South Dakota State University
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South Dakota State University: Rankings, Cost, Programs, Placements

  • B Shiksha Grade
  • Institute Icon322 acre campus
  • Estd. 1881
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Dark Clock Icon Last updated on 18 Sep '24, by Kartik Bisht (Study Abroad Expert)

SDSU
What’s new?

  • The Fall 2025 (august) application deadline for undergraduate students is Jun 15, 2025.

About South Dakota State University

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Year of establishment
1881
Also known as
SDSU
University website
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Student website
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Total foreign students
910
Campus size
322 acres
No. of campus
1
Endowment value
USD 113 million
Scholarships granted
8692
Scholarship amount granted
USD 40 million
English proficiency test
Required
Accepted exams
SAT/ACT accepted
Optional
Total faculty
655
Faculty/Student ratio
18
Male/Female ratio
1.12
UG/PG course ratio
0.66
Total criminal offences
288
Quick university statsInsights on student demographics, enrolment, and academic success
UG Race

Others

93%

Hispanic

2%

American

1%

Black

1%

Asian

1%

UG Student residence

In state

50%

Out of state

47%

Foreign

2%

UG Applicant Icon

UG Number of Applicant

6364
grad RateIcon

Overall Graduation Rate

0.59
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Commonly asked questions
On Highlights

Q:   Is South Dakota State University public or private?

A: 

South Dakota State University is one of the best public research universities in the United States. The University has a rich alumni network all over the world. Additionally, SDSU offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, Ph.D., and doctorate programs including various specializations for its students. According to the Shiksha Grading, South Dakota State University has an overall rank of B+ grade. Moreover, a few of the popular programs at the university are Health professions, Engineering, Business, Management, Business, and more.

Q:   What are the top majors at South Dakota State University?

A: 

SBSU is highly regarded for offering the top academic programs for its international and domestic programs. South Dakota State University offers a variety of majors, specializations, minors, master's degree courses, Ph.D., and professional doctorate programs. Some of the top majors at SDSU are as follows:

  • Civil Engineering
  • Economics
  • Education
  • Biology
  • Biochemistry
  • Architecture
  • Biotechnology
  • Public Health
  • Management

Q:   Is South Dakota State University a good university?

A: 

South Dakota State University is one of the state’s the largest universities in Brookings, South Dakota, USA. According to the Fall 2024, the University boats around 12,065 students coming from 47 states and 77 countries. Moreover, South Dakota State University is ranked B+ grade by Shiksha Grading. SDSU offers a range of programs at undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctorate levels for its international and domestic students. The University offers a welcoming environment for international students, top academic programs, well-qualified and experienced faculty members, and more.

Q:   What is South Dakota State University known for?

A: 

South Dakota State University is known for offering top-notch infrastructure, a welcoming environment, qualified and experienced faculties, the latest technologies for students, and more. Also, SDSU offers various majors, specializations, minors, master's degree courses, Ph.D. programs, and professional doctorate courses for its students. The University offers a range of scholarships for its students which attracts international students the most. Along with this, South Dakota State University has one of the highest placement rates in the United States. The University graduates are working in top companies worldwide. South Dakota State University placement rate is 89%.

Q:   What is South Dakota State University famous for?

A: 

South Dakota State University (SDSU) is well-known for a number of noteworthy characteristics:

1. Research Excellence: In the Midwest, SDSU is regarded as one of the best research universities, especially in the areas of engineering, biology, and agricultural science.
2. Academic Rankings: The university is regularly ranked among the "Top 200 National Universities" by U.S. News & World Report for colleges and universities. It also appears in the QS World University Rankings, where it is rated #251–300.
3. Diverse Academic Portfolio: With nearly 200 academic programs spread throughout six colleges, including agriculture, arts and sciences, education, engineering, nursing, and pharmacy, SDSU provides a wide range of academic options.
4. Value and Affordability: The university is known for providing the finest value in higher education for overseas students, providing an excellent American education at a reasonable price.

South Dakota State University Scholarships

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Commonly asked questions
On Scholarships

Q:   Does the South Dakota State University offer scholarships for international students?

A: 

Yes, South Dakota State University offers various scholarships for its international students. Moreover, SDSU scholarships may have eligibility criteria that international students must fulfill. Hence, students must refer to the scholarship-specific page of the university. South Dakota State University scholarships.

  • Rotary International Ambassadorial Scholarship Program
  • Aga Khan Foundation
  • WU Scholarships
  • Margaret McNamara Memorial Fund
  • Rotary International Ambassadorial Scholarship Program
  • American Association of University Women
  • Nursing Scholarships for international students

Q:   What scores do I need to have to get a scholarship at South Dakota State University?

