Financial Aid

 

Hello from BHSU Student Financial Aid Team!

Because most college students receive some type of financial aid, it is a worthwhile effort for your family to explore all possible options. And we’re here to help! This includes loans, grants, scholarships, and work-study provided through federal, state, institutional, and local resources.  

Financial aid can be awarded based on financial need or merit, which considers high school academic performance, and can encompass a wide range of assistance - from loans that must be repaid, to grants and scholarships that are gifts, to work-study opportunities that enable students to earn money. 

Two BHSU students sitting on the stairs of Woodburn Hall.

Office Info

Hours:
  • School Year: 8am to 5pm
  • Summer: 7:30am to 4:30pm
Location:
  • Spearfish Campus: Woodburn 114
  • BHSU - Rapid City: 114
Phone: 
  • 605.642.6145

Email: 

Mailing Address: 
  • Student Financial Aid Office
    1200 University Street, Unit 9670
    Spearfish, SD 57799-9670

Feel free to reach out to us, and we will help you in any way we can. We are available for meetings in person, virtually, or by phone. Please call or email to arrange an appointment. Be sure to have your student ID number handy.
Quick Links

Check out some resources we've put together.

Types & Sources of Financial Aid Apply for Scholarships FAQ FAFSA FAQ Forms Scholarships Alternative Loans

 

 

Types & Sources of Financial Aid

At Black Hills State University, we understand that funding your education can often be confusing and overwhelming. In this section you can explore the types and sources of aid to help you and your family navigate the differences between loans, grants, and other aid. We will work with you to find the best individualized way to pay for your education. We have trained financial aid personnel who have years of experience in student financial aid to help you with any questions you have about grants, work-study, or loans.

 

Scholarships

Apply for Scholarships

​

BHSU’s Scholarships of Distinction program awards merit scholarships of up to $4,000 per year to qualifying new first-time undergraduate students, while funds are available.

Awards Based On:
Unweighted High School GPA and ACT/SAT Composite Scores or a Test Optional pathway.

Requirements:
- Apply for admission to BHSU prior to February 1st.
- First-time undergraduate students only (no prior attendance at any college or university, after
   high school graduation).
- Seeking a degree from BHSU (Non-degree seeking are not eligible).

A detailed grid chart from Black Hills State University titled "Scholarships of Distinction," with the university logo in the corner. The chart outlines annual scholarship amounts based on a student's qualifications. The vertical axis shows "High School Unweighted GPA" ranging from 2.80 to 4.0+. The horizontal axis shows test scores, with "ACT" scores ranging from 19 to 36 and the corresponding "SAT" score ranges listed below them. The scholarship levels are color-coded and based on the intersection of GPA and test score: Platinum - $4000: Requires a GPA of 3.95-4.0+ and an ACT of 33-36 (SAT 1450-1600). Gold - $3000: Requires a GPA between 3.70 and 4.0+ and an ACT between 30 and 34. Silver - $2000: Requires a GPA between 3.35 and 4.0+ and an ACT between 26 and 32. Bronze - $1000: Requires a GPA between 2.80 and 3.80 and an ACT between 21 and 29. A separate key on the far right details "Test Optional" awards based solely on GPA: $3000 for a 4.0+ GPA. $2000 for a GPA between 3.85 and 3.95. $1000 for a GPA between 3.50 and 3.80.

Download Scholarships of Distinction Information

Frequently Asked Questions

Although credentials at the time of your admission are used to evaluate your scholarship qualifications, you may contact the BHSU Admissions Office to request your scholarship file be re-evaluated, based on your updated credentials.
Note: Your award amount may increase based on the updated information, but only if funds are available.

Funds are made possible through the generosity of BHSU Foundation donors and/or other institutional aid. Specific funding sources may vary. At your time of enrollment you may see one or multiple donors listed in order to fulfill the scholarship award amount.

Maximum of 8 undergraduate semesters.
Maintaining a cumulative 3.0 GPA and completing 30 credit hours of BHSU coursework per academic year is required.
Maintaining Satisfactory Academic Progress is also required.

ACT or SAT scores may be used, as long as the test was taken no later than the summer immediately following high school graduation. ACT Composite, ACT Superscore Composite (official, as reported from ACT), or SAT Composite (total of SAT Math + SAT Evidence Based REading and Writing) may be used.

