSEOG (Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant)

• Amount: Up to $4,000 per year; reserved for students with exceptional need, first to those with Pell. Funding is limited and campus‑based—apply early. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
• How to apply: FAFSA + meet your school’s priority date (often March 1 or April 1 in SD). (sdstate.edu, usd.edu)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your aid office to wait‑list you for FSEOG that reopens when others don’t enroll.

TEACH Grant (if you will teach high‑need subjects)

• Amount: Scheduled $4,000\ast \ast ,butfederalsequestrationreduces2025–26disbursementsto\ast \ast$3,772 when first paid between Oct 1, 2025–Sept 30, 2026. You must teach 4 years in a high‑need subject at a low‑income school or it becomes a loan. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
• How to apply: FAFSA + TEACH counseling and Agreement to Serve at your school.
• What to do if this doesn’t work: Pair with SD’s Critical Teaching Needs Scholarship or Dakota Corps for extra coverage. (ourdakotadreams.com)

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South Dakota’s biggest education scholarships and grants

Build Dakota Scholarship (technical college “free ride”)

• What it covers: 100% of tuition, fees, books, program tools/technology for eligible programs at South Dakota’s four technical colleges. Recipients must work in‑state in their field for 3 years after graduation. (builddakotascholarships.com)
• Application window: Historically Jan 1–Mar 31 via your technical college; Western Dakota Tech posted Jan 1–Mar 31, 2025. Colleges notify by late June. (wdt.edu)
• Real world example: Southeast Technical College awarded 172 full‑ride Build Dakota scholarships in 2025—the most ever at STC—showing demand and real placements. (southeasttech.edu)
• Where to apply: Start with your program’s college page (Lake Area, Mitchell Tech, Southeast Tech, Western Dakota Tech) or the statewide site. (mitchelltech.edu, southeasttech.edu)
• Required documents: College admission, FAFSA (often requested), program acceptance, and sometimes an industry sponsor agreement.
• Timeline reality: Competitive; some programs fill early. Apply by January if possible.
• What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your Job Service office about WIOA tuition help for eligible “in‑demand” programs on the state’s Eligible Training Provider List. (dlr.sd.gov)

South Dakota Opportunity Scholarship

• Amount: Up to $7,500 over 4 years for qualifying SD grads attending an eligible SD college/university/technical college. (sdos.sdbor.edu)
• Eligibility basics: SD resident, academic requirements (coursework + ACT/SAT thresholds). Final deadline typically September 1 (submit earlier for smoother packaging). Rules are in state code and BOR FAQs. (sdos.sdbor.edu, sdlegislature.gov)
• Where to apply: BOR Scholarship Portal. (sdbor.scholarships.ngwebsolutions.com)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: Consider campus merit funds and private scholarships; ask about the Board of Regents’ Needs‑Based Scholarship Grant ($500–$2,000) awarded by campuses to close small gaps. (sdbor.edu, sdbor.scholarships.ngwebsolutions.com)

South Dakota Freedom Scholarship (need‑based, bachelor’s)

• Amount: Varies by institution and need; SDSU indicates $3,000 for eligible returning students who meet criteria (GPA, 5‑year completion path, FAFSA by March 1). Schools select recipients from FAFSA data. (sdstate.edu)
• Where to learn more: Statewide info and participating schools list at the official site. (freedomscholarshipsd.com)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your aid office about SDEAF (SD Education Access Foundation) campus grants or emergency funds; these are administered locally. (sdcommunityfoundation.org)

Dakota Corps Scholarship

• Amount: Up to full tuition (remaining tuition/fees covered through institutional scholarships/waivers) if you commit to work in a SD critical‑need occupation after graduation (years of service = years of award + 1). Competitive selection. (state.sd.us)
• Eligibility highlights: SD high school grad, ACT/SAT/GPA thresholds, admitted to an eligible SD school, written service commitment. (state.sd.us)
• Where to start: Dakota Corps info and eligible majors via the state portal; call 605‑773‑3455 (BOR Scholarships) with questions. (sdbor.edu)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: Re‑aim at Build Dakota (for technical fields) or CTNS (for teaching) and stack with federal aid. (builddakotascholarships.com, ourdakotadreams.com)

Critical Teaching Needs Scholarship (CTNS)

