North Dakota resident students pursing professional degrees in optometry, dentistry or veterinary medicine have the opportunity to attend out-of-state programs and receive funding through North Dakota’s Professional Student Exchange Program (PSEP). Completed applications must be received at the North Dakota University System (NDUS) prior to Oct. 15, 2025, to receive priority consideration for the Fall 2026 semester. “We are committed to ensuring North Dakota students have access to financial resources they need to pursue their educational goals,” said Brenda Zastoupil, NDUS director of financial aid. “State aid programs, including the Professional Student Exchange Program, are designed to support students with affordability and flexibility as they work towards their future careers.” Professional programs available through North Dakota’s PSEP are supported by the following institutions:

• Select Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education (WICHE) Institutions –Optometry, Dentistry, Veterinary Medicine
• University of Minnesota– Dentistry, Veterinary Medicine
• Kansas State University– Veterinary Medicine
• Iowa State University– Veterinary Medicine

To apply, students first need to submit an application through the ND State Aid Management System Portal at ndus.edu/nd-sams-portal. Applications received after the Oct. 15, 2025, deadline will be given alternate consideration, meaning they will only be considered for funding following certified applicants. Applicants with questions about North Dakota’s PSEP should call Brenda at 701-328-2906 or email brenda.zastoupil@ndus.edu.