A: 

In order to be eligible for a scholarship at South Dakota State University (SDSU), you must fulfil the following criteria:

1. Academic Excellence: 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (85%) is the minimal GPA required of applicants.
2. Standardized Test Scores: A minimum TOEFL iBT score of 61, an IELTS score of 5.5, or a PTE score of 50+ are required of  applicants.A minimum ACT score of 30+ or SAT score of 1100 is also required of applicants.
3. Financial Need: Based on their FAFSA application, candidates for certain scholarships, like the Jackrabbit Guarantee Scholarship,         must show that they have the necessary funds.
4. Letters of reference: A letter of reference is required for several scholarships, including the WU Scholars program.
5. Academic Transcript: An academic transcript is required for some scholarships, including the WU Scholars program.
Extracurricular Interests: A few scholarships, including

South Dakota State University Admissions 2025

  • Application fees :USD 20 - 93
  • Type of deadline :Depends on course
Document IconDocuments
Type of documentsApplicable for
SOPNeeded for few courses
LORNeeded for few courses
EssaysNot required
CVNeeded for few courses
Additional documentsRequired
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Sign-up to view details
Calendar IconImportant dates
Intake seasonDeadline
Fall15ᵗʰ Feb - 15ᵗʰ Apr 2025
Spring15ᵗʰ Oct 2023 - 1ˢᵗ Nov 2024
Summer14ᵗʰ Jun 2024
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Commonly asked questions
On Admissions

Q:   What is the application deadline for international students at South Dakota State University?

A: 

SDSU offers admission for international students in two intakes such as Fall and Spring intakes. South Dakota State University offers various undergraduate and postgraduate programs for its international students. In order to secure admission at SDSU international students must meet the admission and English language requirements at the university. International students can apply at the university through the Official University Portal. Moreover, the South Dakota State University application deadline for undergraduate and postgraduate programs is as follows:

Intakes

UG

PG

Spring 2025 (January)

Nov 1, 2024

Oct 15, 2024

Fall 2025 (August)

Jun 15, 2025

Apr 15, 2025

Q:   How much is the application fee for international students at South Dakota State University?

A: 

South Dakota State University is one of the best universities in the United States. The university provides a huge range of UG and PG programs for its international and domestic students. International students who are applying to SDSU can apply via the University Official Portal. Students must apply before the admission deadline to secure admission at the university. Moreover, the South Dakota State University application fee is USD 20 (INR 1,674) for international applicants. Along with this, SDSU has a non-refundable application fee for international students.

Q:   How can I get into South Dakota State University?

A: 

The steps to apply for undergraduate students at South Dakota State University are given as follows:

  • Complete the online application 
  • Submit the proof of English Language Proficiency 
  • The student must submit the academic transcripts, certificates and diplomas 
  • The student must complete and submit the financial certification form 
  • Students must submit a copy of their passport biographical page.

South Dakota State University Fees

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Courses1st Year Tuition FeesDuration & Eligibility
MS(14 courses)
INR 9 L - 17 L
Duration1 year-24 months
Exam AcceptedIELTS: 5.5 - 6.5, TOEFL: 71 - 90, Duolingo: 100 - 115
B.E. / B.Tech(8 courses)
INR 9 L - 11 L
Duration2-4 years
Exam AcceptedIELTS: 5.5 & Above, TOEFL: 61 & Above, PTE: 44 & Above
B.Sc.(8 courses)
INR 10 L - 11 L
Duration4 years
Exam AcceptedIELTS: 5.5 & Above, TOEFL: 61 & Above, PTE: 44 & Above
BBA(4 courses)
INR 10 L
Duration4 years
Exam AcceptedIELTS: 5.5 & Above, TOEFL: 61 & Above, PTE: 44 & Above
M.Arch(1 course)
INR 13 L
Duration2 years
Exam AcceptedIELTS: 6 & Above, TOEFL: 71 & Above, Duolingo: 100 & Above
MIM(3 courses)
INR 9 L - 11 L
Duration18-24 months
Exam AcceptedIELTS: 6 - 6.5, TOEFL: 79 - 90, Duolingo: 110 & Above
BHM(1 course)
INR 10 L
Duration4 years
Exam AcceptedIELTS: 5.5 & Above, TOEFL: 61 & Above, PTE: 44 & Above
MBA/PGDM(2 courses)
INR 9 L - 11 L
Duration18-24 months
Exam AcceptedIELTS: 6 - 6.5, TOEFL: 90 & Above, Duolingo
BSN(1 course)
INR 10 L
Duration4 years
Exam AcceptedIELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 79 & Above, Duolingo: 110 & Above
B.Arch(1 course)
INR 10 L
Duration4 years
Exam AcceptedIELTS: 5.5 & Above, TOEFL: 61 & Above, PTE: 44 & Above
Read more
View Course Wise Fees ->
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Commonly asked questions
On Fees and Eligibility

Q:   How much does it cost for international students to study at South Dakota State University?