 

Application:
BHSU offers scholarships to support both new and continuing students. These scholarship opportunities are made possible by our generous donors.
You will not need to submit a separate application for each award opportunity. Simply complete the single application to be considered for all possible awards. Follow the link below, click "Students" and then click either New, Transfer, or Current student and complete the application.

Jacket Scholarship Portal

Important Dates and Deadlines:

  • The deadline to submit the New/Transfer Student scholarship application is .
  • Priority deadline for current student applications is February 1.
  • Any application submitted after  may be placed on a waiting list. Please note that scholarships may be awarded up to one year in advance, so be sure to meet listed deadlines.

Links:

Dr. James Hess, professor of psychology and chair of the School of Behavioral Sciences at Black Hills State University, pledged a $1 million gift to BHSU to establish the School of Behavioral Sciences Make a Difference Initiative. In exchange for scholarship funds, students will be challenged to plan and implement sustainable community projects designed to make a difference in the lives of others.

Application

How Much Will Be Awarded?
Full, in-state tuition scholarships can be awarded. In addition to the scholarship, each recipient will receive up to $2,500 for student projects.

Who Can Apply?
Awarded to selected students with a declared major in Exercise Science, Outdoor Education, Psychology, Sociology, or Human Services. Students must be a sophomore or above with a minimum GPA of 3.0. The student must propose a project designed to benefit the local or campus community.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Fill Out the Application
Below are a series of videos designed to guide you through the process of filling out the Make a Difference Initiative application. Each video offers clear, step-by-step instructions to ensure that you complete your application accurately and confidently. The sample application used in the videos will also be attached below. Use these resources as a guide as you are filling out your own application.

Sample Application

MADI Application Video Guide Pt. 1: Questions 1-6

MADI Application Video Guide Pt. 2: Questions 1-2 of the Project Proposal

MADI Application Video Guide Pt. 3: Question 3 of the Project Proposal

MADI Application Video Guide Pt. 4: Questions 4-6 of the Project Proposal

MADI Application Video Guide Pt. 5: Questions 7 and 8 of the Project Proposal

What Is the Application Process?

  • Complete the application linked at the top of the page. We strongly recommend that you meet with a faculty member in your major well ahead of the March 1 early deadline to review your application. See faculty office doors for scheduled office hours.
  • Revise and email the application by March 1 to your faculty advisor, who will forward it to the MADI committee chair.
  • Winners will be announced in late March or early April. 
  • A reception for successful applicants will be held in April. 

Donate!
To contribute to the Make a Difference Initiative, contact Black Hills State University Advancement at 605.642.6385.

Need More Information?
Contact any of these MADI Committee Members well ahead of the deadline for information and application assistance!

(12 awards at $12,500 each)

The Horatio Alger Denny Sanford Scholarship provides a $12,500 scholarship to be disbursed throughout a student’s collegiate career. Like all Horatio Alger Scholarships, the Horatio Alger Denny Sanford scholarship assists high school students who have faced great obstacles in their young lives to overcome their adversities, attend a post-secondary institution, and achieve success.

Application

To be eligible for the Horatio Alger Denny Sanford Scholarship a student must meet the following criteria:

  • Be committed to complete a bachelor’s degree at Black Hills State University
  • Be a current high school senior with plans to enroll in college Fall 2025
  • Demonstrate critical financial need ($65,000 or less family income required)
  • Display integrity and perseverance in overcoming adversity
  • Maintain a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 2.5
  • Be a United States citizen
  • Application available  - .

The Joseph F. and Martha P. Nelson Scholarship award is available to a high school senior/graduate who has not previously attended a post-secondary institution. The scholarship is worth $40,000 over four years. It is renewable without reapplying, provided the student maintains the required academic performance. The Nelson Scholarship has a  submission deadline.

Application

To Be Eligible:

  • Major(s): Biology, chemistry, physical science, environmental physical science or mathematics
  • Be in the upper 10% of his/her class rank
  • Attain a minimum ACT composite score of 28 or SAT of 1,260
  • Must have completed at least three years of both mathematics and laboratory science, with a fourth year in one area, with all grades of B or higher.
  • Academic Level: Freshman
  • Enrollment Level: Full Time
  • GPA: 3.00

To Recieive Renewal, the Student Must:

  • Maintain a major in biology, chemistry, physical science, environmental physical science, or mathematics
  • Maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of
  • 3.0 after the first two semesters
  • 3.2 after the third and fourth semesters
  • 3.4 after the fifth, sixth, and seventh semesters
  • Successfully complete 30 credit hours of coursework during each academic year and include courses within the major.

