Grants usually are awarded on the basis of financial need. You must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to apply for federal grants.
Federal Pell Grant
Pell Grants, available to undergraduate students, don't have to be repaid. Eligibility is based on need and determined by your EFC listed on your Student Aid Report. The amount of your Pell Grant will be reduced if you are not enrolled full time. If your EFC is high, you may not qualify for a Pell Grant if you are enrolled less than full time. Your eligibility will be calculated based on your enrollment at the end of the add/drop period each term.
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (SEOG)
A grant program available to undergraduate students pursuing their first bachelor's degree who are enrolled in at least six credit hours. Priority is given to the neediest students and Federal Pell Grant recipients.
Teacher Education Assistance for College & Higher Education Grant (TEACH Grant)
This grant program provides up to $4,000 per year for both undergraduate and graduate students. Students must be majoring in education and have at least a 3.25 grade point average (and maintain that average for every semester of eligibility), or score in the top 75th percentile on an admissions test such as ACT, SAT, or GRE.
Students must teach full time for at least four years within eight years of completing a program as a highly qualified teacher; at a school or educational service agency that serves low-income students; in a specified subject area (mathematics, science, a foreign language, bilingual education, special education, as a reading specialist, or other high need fields). If service is not met, the grant must be repaid as an Unsubsidized Stafford Loan, with interest from the date(s) of original disbursement.
To apply for a TEACH Grant, complete the TEACH Grant Application.
South Dakota Education Access Foundation Grant
The South Dakota Education Access Foundation Grant (SDEAF Grant) is a private grant program available to undergraduate students who show need and meet eligibility requirements as determined by the institution. Must be enrolled at least half-time and submit a FAFSA.
South Dakota Need-Based Grant
The South Dakota Need-Based Grant (SDNBG) is a state grant program awarded to undergraduate South Dakota residents enrolled at least half-time. Awards range from $500-$2,000. FAFSA must be submitted to determine eligibility.
Students attending Northern from outside South Dakota are encouraged to contact their local state agency for information regarding the availability of grant assistance from their home state.