Overview
Dakota Wesleyan University is a less selective private four-year institution in Mitchell, South Dakota. The school accepts 74.8% of applicants and enrolls 661 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 74.8%
- Average SAT
- 1,185
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 950–1,420
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 21
- Total Enrollment
- 661
Your Chances by SAT Score
Your score is above the 75th percentile. You are a competitive applicant.
Your score falls within the middle 50% of admitted students.
Your score is below the 25th percentile. Other parts of your application will need to stand out.
Admission Guide
Dakota Wesleyan University operates on a rolling admissions basis, so you can apply throughout the year rather than waiting for specific deadlines. Submit your completed application along with your high school transcript and ACT or SAT scores. The university requires a personal essay and at least one letter of recommendation from a teacher or counselor.
The nursing program maintains higher admission standards than the university overall and fills quickly due to clinical placement limitations. Apply early if you plan to pursue nursing, as spots become competitive despite the school's generally accessible admission process. Education and criminal justice programs also attract strong applicant pools but remain more accessible than nursing.
Campus housing is guaranteed for first-year students, and you should submit your housing application soon after your admission acceptance to secure your preferred residence hall. The university assigns roommates based on your housing questionnaire responses, though you can request a specific roommate if you both apply together.
New student orientation takes place the week before classes begin and covers course registration, campus resources, and academic expectations. You'll meet with an academic advisor during orientation to finalize your fall semester schedule. The campus operates on a semester system with classes starting in late August.
Mitchell sits in rural South Dakota with limited off-campus entertainment options, so campus involvement becomes important for social connection. The university's small size means you'll likely know most of your classmates by graduation, and professors will know you personally. This creates strong mentoring relationships but also means academic struggles become quickly visible to faculty.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $19,300/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $32,890
- Students Receiving Aid
- 26%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 46.4%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $53,728/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 69.4%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Dakota Wesleyan University require SAT or ACT scores?
Dakota Wesleyan University accepts both SAT and ACT scores for admission. Check with admissions for current test-optional policies as requirements may change.
What is the application deadline for Dakota Wesleyan University?
Dakota Wesleyan University operates on rolling admissions, meaning applications are reviewed as they are received. Apply early for the best chance at housing and financial aid.
How many credits can I transfer to Dakota Wesleyan University?
Transfer students can apply previously earned college credits toward their degree at Dakota Wesleyan University. Contact the registrar's office to determine which credits will transfer and count toward graduation requirements.
What GPA do I need to get into Dakota Wesleyan University?
Dakota Wesleyan University does not publish a minimum GPA requirement. The admissions office reviews applications individually, considering grades alongside other factors like test scores and activities.