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95.7%Acceptance
$10,857Tuition
9,567Students
64%Grad Rate (6-yr)
$62,203Earnings
#8 in North DakotaPublic4-yearSAT/ACT Test OptionalResearch UniversityNCAA Division IStudy AbroadData: 2023-24

Overview

North Dakota State University-Main Campus is an open admission public four-year institution in Fargo, North Dakota. The school accepts most applicants who complete the application process.

Admission Guide

You can apply to North Dakota State through the Common Application or directly through their online portal, with a rolling admissions process that continues through the summer. The university requires your high school transcript, but test scores are optional for most programs.

Engineering programs at NDSU are significantly more competitive than general admission. Architecture also has higher standards and requires a portfolio review. Nursing admits students to pre-nursing first, then you must apply separately to the nursing program after completing prerequisites with specific grade requirements.

Housing applications open in October for the following fall, and you should submit yours early since some residence halls fill quickly. First-year students must live on campus unless they live with family locally. The university assigns orientation dates based on when you submit your enrollment deposit.

NDSU operates on a semester system starting in late August. You'll register for classes during orientation, but popular sections fill up fast. The campus experiences harsh North Dakota winters, so prepare for snow and subzero temperatures that can last from November through March.

The university offers strong agricultural and engineering programs that connect directly to regional industries. Many students participate in undergraduate research, particularly in agriculture and engineering fields. Career services maintains close relationships with regional employers, especially in agriculture, manufacturing, and technology sectors.

What It Costs If You Get In

Average Net Price
$16,334/yr
Tuition (in-state)
$10,857
Tuition (out-of-state)
$15,511
Students Receiving Aid
19%

View full cost breakdown →

After You Graduate

Graduation Rate (6-year)
63.7%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$62,203/yr
Freshman Retention Rate
76.9%

View full outcomes data →

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the admission requirements for North Dakota State University-Main Campus?

NDSU requires a high school diploma or equivalent with a minimum 2.75 GPA. The university accepts SAT or ACT scores but does not require them for admission.

Does North Dakota State University-Main Campus have early admission options?

NDSU operates on rolling admissions, meaning applications are reviewed as they are received. There is no early decision or early action program.

What is the application deadline for North Dakota State University-Main Campus?

NDSU has a priority deadline of August 15 for fall semester admission. Applications received after this date are considered on a space-available basis.

How many transfer credits does North Dakota State University-Main Campus accept?

NDSU accepts up to 96 transfer credits from four-year institutions and up to 68 credits from two-year colleges. Transfer students need a minimum 2.0 GPA from their previous institution.