South Dakota EducationSD Opportunity Scholarship Guide
Table of Contents
What is the Opportunity Scholarship?
The South Dakota Opportunity Scholarship (SDOS) is a state-funded, merit-based scholarship program established to encourage high-achieving high school graduates to attend college in South Dakota. The scholarship provides up to $7,500 total over four years ($1,500 for each of the first three years, and $3,000 for the fourth year) to eligible students attending a participating university, technical college, or private college in the state.
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Academic and Testing Requirements
To qualify for the SDOS, high school graduates must meet strict academic benchmarks:
- Achieve a composite score of 24 or higher on the ACT (or equivalent SAT score).
- Maintain a cumulative high school GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale.
- Have no grade below a "C" in the required high school curriculum coursework.
The Required Curriculum Track
Applicants must complete the "Regents Scholar" curriculum track in high school. This course track includes:
- English: 4 units (grammar, composition, literature).
- Science: 4 units (including biology, chemistry, and physics).
- Mathematics: 4 units (Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry, and advanced math).
- Social Science: 3 units (history, government, geography).
- World Language: 2 units of the same foreign language.
- Fine Arts: 1 unit (art, music, or theater).
Maintaining the Scholarship in College
Getting the scholarship is only the first step; students must also maintain eligibility throughout college. Recipients must maintain a cumulative college GPA of 3.0 or higher, remain continuously enrolled as full-time students (minimum of 30 credit hours per academic year), and progress toward their degree within the four-year limit.
How and When to Apply
Students should apply during their senior year of high school. The application form is available from high school guidance offices or online via the South Dakota Board of Regents website. The application requires official high school transcripts, ACT score reports, and the signature of a school official. The priority deadline is typically September 1 for fall semester enrollment.