• Amount and terms: Award varies by law and cannot exceed specified tuition/fee thresholds; you agree to teach in SD in a critical shortage area for 5 years or the scholarship converts to a low‑interest loan. Open mainly to rising juniors/seniors in teacher‑ed. (law.justia.com, ourdakotadreams.com)
• Where to apply: BOR Scholarship Application Portal. Check posts from your campus School of Education for yearly deadlines. (sdbor.scholarships.ngwebsolutions.com, northern.edu)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: Pair TEACH Grant ($3,772 in FY26) with campus scholarships for teacher‑ed majors. (fsapartners.ed.gov)

For Native/Tribal citizens

• Richard Hagen–Minerva Harvey Scholarship: Up to $6,000\ast \ast overfouryearsforenrolledmembersofAmericanIndiantribesattendingSDinstitutions,withsetannualminimumsbyyear(e.g.,\ast \ast$1,000, $1,000\ast \ast ,\ast \ast$1,500, $2,500). Deadlines typically late winter (e.g., Feb 28, 2025). (doe.sd.gov)
• Tribal Higher Education Grants: Contact your tribe’s education office; many have fixed deadlines (often June/Nov). Examples: Oglala Sioux Tribe Higher Ed (605‑867‑5338), Rosebud Sioux Tribe Higher Education (605‑747‑2375), Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate (605‑742‑0150), Yankton Sioux Tribe (605‑384‑3382), Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe (605‑964‑7880). Most require FAFSA, proof of enrollment, transcripts, and a Financial Needs Analysis from your college. (olc.edu, rst-education-department.com, swo-nsn.gov, yanktonsiouxtribe.net, crsteducationservices.com)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask tribal education staff about Johnson‑O’Malley, BIE scholarships, and emergency student assistance at your tribal or state college.

Local nonprofit support worth your time

• Uplifting Parents (Western SD): Up to $4,800 plus mentoring for single parents within 6–24 months of finishing a degree/certificate. Call 605‑348‑6086 or see eligibility online. (dakotaathome.sd.gov)
• AAUW South Dakota local scholarships (West River women, often STEM): Awards such as $2,000\ast \ast STEMor\ast \ast$1,000 STRIVE, deadlines vary. Check current year’s details. (aauw-sd.aauw.net)
• Feeding South Dakota: While not a tuition grant, it can free up grocery money during semesters; mobile distributions across all 66 counties. (feedingsouthdakota.org)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 211 for a local scholarship roundup and tuition emergency aid referral. (helplinecenter.org)

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Key income limits and benefit amounts (2025)

SD Child Care Assistance income limits (effective March 1, 2025)

Source: SD DSS Child Care Assistance “Am I Eligible”. Decisions within 10 working days after a complete application. (dss.sd.gov)

SD TANF monthly payment standard (parent in home; independent living)

Source: SD DSS TANF. TANF includes work/education supports like transportation, work clothes, and GED testing fees. (dss.sd.gov)

FAFSA and campus priority dates (2025–26)

Federal grant amounts you can bank on (2025–26)

Who to call for local, real help (keep this list)

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How to apply (fast) and what to upload

• FAFSA (StudentAid.gov): photo ID, 2023 federal tax return/W‑2, SSNs, list of SD schools, bank/asset info (if requested). Priority: SDSU Mar 1, USD Apr 1, tech colleges Mar–Apr. (sdstate.edu, usd.edu, mappingyourfuture.org)
• Build Dakota: program admission, FAFSA, transcripts, resume; some applicants line up an industry sponsor (not required to apply). Expect decisions before June 30. (builddakotascholarships.com)
• Opportunity Scholarship: final deadline Sept 1; needs transcripts, ACT/SAT. Apply on BOR portal. (sdos.sdbor.edu, sdbor.scholarships.ngwebsolutions.com)
• Freedom Scholarship: no separate application; complete FAFSA by your campus priority date; check your aid offer for inclusion. (freedomscholarshipsd.com)
• Dakota Corps/CTNS: application, essays, transcripts; you must sign a service commitment. (state.sd.us, ourdakotadreams.com)