Submit a high school transcript with ACT scores.

Submit a typed statement that identifies your academic and professional goals, describes how attending Black Hills State University can help you attain those goals, and address how you foresee your contribution to the Black Hills State University community.

Obtain three letters of recommendation, with at least one being from a math or science teacher. (each letter should be placed in an individually sealed envelope and returned to the applicant. The applicant should then submit the letters together with the other application materials).

The Hatterscheidt Scholarship is a one-year award valued at $2,500. These selective application-based scholarships are awarded annually to seniors graduating from South Dakota high schools who meet the following minimum requirements.

  • Must be a South Dakota resident and graduate from a South Dakota high school
  • Show financial need and apply for Federal Student Aid through the FAFSA
  • Minimum high school GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
  • Be accepted for admission to Black Hills State University
  • Attend the Spearfish main campus of BHSU full time (minimum 12 credit hours)

To apply for a Hatterscheidt Scholarship, please complete, print, and submit the following form: 

This application may have accessibility limitations due to its specialized nature. Assistance is available to ensure all students can access this scholarship opportunity. For support, please contact the Financial Aid Office at BHSUFinancial@bhsu.edu or call 605-642-6145 for assistance. We are committed to providing comparable educational experiences for all students.

Application

Completed applications will include the following items:

  • Application form (signed by applicant and parents)
  • Financial information
  • High school transcript
  • Autobiography (no more than 200 words)
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Due Date: , but earlier submission is recommended

After completing and printing the above forms, please send your completed application to the following address:

Black Hills State University Financial Aid
1200 University St. Unit 9670
Spearfish, SD 57799-9670

For questions regarding the Hatterscheidt Scholarship, please contact BHSUFinancial@bhsu.edu or call 605-642-6145.

The South Dakota Opportunity Scholarship is available to eligible South Dakota residents that have an ACT composite or superscores of 24 or SAT of 1180; completed specific high school curriculum requirements with a grade of "C" higher; and a cumulative high school GPA of a 3.0 or higher.  This award is worth $7,500 total, over four years.  Students can apply for and learn more about this scholarship by visiting the Board of Regents page on the South Dakota Opportunity Scholarship. 

Auditions are held in February. Freshmen and new applicants must perform live auditions or record two contrasting pieces and send to the BHSU music department by . Music Scholarship recipients represent excellence in music as evidenced by experience in music and demonstrated commitment to playing an instrument and/or singing. Live auditions are held in February of each year. However, you may submit a video audition or a link directing us to your YouTube video for consideration. If possible, perform works or excerpts in two contrasting styles. Early deadline is . Scholarship applications are accepted year-round for the upcoming Fall class (scholarships awarded based on scholarship dollars available). Preference will be given to Music Majors and Minors.

Application

S-STEM Scholars Program Logo for the National Science Foundation Scholarships in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Program.

Program Overview

The S-STEM Scholars Program is designed to support students' academic success by connecting them with a cohort of motivated STEM students who provide encouragement, collaboration, and peer support throughout their college experience.

As part of the program, S-STEM Scholars are co-enrolled in one of their first-year science or mathematics courses, helping to foster academic collaboration, strengthen study networks, and build a sense of community within BHSU's STEM programs. Scholars also receive personalized support through one-on-one advising from a professional academic advisor and mentorship from a STEM faculty member.

In addition, students participate in a specialized section of General Studies 100 (GS 100), where they explore STEM career pathways, develop professional skills, and build valuable connections with faculty,

peers, and industry professionals.

 

The S-STEM Scholars Program serves students with demonstrated financial need who have a passion for STEM and show strong potential for success in STEM-related careers.

This program is funded through the National Science Foundation's Scholarships in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (S-STEM) Program (Division of Undergraduate Education, Award #2221350 and #2619567).

 

S-STEM Scholars Program

Program Overview

The S-STEM Scholars Program is designed to support students' academic success by connecting them with a cohort of motivated STEM students who provide encouragement, collaboration, and peer support throughout their college experience.

