What financial aid is available for private school in South Dakota?

South Dakota has 2 financial aid programs for private school: Partners in Education Tax Credit: Insurance company-funded scholarships for low-income students (200% FPL). School-based financial aid: Catholic Diocese of Sioux Falls and Rapid City provide tuition assistance. About 28% of private school families in South Dakota receive some form of tuition reduction.

How much does private school cost in South Dakota?

Average private school tuition in South Dakota is $5,600/year. With financial aid, the average family pays significantly less. 28% of families receive some form of aid.

Tax Credit Scholarships Available

Private School Financial Aid in South Dakota

2026 programs, income limits, and how to apply

South Dakota has no state voucher program, but 28% of private school families still get aid through tax credit scholarships and school-based financial assistance. Average tuition: $5,600/year.

Avg Tuition

$5,600

per year

Aid Programs

available

Families Aided

28%

receive some aid

Avg Aid Award

$2,600

need-based

Check Your Eligibility

Enter your household income to see which South Dakota programs you might qualify for.

Annual household income ($)

School-age children

Gross income before taxes. Income limits shown for a family of 4; actual limits scale with household size.

South Dakota Financial Aid Programs

All available programs for private school families in 2026

Partners in Education Tax Credit

Insurance company-funded scholarships for low-income students (200% FPL)

Income limit: $58,000/year (family of 4)

$4,000

/year max

School-based financial aid

Catholic Diocese of Sioux Falls and Rapid City provide tuition assistance

Varies

by school

The Full Picture in South Dakota

South Dakota has a small insurance premium tax credit that funds SGO scholarships for low-income families. The private school sector is small and almost entirely faith-based. The good news: average tuition is only $5,600 — among the lowest in the country. Catholic schools in the Sioux Falls and Rapid City dioceses offer parish discounts. Many families can afford private school without significant aid.

How to Apply for Aid in South Dakota

Apply for state programs first

Apply through your state's scholarship-granting organizations (SGOs) for tax credit scholarships. These have the biggest awards.

Apply for school-based aid at every school

Most schools use TADS, FACTS, or SSS for financial aid assessment. Apply by January-February for the following school year. School aid stacks with state programs.

Check private scholarship organizations

Local nonprofits, community foundations, and religious organizations often provide additional scholarships. Search "[your city] private school scholarships" for local options.