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Realistic timelines

• FAFSA to aid offer: usually 2–4 weeks once processed, but campus priority queues matter.
• Build Dakota: Apply Jan–Mar; selection by late June; starts fall. (builddakotascholarships.com)
• Opportunity Scholarship: Submit by Sept 1 for fall‑start; funds package as part of your first term. (sdos.sdbor.edu)
• Child Care Assistance: DSS processes complete apps within 10 working days; your provider bills DSS after your certificate is issued. (dss.sd.gov)

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Common mistakes to avoid

• Waiting on FAFSA. Late filers miss FSEOG/work‑study/Freedom Scholarship consideration. File by your campus priority date (SDSU Mar 1, USD Apr 1). (sdstate.edu, usd.edu)
• Skipping technical programs. Build Dakota is truly full‑ride but requires early action and a 3‑year work commitment. (builddakotascholarships.com)
• Not claiming single‑parent status correctly on FAFSA. The FAFSA determines “Who’s my parent?”—use ED’s tool to avoid errors.
• Ignoring childcare help. With eligibility up to 209% FPL, many working student parents qualify but don’t apply. (dss.sd.gov)
• Missing service obligations. TEACH, CTNS, and Dakota Corps convert to loans if you don’t meet service requirements. Read the agreement. (fsapartners.ed.gov, state.sd.us)

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Application Checklist (print this)

• Government ID and Social Security numbers for you and child(ren) if asked.
• 2023 tax return and W‑2s (for FAFSA 2025–26), plus untaxed income docs.
• Proof of SD residency (driver’s license, lease, utility bill).
• School acceptance letter(s) and program plan.
• Transcripts/GED; for Opportunity/CTNS/Dakota Corps, include ACT/SAT.
• For Child Care Assistance: provider info (licensed/registered or approved relative), work/school schedule, and income proofs; keep the caseworker’s name and 800‑227‑3020 handy. (dss.sd.gov)
• For TANF: bring income info, rent/utility bills, IDs, and be ready to meet an Employment Specialist for your work/education plan. (dss.sd.gov)

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Plan B options if grants aren’t enough

• WIOA training funds (DLR Job Service): can cover tuition/fees/books for approved in‑demand programs on the SD Eligible Training Provider List; support services like childcare/transport can be included. Call your local office to screen. (dlr.sd.gov)
• Vocational Rehabilitation (if you have a disability): May assist with tuition, fees, books, equipment, and job placement for eligible individuals. Statewide toll‑free 800‑265‑9684; local offices listed by DHS. (askjan.org, bhr.sd.gov)
• SNAP to offset grocery costs while studying (apply online via DSS). Maximum allotments update each October; FY 2025 4‑person max is $975. (fns.usda.gov)
• 211 Helpline: live navigators 24/7; text your ZIP to 898211 for links to rent, utilities, diapers, transportation, emergency assistance, and local scholarship leads. (helplinecenter.org)

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Diverse Communities: tailored pointers that unlock funds

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: Most state grants are gender/identity‑neutral; list your household composition accurately on FAFSA to maximize need‑based aid. 211 can connect you to affirming local support programs and childcare providers.
• Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children: Call SD Vocational Rehabilitation (800‑265‑9684) for possible tuition/books/equipment assistance tied to an employment plan; ask DSS about higher childcare need authorizations. (askjan.org)
• Veteran single mothers: Use federal GI Bill first, then stack Pell/FSEOG and SD Freedom Scholarship. The BOR lists reduced tuition options for military families. (sdbor.edu)
• Immigrant/refugee single moms (eligible non‑citizens): If you meet federal criteria, you can file FAFSA. For language access, DSS and 211 offer free interpreters; text ZIP to 898211. (helplinecenter.org)
• Tribal‑specific resources: Apply to your tribal Higher Education office (OST, RST, SWO, YST, CRST) on top of state/federal aid; many require June/Nov deadlines and a Financial Needs Analysis form from your college. See contact list above. (olc.edu, rst-education-department.com)
• Rural moms with limited internet/transport: Every Job Service office has free public Wi‑Fi and can meet virtually; FAFSA can be done by phone with campus aid staff. Some DSS and 211 services accept documents by email or fax. (dlr.sd.gov)
• Single fathers: All programs here (Pell, Build Dakota, Child Care Assistance, TANF) apply equally to single dads who meet the same rules.
• Language access: 211 provides interpreter services; DSS offers translations and disability accommodations. (doh.sd.gov)

