Overview
South Dakota State University is a accessible public four-year institution in Brookings, South Dakota. The school accepts 86.1% of applicants and enrolls 8,798 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 86.1%
- Average SAT
- 1,133
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,020–1,245
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 22
- Total Enrollment
- 8,798
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
South Dakota State University uses a rolling admissions process, so apply early for the best housing options and financial aid consideration. Submit your application, official transcripts, and test scores through the online portal. The priority deadline for fall admission is February 1, though applications are accepted until classes begin.
Engineering programs at SDSU require stronger academic credentials than the university's general admission standards. Nursing is particularly competitive and has a separate application process with prerequisite coursework requirements. If you're interested in these programs, contact the specific college directly for detailed requirements and application timelines.
Housing fills up quickly, especially the newer residence halls. Submit your housing application and deposit immediately after being accepted. First-year students must live on campus unless they live within commuting distance with family. The university offers themed living communities for students with similar academic interests or career goals.
SDSU requires all incoming freshmen to attend a summer orientation session called LAUNCH. You'll register for classes, meet with advisors, and complete placement testing if needed. These sessions run from June through August, and spots fill up fast for preferred dates.
The campus sits in a small college town where student life revolves around university activities. Brookings has limited off-campus entertainment options, so get involved with campus organizations early. The agricultural and engineering programs have strong alumni networks throughout the Midwest, particularly beneficial if you plan to work in the region after graduation.
South Dakota residents should apply for state grant programs in addition to federal aid. Out-of-state students can qualify for reduced tuition rates through academic scholarships or neighboring state agreements. Submit your FAFSA by the March 10 priority deadline to maximize aid opportunities.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $18,219/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $9,299
- Tuition (out-of-state)
- $12,809
- Students Receiving Aid
- 16%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 59.6%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $55,070/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 82.9%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the application deadlines for South Dakota State University?
South Dakota State University has rolling admissions with no specific deadline, but applying early is recommended for housing and financial aid consideration.
Does South Dakota State University require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
South Dakota State University requires either SAT or ACT scores for admission. The university does not have a test-optional policy.
What GPA do you need to get into South Dakota State University?
South Dakota State University requires a minimum 2.6 GPA in core academic courses for admission. Students must also meet class rank or test score requirements if their GPA falls below 3.0.
How many credits can transfer students bring to South Dakota State University?
Transfer students can bring up to 64 credits from community colleges and unlimited credits from four-year institutions to South Dakota State University. A minimum 2.0 GPA is required for transfer admission.