As part of the program, S-STEM Scholars are co-enrolled in one of their first-year science or mathematics courses, helping to foster academic collaboration, strengthen study networks, and build a sense of community within BHSU's STEM programs. Scholars also receive personalized support through one-on-one advising from a professional academic advisor and mentorship from a STEM faculty member.

In addition, students participate in a specialized section of General Studies 100 (GS 100), where they explore STEM career pathways, develop professional skills, and build valuable connections with faculty, peers, and industry professionals.

The S-STEM Scholars Program serves students with demonstrated financial need who have a passion for STEM and show strong potential for success in STEM-related careers.

This program is funded through the National Science Foundation's Scholarships in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (S-STEM) Program (Division of Undergraduate Education, Award #2221350 and #2619567).

 

Eligibility

Applicants must:

  • Be enrolled in an eligible STEM Bachelor of Science program at BHSU, including Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Environmental Physical Science, or Mathematics.
  • Have earned a minimum high school GPA of 2.60.
  • Demonstrate financial need as determined by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
  • Be a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, refugee, or lawful permanent resident as defined by federal guidelines.*
  • Be enrolling in college for the first time after graduating from high school.

Students who have completed dual-credit coursework while in high school are encouraged to apply.

Selected students may receive up to $15,000 annually in scholarship support. The scholarship is renewable for up to five years, provided recipients maintain satisfactory academic progress and continue to demonstrate financial need. Funding may be combined with other BHSU financial aid awards, provided the student's total aid does not exceed their demonstrated financial need.

Applicants should be pursuing a degree that could lead to STEM research opportunities or graduate study in a STEM discipline. Because of NSF funding requirements, the S-STEM Scholars Program is not intended for students pursuing careers in healthcare professions or teacher certification.

 

How To Apply

Complete the following steps:

Step 1: Apply and be accepted to Black Hills State University within an eligible STEM Program.

Step 2: Submit the 2027/2028 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) through the Federal Student Aid website. Be sure to include BHSU as one of your designated institutions.

Step 3: Set up your MyBHSU/SNAP account

Step 4: Complete the BHSU New Student Scholarship Application 2027-2028 (typically available in October).

Please be prepared to provide these additional requirements on your application:

  1. Reference Information
  2. Provide the name and email address of a teacher who knows you well and is willing to submit a letter of recommendation on your behalf. A science or mathematics teacher is preferred but not required.
  3. Please notify your teacher in advance that they will receive an email request for a recommendation.
  4. Short Essay (350 words maximum)
  5. What interests you about science and mathematics, and how do you believe the additional support provided through the S-STEM Scholars Program will help you succeed in your STEM studies and future career?

 

Review Process

Qualified applicants will be selected on a rolling basis. To be reviewed, a student must:

  • Have a processed 2027/2028 FAFSA on file with BHSU
  • Be accepted to BHSU in an eligible STEM program
  • Submit the BHSU New Student Scholarship Application for 2027-2028
  • Have a letter of recommendation submitted by your teacher

Because space in the program is limited, students are encouraged to apply as early as possible. For additional information, please contact S-STEM@BHSU.edu.

 

Benefits of the S-STEM Scholars Program

Participants receive:

  • Co-enrollment in a first-year science course with fellow S-STEM Scholars.
  • A STEM-focused section of General Studies 100 (GS 100) that introduces students to a variety of STEM career pathways.
  • Individualized advising from both STEM faculty mentors and a professional academic advisor.
  • Opportunities to participate in faculty-mentored research, independent studies, research courses, paid summer research experiences, and external internships.
  • Academic and peer support from the S-STEM Scholar community, with opportunities to serve as a tutor, mentor, or teaching assistant in later years.
  • An immediate sense of community through a residential living-learning experience, with the opportunity to live alongside fellow S-STEM Scholars during the first year.

 

Participant Responsibilities

Students selected for the S-STEM Scholars Program are expected to:

  • Remain enrolled in an eligible Bachelor of Science STEM degree program at BHSU
  • Maintain good academic standing.
  • Respond promptly to communications and requests from faculty mentors and S-STEM program staff.

*Be citizens of the United States, nationals of the United States (as defined in section 101(a) of the Immigration and Nationality Act), aliens admitted as refugees under section 207 of the Immigration and Nationality Act, or aliens lawfully admitted to the United States for permanent residence. Please note that Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) individuals are ineligible for support from this solicitation unless they meet the requirements listed in the first sentence of this bullet by the time of application.

