About
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.
Admissions
Avg acceptance rate (Bachelors)
86%
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.
Campus Life
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.
Faculty
University Faculty:Student Ratio
University Faculty Stats
- Total faculty: As of Fall 2021, South Dakota State University has 1,246 full-time faculty members.
- Faculty diversity: South Dakota State University's faculty is diverse, with 46% of faculty members identifying as women and 20% identifying as people of colour.
- Faculty salaries: The average salary for a full-time faculty member at South Dakota State University is $89,900.
- Faculty research: South Dakota State University's faculty members are actively engaged in research. In 2021, South Dakota State University faculty members published over 1,000 research papers in peer-reviewed journals.
- Faculty teaching: South Dakota State University's faculty members are dedicated to teaching. In 2021, South Dakota State University faculty members received an average teaching score of 4.5 out of 5 from students.
Career Opportunities
Internship opportunities at South Dakota State University
- Departmental internships: South Dakota State University offers a variety of departmental internships, which allow students to gain experience in their chosen field. These internships are typically unpaid but can provide valuable experience and networking opportunities.
- Co-op programs: South Dakota State University also offers several co-op programs, allowing students to alternate between semesters of study and paid employment. Co-op programs are a great way to gain experience in your chosen field and earn money to help pay for your education.
- On-campus jobs: South Dakota State University offers a variety of on-campus jobs, such as working in the library, the cafeteria, or the bookstore. These jobs are a great way to earn money and get to know the campus.
- Off-campus jobs: Several off-campus jobs are available near South Dakota State University. These jobs can be found online on job boards, in the newspaper, or by word-of-mouth.
Placement of South Dakota State University
Job placement
According to South Dakota State University's Career Services website, 98% of South Dakota State University graduates are employed or enrolled in graduate school within six months of graduation.
Hiring companies
- Bank of America
- Dakota Bank and Trust
- Great Plains Software
- John Deere
- Mitsubishi
- Pfizer
- Procter & Gamble
- Tyson Foods
- Wells Fargo
Salaries
The average starting salary for South Dakota State University graduates is $50,604.
Popular Courses · 29
M-Arch in Architecture
15,697
tuition / yr
MA in Communication and Media Studies
9,810
tuition / yr
MA in English
9,810
tuition / yr
Masters in Agricultural & Biosystems Engineering
Masters in Animal Science
Masters in Curriculum and Instruction
Masters in Education Administration
Masters in Food Science
Last updated August 14, 2026