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Resources by region (examples)

• Sioux Falls: Job Service 605‑367‑5300; Minnehaha County Human Services 605‑367‑4217 for emergency assistance; Feeding South Dakota mobile distributions run monthly. (dlr.sd.gov, minnehahacounty.gov, feedingsouthdakota.org)
• Rapid City / Black Hills: Job Service 605‑394‑2296; Uplifting Parents (CSS) 605‑348‑6086; check Western Dakota Tech and South Dakota Mines aid pages for campus funds. (dlr.sd.gov, cssrapidcity.com)
• Aberdeen / Watertown / Huron / Yankton / Pierre / Spearfish / Vermillion: Call your listed Job Service office (see directory) for WIOA tuition help and workshops. (dlr.sd.gov)
• Reservations and Tribal Colleges: Contact your tribe’s Higher Education office early (many deadlines are in June and November), and check Sinte Gleska University, Oglala Lakota College, and Sisseton Wahpeton College financial aid offices for campus‑based grants. (olc.edu, swcollege.edu)

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Real‑world examples

• Build Dakota nursing student at Southeast Tech: Full tuition and tools covered; signed with a local employer and started paid clinical hours her final term. STC awarded 172 full‑rides in 2025, showing strong employer‑sponsored pathways. (southeasttech.edu)
• SDSU parent received Pell + FSEOG + Freedom Scholarship: Filing FAFSA before March 1 made the difference; the package included campus‑based funds that often run out after priority date. (sdstate.edu)
• Western SD single parent in final 18 months: Combined Uplifting Parents stipend (up to $4,800) with WIOA book coverage and DSS childcare—finished on time. (dakotaathome.sd.gov, dlr.sd.gov, dss.sd.gov)

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What if you’re told “no”?

• Appeal politely, in writing. For FAFSA‑based aid, request a “professional judgment” if your recent income fell or you have unusual costs (childcare, medical).
• Ask your aid office for a short‑term, no‑interest tuition payment plan while new aid is reviewed.
• Re‑route to WIOA training funds for eligible programs, or choose a Build Dakota‑eligible program if a full four‑year path isn’t affordable right now. (dlr.sd.gov, builddakotascholarships.com)
• Use 211 to fill food/utility gaps this month while you wait for decisions. (helplinecenter.org)

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10 South Dakota‑specific FAQs

• Do I have to repay grants like Pell, FSEOG, Freedom, or Build Dakota?
  No. These are grants or scholarships. You must meet enrollment/service requirements (Build Dakota/Dakota Corps/CTNS have service commitments; TEACH becomes a loan if you don’t teach as required). (builddakotascholarships.com, state.sd.us, fsapartners.ed.gov)
• What is the 2025–26 Pell maximum?
  $7,395\ast \ast .Minimum\ast \ast$740. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
• When should I file the FAFSA for 2026–27?
  ED says it will launch on time by October 1, 2025. For 2025–26, SDSU priority was Mar 1 and USD Apr 1. (ed.gov, sdstate.edu, usd.edu)
• Are there South Dakota grants for single parents specifically?
  State grants are not parent‑status specific, but Western SD’s Uplifting Parents offers up to $4,800 for single parents close to finishing. (dakotaathome.sd.gov)
• Can TANF help while I’m in school?
  Yes—TANF is a work‑first program, but approved education/training can count; TANF also helps with transportation, work clothes, and fees. Payment standards are in the table above. (dss.sd.gov)
• Who decides Freedom Scholarship awards?
  Your campus financial aid office, using FAFSA data and state criteria; example renewal at SDSU is $3,000 for eligible returning students. (sdstate.edu)
• I’m a future teacher—what’s best: TEACH Grant, CTNS, or Dakota Corps?
  You can stack TEACH ($3,772 FY26) with CTNS or apply to Dakota Corps (full tuition) if you accept service obligations. Compare commitments and amounts. (fsapartners.ed.gov, state.sd.us)
• I need childcare to take night classes. Am I eligible?
  Possibly—CCAP goes up to 209% FPL; co‑pays vary by income. Apply with DSS; decisions within 10 working days. (dss.sd.gov)
• Where do I get help choosing a training program that’s actually funded?
  Call your Job Service office and ask about WIOA‑approved programs on the Eligible Training Provider List; funding depends on need and availability. (dlr.sd.gov)
• I’m a tribal citizen—do I apply to the tribe and the state?
  Yes. File FAFSA, apply for state/campus aid, and submit your tribal Higher Education application by tribal deadlines (often June/Nov). See phone list above. (olc.edu)

