About

University Type

Public

University Type

US News National rank

317

US News National rank

Average Living Expenses

$26,524

Average Living Expenses

South Dakota State University (SDSU) is a public land-grant research university in Brookings, South Dakota. Founded in 1881, it is the state's largest and most comprehensive university and the oldest continually-operating university in South Dakota.

South Dakota State University offers over 200 undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields, including agriculture, business, education, engineering, and the arts. The university has several research centres and institutes, including the South Dakota Agricultural Experiment Station, the South Dakota Water Research Institute, and the Sanford Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation.

South Dakota State University is a member of the Big 12 Conference and competes in 16 varsity sports. The Jackrabbits have won 10 national championships, most recently in men's basketball in 2022.

What is the acceptance rate of South Dakota State University?

The South Dakota State University acceptance rate is 87.4% and the acceptance rate for South Dakota State University international students is 75%. Tuition fees for international students at South Dakota State University vary depending on the program and the number of credit hours taken. For the 2023-2024 academic year, the tuition and fees for international students are as follows:

  • Undergraduate: $10,903 per semester or $21,806 per year
  • Graduate: $11,213 per semester or $22,426 per year

In addition to tuition and fees, international students are also required to pay several other costs, including:

  • Health insurance: $2,520 per year
  • International student fee: $150 per semester
  • Program fee: Varies by program
  • General activity fee: $50.85 per credit hour

The total cost of attendance for international students at South Dakota State University can vary depending on the program, the number of credit hours taken, and the cost of living in Brookings, South Dakota. However, the estimated cost of attendance for the 2023-2024 academic year is as follows:

  • Undergraduate: $30,490 per year
  • Graduate: $31,676 per year

South Dakota State University (SDSU) is ranked #1172 in the 2023 US News Best Global Universities rankings. This ranking is based on several factors: research impact, internationalisation, and student outcomes.

South Dakota State University is also ranked #501-510 in the 2023 Times Higher Education World University Rankings. This ranking is based on several factors: teaching, research, knowledge transfer, and international outlook.

Top Reasons to Study in the South Dakota State University

  • Affordable tuition: South Dakota State University is a public university, so tuition is relatively affordable. 
  • High-quality education: South Dakota State University is well-respected, with a solid academic reputation. The university offers over 200 undergraduate and graduate programs and is home to several research centres and institutes.
  • Hands-on learning opportunities: South Dakota State University is committed to providing students with hands-on learning opportunities. The university has several state-of-the-art facilities, and it also offers a variety of internships and co-op programs.
  • Excellent student life: South Dakota State University has a vibrant student life. The university has over 250 student organisations, and it also offers a variety of recreational and cultural activities.
  • Beautiful campus: South Dakota State University's campus is in Brookings, South Dakota. Brookings is a charming town with a population of about 25,000 people. The campus is home to various trees and flowers and has several lakes and parks nearby.

Courses

Cost of Studying at South Dakota State University

Average tuition fee

Economical

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5000+ Students

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3000+ Cr

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Living expenses

Average living expenses (Bachelors)

$25,322

Average living expenses (Masters)

$26,524

Admissions at The South Dakota State University

Avg acceptance rate (Bachelors)

87%

Application Fee

$20 - $95


How to Apply at South Dakota State University

The application process for international students is the same as for domestic students. Additional requirements are there for fresh and transfer undergraduate and graduate students.

Fresh Undergraduate/Graduate International Admissions

  • Application: You can apply through the Common Application on their official website.
  • The application fee is $50 (non-refundable).
  • Required Materials: In addition to the application, applicants must submit the following:
    • Official transcripts from all schools/colleges/universities attended.
    • Entrance exam scores:  SAT/ACT (for undergraduates), GRE/GMAT (Required for graduate and PhD students)
    • English proficiency test scores like Internet-Based TOEFL (iBT) or IELTS
    • Personal statement/Essay writing
    • Two letters of teacher recommendation
    • International Financial Aid Statement of Intent