A: 

SDSU is one of the most esteemed universities in the United States. South Dakota State University offers various undergraduate and postgraduate programs for its international and domestic students. SDSU tuition fees can vary for undergraduate to postgraduate programs. Moreover, the SDSU tuition fee can vary for undergraduate and postgraduate programs is as follows:

Course levelAnnual Tuition Fee in INR
UG
INR 9.15 L - 10.74 L
PG
INR 9.32 L - 16.46 L

Q:   How much money is required in Indian rupees to study at South Dakota State University?

A: 

The estimated cost of attendance at South Dakota State University for international students is around $12,308 per year, which is approximately INR 9 Lacs to 16 lakhs. The tuition fees for international students at South Dakota State University vary depending on the programme and the number of credit hours taken. For undergraduate students, the tuition fees range from $259.10 to $654.05 per credit hour, while for graduate students, it ranges from $340.15 to $1,000 per credit hour. Additionally, the estimated cost of housing and meals for international students is around $10,000 to $14,000 per year. However, the cost of attendance may vary based on individual circumstances, such as the type of accommodation, meal plan, and personal expenses. 

Q:   How expensive is it to live at South Dakota State University?

A: 

The kind of housing, the meal plan, and personal expenses are some of the variables that affect the cost of living at South Dakota State University (SDSU). With accommodation and board included, the projected yearly cost for overseas undergraduate students is USD 12,308. Depending on the kind of housing and meal package, the anticipated cost of attendance for undergraduate students living on campus ranges from USD 18,861 to USD 20,456, while for those living off campus, it ranges from USD 19,719 to USD 21,314. Furthermore, according to College Factual, room and board at SDSU average USD 10,000 annually. As a result, SDSU's cost of living is comparatively low when compared to other American institutions.

South Dakota State University Job Outcomes

Top Recruiters

3M
CITI Bank
IBM
General Electric
Intel
Microsoft
Motorola
Visit official career services website External Link Icon
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Commonly asked questions
On Placements

Q:   What are the popular sectors that Indian students prefer for doing part-time jobs at South Dakota State University?

A: 

The university offers various part-time job opportunities for students, including on-campus jobs, off-campus jobs, and internships. Students looking for part-time work can get support and tools from SDSU's Career Development Center. Additionally, the university's website lists various job openings for students, including positions in the library, dining services, and athletics. Therefore, Indian students, like other students at SDSU, can explore various part-time job opportunities based on their interests and skills.

Q:   What is the salary offered to South Dakota State University graduates?

A: 

South Dakota State University has one of the highest placement rates in the United States. The university graduates are highly skilled and are working for leading companies worldwide. The average salary of South Dakota State University graduates is USD 74,000 (INR 61.64 LPA) per year. Furthermore, the average graduate salary of SDSU graduates is as follows according to the unofficial sources:

Job Title

Average Salary

Mechanical Engineer

USD 65,000

Design Engineer

USD 61,510

Software Engineer

USD 92,642

Electrical Engineer

USD 70,877

Executive Director

USD 70,750

Project Manager

USD 70,986

Senior Software Engineer

USD 99,790

The above table is curated from payscale.

Q:   Who are the top recruiters at South Dakota State University?

A: 

SDSU has one of the highest placement rates in the United States. South Dakota State University graduates are always in high demand worldwide. Moreover, South Dakota State University placement rate is 89%. Additionally, SDSU graduates are working for leading sectors such as Engineering, Information Technology, Finance, Human Resources, Marketing, and more. Some of the top employers at the South Dakota State University are mentioned below:

  • Stanford Health
  • Daktronics
  • Avera Health
  • State of South Dakota
  • Monument Health
  • Mayo Clinic
  • POET
  • HDR
  • CNH
  • Northwestern Mutual
  • Burns & McDonnell
  • Intel Corporation







South Dakota State University Rankings 2025

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Commonly asked questions
On Rankings

Q:   What is the ranking of South Dakota State University in the world?

A: 

According to the US News and World Report Rankings 2023, South Dakota State University has a ranking of #1172. Some of the other rankings at the university are given as follows:

Year South Dakota State University
20191037
20201037
20211083
20221145
20231172

Q:   Why Shiksha Grading for the South Dakota State University is better than other ranking bodies?