When searching for scholarships not offered by Black Hills State University there are a number of avenues to explore. First, we recommend checking with your high school guidance counselor. Your counselor often has information from local businesses and organizations about scholarships they award to high school seniors.

Another popular method of looking for outside scholarships is through Internet sites and scholarship search companies. Beware of companies that guarantee scholarships for a fee. You’ve heard it before: if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Alternative Loans

The loans listed below are a historical list of private loans which BHSU students have borrowed over the last three years. As you can see, there are various private programs available to students who may not be eligible for federal aid or who may need additional funding. Loan limits, interest rates and repayment terms vary, you will want to review each one to see which one is best for you. A cosigner may allow a better interest rate. Also a self-certification form will be required, of which your lender will forward to you.

Private Lender Comparision Chart 

Contact our office for additional information.

 Frequently Asked Questions

To apply for federal aid, you will complete the FAFSA® form. For more information, check out the FAFSA information above. 

In addition to federal aid, BHSU has a separate process and application for scholarships. The scholarship application can be found above.

While you might not qualify for federal grants, Federal Unsubsidized Loans are usually an option regardless of income. Feel free to contact BHSU's Student Financial Aid Office if you have questions.

Check out the Types of Aid tab above for a full list of options.

And don't forget to apply for BHSU Scholarships here. There is a priority deadline, so apply early!

No. Acceptance to BHSU is based on academic standards, not financial need. Application for financial aid in no way impacts the admission decision.

Check out our Types of Aid tab above for more information on federal, state, alternative, and other funding.

FAFSA® forms submitted by March 1 will receive priority consideration for all types of aid. Applications submitted after the priority deadline will be put on a waiting list due to limited funding for certain financial aid programs.

Further steps will be required of some students after the FAFSA® form is submitted. Responding promptly to any requests for additional information is necessary to prevent delays in the aid process. We recommend that students regularly check their Yellow Jackets email for aid offer, updates, and required items. This is our main way of communicating important information regarding financial aid.

Students who meet the priority deadline and have submitted all requested documentation should receive an aid offer notification via email by late spring. Those students who apply later in the process should expect to receive an notice approximately six to eight weeks after submitting the FAFSA® form.

Your aid offer is year specific and includes any federal, state, and/or institutional aid that you qualify for at the time of packaging. 

To see your aid offer, visit the Financial Aid Self-Service Portal. Based on the academic year in your notification email, choose that drop down in the to right corner of the page and then go to the Aid Offer tab.

Scholarships may reduce your eligibility for student loans, work-study, and grants other than Pell as we must follow federal regulations regarding maximum packaging of aid. Students should not turn down scholarships though.

If you have concerns about a scholarship changing your aid offer, please contact the BHSU Student Financial Aid Office.

The Student Financial Aid Office works to create the best financial aid offer we can for you. This means we will offer you the maximum amount possible based on your financial need and the funds we have available, but sometimes that still leaves a balance. We understand that that difference can seem impossible, and we want to work with you to find the best options for you. Schedule a meeting with one of our staff to talk about those options! Our contact information is:

Financial Aid Forms


Academic Probation and Suspension Information

Students attending BHSU (and all other state universities in South Dakota) are required to meet minimum progression standards and maintain a cumulative (overall) grade point average requirement in order to remain in good standing. A student who meets or exceeds the cumulative grade point average requirements listed below is considered to be in good academic standing.

Good Academic Standing GPA

Credit Hour Range GPA Standard
0-44.99 1.8
45-90+ 2.0

Students who do not achieve good standing in any semester are placed on probation, can continue enrollment, and are given an opportunity to improve their performance. Students on probation are required to meet with a Retention Specialist to develop a personalized plan to help students achieve a satisfactory grade point average.

Students who do not achieve this minimum standard after two semesters are suspended and are not allowed to register for subsequent semesters. Students who are suspended can petition to be considered for readmission. Petitions are reviewed by the Provost, who decides whether the petitioner has presented sufficient evidence to warrant continued enrollment. 

Petitioners who successfully appeal their suspension, and students who are admitted conditionally to BHSU, are allowed to register according to certain conditions determined by the Provost. If a student meets or exceeds the GPA requirement during her/his probationary semester, s/he will be allowed to continue on probation until the cumulative GPA is raised to good academic standing.

Appeals Form