Transfer Students Undergraduate/Graduate International Admissions

  • Application: You can apply through the Common Application on their official website.
  • The application fee is $50 (non-refundable).
  • Required Materials: In addition to the application, applicants must submit the following:
    • Official transcripts from all schools/colleges/universities attended.
    • Entrance exam scores: SAT/ACT (for undergraduates), GRE/GMAT (Required for graduate and PhD students)
    • English proficiency test scores like Internet-Based TOEFL (iBT) or IELTS
    • Personal statement/essay writing
    • Transfer Report Form
    • Two letters of teacher recommendation
    • Financial documentation

Documents Required to Apply to South Dakota State University

Undergraduate Students

  • Complete the Common Application from their official website
  • Official transcripts from all previous your high school attended
  • SAT/ACT scores
  • Internet-Based TOEFL (iBT), or  IELTS English Test scores.
  • Personal statement/Essay writing
  • Two letters of recommendation
  • Financial documentation
  • Resume or curriculum vitae
  • Additional Documents:
    • Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student (F-1) Status
    • I-20 Form 
    • Passport
    • Visa

Graduate Students/PhD or Scholar Students

  • Complete the Common Application from their official website
  • Official transcripts from all previous from your high school or college attended
  • GRE/GMAT scores 
  • Internet-Based TOEFL (iBT), or  IELTS English Test scores.
  • Personal statement
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Resume or curriculum vitae (Relevant work experience)
  • Additional Documents:
    • Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student (F-1) Status
    • I-20 Form
    • Passport
    • Visa

All documents must be in English or have an official English translation


Exams Accepted By South Dakota State University

Undergraduate Students

  • Entrance Tests: SAT/ACT exam.
  • English Proficiency Tests: Internet-Based TOEFL (iBT) or IELTS English Test scores.

Graduate Students/Ph.D. Students

  • Entrance Tests: GRE/GMAT exam
  • English Proficiency Tests: Internet-Based TOEFL (iBT) or IELTS English Test scores.

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Rankings for The South Dakota State University

US News Ranking

#317

US News National rank


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Students South Dakota State University

38

Yocketers applied

18

Yocketers admitted

1,086

Yocketers interested


Premium Yocketer profiles

Samridhi Singh

Samridhi Singh

Shortlisted

Data Science

Spring 2023

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Shobhit Makhija

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Fall 2024

Junesh Gautam

Junesh Gautam

Mechanical Engineering

Fall 2023

Shreya Nipanikar

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Computer Science (Thesis)

Spring 2025


International Students

% of international students in the university

5.5

Total International Students in the university

621


Alumni at South Dakota State University

  • Theodore Schultz: Schultz was a Nobel Prize-winning economist known for his work on agricultural economics. He is considered one of the most influential economists of the 20th century.
  • Stephen Foster Briggs: Briggs was an inventor who invented the Briggs & Stratton engine. The Briggs & Stratton engine is one of the most widely used engines in the world.
  • Paul Ellering: Ellering is a professional wrestling manager best known for his work with the Road Warriors and Demolition. He is a member of the WWE Hall of Fame.
  • Kristi Noem: Noem is the 33rd and current governor of South Dakota. She is the first woman to be elected governor of South Dakota.
  • Zach Zenner: Zenner is a professional football running back currently a free agent. He has played for the Detroit Lions and the New Orleans Saints.
  • Jon Madsen: Madsen is a mixed martial artist competing in the UFC. He is a former King of the Cage heavyweight champion.

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Related Discussion for the Universities

Ask, post and discuss!

Have a question? Ask and discuss with your fellow aspirants!

Arya Tripathi
Arya Tripathi

4 months ago

PSYCHOLOGY MASTERS
There is a course in SDSU called Masters in Applied Psychology, but there are 2 courses at a difference of 2000$ in the fee structure. Can someone please explain what is difference between the two cou...
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Shaheed Basha
Shaheed Basha

5 months ago

Looking for 2 roomates to complete 5 members so that we can confirm a 2b2b apartment near sdsu.
Currently we r 3 members and require 2 more so that we can start looking for apartments and finalize the lease.Feel free to connect.
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Saloni Zawar
Saloni Zawar

6 months ago

SDSU or UMCP?
Hello, I am planning to pursue my masters this Fall. Could you please let me know which university would be better in terms of course, job prospects and ranking. #masters #ms #studyabroad
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Shaheed Basha
Shaheed Basha