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“If nothing else, do these three things this week”

• File the FAFSA (even late) and email your aid office to confirm they received it and to ask about priority‑fund wait lists.
• Call your nearest Job Service office to screen for WIOA tuition help and supportive services (childcare/transport). (dlr.sd.gov)
• Apply for SD Child Care Assistance if you’re anywhere near 209% FPL—it changes what’s possible semester to semester. (dss.sd.gov)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from the South Dakota Board of Regents, South Dakota Department of Social Services, South Dakota Department of Labor & Regulation, U.S. Department of Education, USDA, and established nonprofits like the Helpline Center and Catholic Social Services. It follows our Editorial Standards, which include primary‑source verification, link testing, archiving, and change tracking. We review statewide guides at least every 8 months and update policy changes within 48 hours when confirmed. Last verified September 2025; next review April 2026. Questions or corrections? Email info@asinglemother.org.

Editorial methodology and accuracy commitments: see ASingleMother.org Editorial Policy. (Updated August 2025.)

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Disclaimer

• Program amounts, eligibility rules, and deadlines can change. Always confirm details with the agency or college before you apply or enroll.
• This guide is informational and not legal advice. We are independent and not affiliated with any government agency. We cannot guarantee individual outcomes.
• Site safety: Never share your full SSN or birth certificate by email or text. Use official portals (StudentAid.gov, state agency sites) and verified campus pages. If a link looks broken or suspicious, report it to info@asinglemother.org and we’ll fix it within 24–48 hours per our policy.

— End of guide —

References (selected)

• Federal Pell Grant amounts and rules for 2025–26 (GEN‑25‑02). (fsapartners.ed.gov)
• FSEOG maximum and campus‑based nature. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
• TEACH Grant sequestration for FY26, award = $3,772. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
• FAFSA 2026–27 on‑time launch by Oct 1, 2025 (ED press release). (ed.gov)
• SDSU FAFSA priority date March 1, 2025; USD April 1, 2025. (sdstate.edu, usd.edu)
• Build Dakota full‑ride scope and 2025 application window (WDT example). (builddakotascholarships.com, wdt.edu)
• SD Opportunity Scholarship up to $7,500; final deadline Sept 1. (sdos.sdbor.edu)
• SD Freedom Scholarship structure and example renewal amount. (freedomscholarshipsd.com, sdstate.edu)
• DSS Child Care Assistance at 209% FPL (effective Mar 1, 2025) and application timeline. (dss.sd.gov)
• TANF payment standards and work supports. (dss.sd.gov)
• SNAP FY2025 maximums and DSS application page. (fns.usda.gov, dss.sd.gov)
• Job Service office directory and phone numbers. (dlr.sd.gov)
• Uplifting Parents stipend up to $4,800 and contact. (dakotaathome.sd.gov)
• Tribal Higher Ed contacts (OST, RST, SWO, YST, CRST). (olc.edu, rst-education-department.com, swo-nsn.gov, crsteducationservices.com)
• 211 Helpline contact options and statewide availability. (helplinecenter.org)

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🏛️More South Dakota Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in South Dakota

• 📋 Assistance Programs
• 💰 Benefits and Grants
• 👨‍👩‍👧 Child Support
• 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
• ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
• 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
• 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
• 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
• 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
• 🔧 Job Training
• ⚖️ Legal Help
• 🧠 Mental Health Resources
• 🚗 Transportation Assistance
• 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
• ⚡ Utility Assistance
• 🥛 WIC Benefits
• 🏦 TANF Assistance
• 🏠 Housing Assistance
• 👶 Childcare Assistance
• 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
• 🚨 Emergency Assistance
• 🤝 Community Support
• 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
• 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
• 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
• 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
• 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
• 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
• 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
• 👩‍💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
• 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
• 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
• 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
• 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
• 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery