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
Total Colleges
9
Public
9
Private
South Dakota at a Glance
Avg Acceptance Rate
5362%
Average acceptance rate for South Dakota colleges
Avg Net Price
$16,712
After financial aid
Avg In-State Tuition
$12,728.722
For public universities
South Dakota Colleges Directory
Browse 18 colleges in South Dakota, sorted by ranking and selectivity.
Vermillion, SD•Public
99%
Acceptance Rate$17,281/yr
1125-1315
59%
"South Dakota's flagship public university on Missouri River bluffs, home to the state's sole law and medical schools."
Brookings, SD•Public
98%
Acceptance Rate$17,828/yr
1060-1240
60%
"Land-grant workhorse in Brookings turning out practical agronomists, engineers, and nurses from South Dakota's farm country."
Rapid City, SD•Public
80%
Acceptance Rate$16,500/yr
1140-1340
54%
"South Dakota School of Mines and Technology is located in Rapid City, SD."
![Photo of Ole, Augustana College's [Sioux Falls, South Dakota, USA] mascot with the administration building, East hall, and Old Main visible in the background.](https://vghvhanhsrscfnnyakkv.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/college-photos/wikimedia/f9bc3d55e2333a98dcc3b581293d561b3d4359aad6edaf4e91bfbe929e652067.jpg)
Sioux Falls, SD•Private
68%
Acceptance Rate$46,052/yr
1150-1370
74%
"Augustana University is located in Sioux Falls, SD."
Aberdeen, SD•Private
93%
Acceptance Rate$33,227/yr
900-1080
N/A
"Presentation College is located in Aberdeen, SD."
Frequently Asked Questions 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 54%. 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.