About

About South Dakota State University

public research universityhealth sciences focusengineering programshigh acceptance ratesouth dakota flagship

South Dakota State University is a public research university in Brookings, SD, known for its public research university, health sciences focus, and engineering programs. With an acceptance rate of 86%, SDSU is accessible for most qualified applicants, typically enrolling around 2,191 students each year. SDSU is test optional; students who submit scores are typically admitted with SATs between 1020–1245, though many competitive applicants choose not to submit. SDSU offers merit scholarships regardless of financial need, with awards averaging $4,322 per year; the sticker price of $26,126 may look very different from what your family actually pays.

Admissions

South Dakota State University acceptance rate and admitted student profile

accessible for most qualified applicants

86%
Overall Accept Rate
1133
Median Admitted SAT
SATSubmitted score range: 1020 – 1245 (test optional)

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Application Strategy

Strategy tips for applying to South Dakota State University

The first 2 tips apply to all applicants. Your personalized strategy requires your profile — build your free list to unlock it.

Application Strategy
SDSU has strong programs in agriculture, pharmacy, engineering, and nursing that draw competitive applicants, so if you are applying to one of these majors, make sure your coursework and activities reflect genuine preparation and interest in that field.
Test Score Strategy
Since SDSU is test optional and your scores are below the 75th percentile for admitted students, you are better off not submitting them and letting your GPA and activities carry your application.

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Financial Aid & Cost

What South Dakota State University actually costs your family

Average net prices by income bracket from College Scorecard data.

Family IncomeSticker PriceEst. Net Cost / yr
0-30k~$26k/yr$14.3k
30k-48k~$26k/yr$15.2k
48k-75k~$26k/yr$18.1k
75k-110k~$26k/yr$20.7k
110k+~$26k/yr$21.9k

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Outcomes & Campus

Student outcomes and campus profile

60%
6-Year Graduation Rate
$50k
Median Earnings (6 yrs)
17:1
Student-Faculty Ratio
8,403
Undergrad Enrollment
South Dakota State University Acceptance Rate & Admissions | SpearMatch