8 months ago

Anyone from Hyderabad who have finalized SDSU for Fall 24?Let's Connect
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Reviews for South Dakota State University

Campus life

Number of campuses the university has
4

Campus locations
South Dakota

View on Google Earth


Transportation in the city

  • Bicycle: The city has a well-developed network of bike paths and trails, making it easy to get around by bike.
  • Walking: The city is also very walkable, with most of the campus and downtown area within a short walk of each other.
  • Public bus: The city operates a public bus system that serves most parts of the city.
  • Taxi: There are a few taxi companies that operate in the city.
  • Ride-sharing: Several ride-sharing services operate in the city, including Uber and Lyft.
  • Car: You can quickly get around the city if you have a car. However, parking can be difficult, especially during peak times.

Services offered by the university

  • Academic advising: South Dakota State University offers academic advising to all students. Advisors can help students choose classes, plan their degree paths, and succeed in their studies.
  • Career services: South Dakota State University offers career services to help students find jobs and internships. Services include resume writing, interview preparation, and job search assistance.
  • Financial aid: South Dakota State University offers financial aid to help students pay for their education. Financial aid can come from grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study.
  • Student health: South Dakota State University offers student health services to all students. Services include medical care, mental health care, and health education.
  • Diversity and inclusion: South Dakota State University is committed to diversity and inclusion. The university offers a variety of services to support students from all backgrounds. These services include cultural centres, support groups, and diversity training.
  • Student activities: South Dakota State University offers various student activities to get involved in. These activities include clubs, organisations, sports, and intramurals.
  • Recreation and Wellness: South Dakota State University offers students various recreation and wellness services. These services include a fitness centre, swimming pool, and outdoor recreation programs.

Student life at South Dakota State University

  • Join a club or organisation: South Dakota State University has over 300 student organisations, so there will surely be something for everyone. You can find clubs based on your interests, hobbies, or academic major.
  • Get involved in sports: South Dakota State University is a member of the Big 12 Conference so you can cheer on the Jackrabbits in various sports. You can also participate in intramural sports, a great way to stay active and have fun.
  • Attend cultural events: South Dakota State University hosts various cultural events throughout the year, such as concerts, plays, and art exhibits. These events are a great way to learn about different cultures and see outstanding performances.
  • Go to the movies: The South Dakota State University Cinema is a great place to see a movie. The cinema shows a variety of films, including independent films, foreign films, and classic films.
  • Explore the outdoors: South Dakota State University is located in Brookings, South Dakota, a beautiful city with much to offer. You can hike, bike, swim, or fish in the nearby lakes and parks.
  • Visit the campus: The South Dakota State University campus is beautiful to explore. There are a variety of buildings to see, including the Old Main Building, the Sanford Center, and the Performing Arts Center.
  • Go to the bars and restaurants: Brookings has a variety of bars and restaurants to choose from. You can find everything from a casual pizza place to a fine dining restaurant.

On campus accomodation at South Dakota State University

  • Residence halls: South Dakota State University offers a variety of residence halls to choose from. Residence halls are a great way to meet new people and make friends. They also offer a variety of amenities, such as laundry facilities, study areas, and dining halls.
  • Apartments: South Dakota State University also offers limited student apartments. Apartments offer more privacy and space than residence halls. They also offer access to the same amenities as residence halls.
  • Greek housing: South Dakota State University is home to several Greek organisations. Greek housing is a great way to be involved in a community and make lifelong friends.

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Faculty Information

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FAQ

1. What are the South Dakota State University GPA requirements?
The South Dakota State University GPA requirement is 2.60.

2. What are the South Dakota State University tuition fees?
The South Dakota State University tuition fee is USD 6,285( INR 5,01,615).

3. What are the most popular programs at the South Dakota State University?
The popular majors at the university include Registered Nurse, Mechanical Engineering, Animal Sciences, General, Human Development and Family Studies, General, Early Childhood Education, and Teaching General.

4. How can a student of the South Dakota State University contact the department he is applying to?
The contact information can be found in the Graduate Catalog which is mentioned under the student program.