#54 in Nursing
University of South Dakota
Vermillion, SD
Acceptance
99%
Total Cost
$17,281
SAT
1125–1315
South Dakota's flagship public university on Missouri River bluffs, home to the state's sole law and medical schools.
Explore South Dakota Colleges
Colleges in South Dakota
Explore 18 colleges and universities in South Dakota, including 9 public institutions and 9 private schools. Compare tuition costs, acceptance rates, and find your perfect fit.
18
Colleges
9
Public
9
Private
South Dakota at a Glance
Avg Acceptance Rate
88%
Average acceptance rate for South Dakota colleges
Avg Net Price
$16,712
After financial aid
Avg In-State Tuition
$12,729
For public universities
South Dakota Colleges Directory
Browse 18 colleges in South Dakota, sorted by ranking and selectivity.
#66 in Nursing
South Dakota State University
Brookings, SD
Acceptance
98%
Total Cost
$17,828
SAT
1060–1240
Land-grant workhorse in Brookings turning out practical agronomists, engineers, and nurses from South Dakota's farm country.
#69 in Best Value
South Dakota School of Mines and Technology
Rapid City, SD
Acceptance
80%
Total Cost
$16,500
SAT
1140–1340
South Dakota School of Mines and Technology is located in Rapid City, SD.
Northern State University
Aberdeen, SD
Acceptance
93%
Total Cost
$18,190
SAT
980–1160
Northern State University is located in Aberdeen, SD.
Dakota State University
Madison, SD
Acceptance
88%
Total Cost
$16,682
SAT
1190–1440
Dakota State University is located in Madison, SD.
Augustana University
Sioux Falls, SD
Acceptance
68%
Total Cost
$46,052
SAT
1150–1370
Augustana University is located in Sioux Falls, SD.
Black Hills State University
Spearfish, SD
Acceptance
96%
Total Cost
$15,172
SAT
965–1135
Black Hills State University is located in Spearfish, SD.
University of Sioux Falls
Sioux Falls, SD
Acceptance
83%
Total Cost
$28,640
SAT
950–1160
University of Sioux Falls is located in Sioux Falls, SD.
Mount Marty University
Yankton, SD
Acceptance
43%
Total Cost
$38,700
SAT
941–1151
Mount Marty University is located in Yankton, SD.
Dakota Wesleyan University
Mitchell, SD
Acceptance
73%
Total Cost
$39,250
SAT
920–1110
Dakota Wesleyan University is located in Mitchell, SD.
FAQs about South Dakota Colleges
University of South Dakota is the highest-ranked university in South Dakota, ranked #290 nationally. The state is home to several prestigious institutions offering world-class education across various fields.
The average tuition at South Dakota colleges varies by institution type. For public universities, the average in-state tuition is $12,729 per year. Out-of-state students pay an average of $13,881. After financial aid, the average net price is $16,712.
The average acceptance rate for colleges in South Dakota is 88%. However, acceptance rates vary significantly by institution, with some highly selective universities accepting less than 10% of applicants while others maintain open enrollment policies.
To qualify for in-state tuition at South Dakota public universities, you typically need to establish residency for at least 12 months before enrolling. Requirements usually include living in the state, having a South Dakota driver's license, registering to vote in the state, and demonstrating intent to remain. Specific requirements vary by institution, so check with your chosen school's admissions office.
South Dakota is located in the Midwest region of the United States. Known for strong public university systems and Big Ten athletics, the Midwest offers affordable education with tight-knit campus communities.
South Dakota offers a range of affordable college options. The average net price after financial aid is $16,712. Public universities in South Dakota provide particularly strong value for in-state residents, with lower tuition rates and access to state financial aid programs.