A: 

The University ranking highly influences student's decision to enroll in the university. Shiksha Study Abroad has launched Shiksha Grading. There are various ranking authorities available in the market, but Shiksha Grading stands out of the herd. Shiksha Grading has categorized its ranking into 9 grades such as A+, A, B+, B, C+, and C. South Dakota State University has an overall ranking of B grade as per the Shiksha Grading. Additionally, SDSU courses are mostly ranked in the range of C grade. Moreover, Shiksha Grading grades universities and colleges as per their particular country. Along with this, University courses are graded based on their availability at the colleges or universities in a specific country. Shiksha Grading provides rankings for universities, colleges, and programs all under one system, freeing students from the hassle of comparing rankings from different authorities.

Q:   Is South Dakota State University better than North Dakota University?

A: 

According to the US News and World Report Rankings 2023, South Dakota State University has a ranking of #1172 and North Dakota State University has a rank of #1275. Some of the other rankings at the university are given as follows:

Year South Dakota State UniversityNorth Dakota State University
20191037981
20201037981
202110831101
202211451198
202311721275

Q:   What are the Engineering course rankings at South Dakota State University?

A: 

Some of the Engineering course rankings at South Dakota State University are given as follows:

Year US News and World Report- Civil Engineering PGUS News & World Report - Electrical Engineering PG
2021137168
2022146170
2023142NA

SDSU
College comparison

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Compare SDSU with other similar colleges

MS
B.E. / B.Tech
B.Sc.
BBA
M.Arch
MIM
BHM
MBA/PGDM
BSN
B.Arch
College1st Year Tuition FeesShiksha GradeRanking

SDSU

INR 9.37 L - 16.53 LB#296 US News, 2024

University of South Dakota

Double Arrow Icon Compare
INR 9.56 L - 17.93 LB#269 US News, 2024
INR 11.27 L - 19.01 LB#249 US News, 2024
INR 9.02 L - 31 LC#236 US News, 2024

Louisiana Tech

Double Arrow Icon Compare
INR 8.33 L - 8.59 LC+#299 US News, 2024

Arkansas State University

Double Arrow Icon Compare
INR 9.8 L - 14.94 LC++#299 US News, 2024
The values are of the latest years available with Shiksha. For more details, check detailed comparison
View comparisonsRight Arrow Icon

SDSU
Studying in USA

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South Dakota State University Notable Alumni

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Commonly asked questions
On Alumni

Q:   How many alumni does the South Dakota State University have?

A: 

South Dakota State University has a rich alumni network of more than 100,000 members worldwide. Additionally, University alumni are working all over the world and making the university proud of them. SDSU alumni network includes various famous personalities such as Stephen Censky, Richard F. Kneip, Ben Reifel, and more. The University graduates are working for top companies such as Stanford Health, Daktronics, Avera Health, Mayo Clinic, HDR, and more. SBDU’s alumni are highly skilled in:

South Dakota State University Graduates are Skilled in

 

Q:   Who is the most famous South Dakota State University alumni?

A: 

South Dakota State University has a vast alumni network. SDSU has produced more than 100,000 alumni, who are working all over the world and making the university proud of them. The University graduates are placed in leading sectors such as Operations, Business Development, Engineering, Information Technology, and more. The SDSU alumni network includes various famous personalities, gam- changers, mentors, dreamers, innovators, etc. Some of the most famous people who are part of the SDSU alumni network are given below:

  • Stephen Censky
  • Richard F. Kneip
  • Ben Reifel
  • Kristi Noem
  • Adam Vinatieri
  • Tom Daschle
  • Dallas Goedert
  • Mike Rounds
  • Nate Wolters
  • Theodore Schultz
  • Gene Amdahl
  • Leo K. Thorsness
  • Dale Moss

A graphical representation of top companies where SDSU’s alumni work are as follows:

South Dakota State University Graduates Work In

 

South Dakota State University Vs Arkansas State University Vs San Diego State University

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Commonly asked questions
On Others

Q:   Which university is better: South Dakota State University or Arkansas State University?

A: 

South Dakota State University and Arkansas State University are the most reputable universities for pursuing higher education in the USA. Every university has its pros and cons. Additionally, each student's needs and requirements can differ from one to another. Some crucial factors that students must consider include rankings, average salary, placement rate, and more. According to the Shiksha Grading, South Dakota State University has an overall ranking of B grade and Arkansas State University has an overall ranking of C+ grade. SDSU stands taller as compared to Arkansas State University under the ranking category. The average salary of SDSU graduates is INR 61.94 LPA. Whereas, the average salary of Arkansas State University graduates is INR 56.08 LPA. Hence, in terms of average graduate salary South Dakota State University has the upper hand as compared to Arkansas State University. Furthermore, students also check parameters such as acceptance rate, programs, placement rate, and more.

South Dakota State University Campus Life

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Commonly asked questions
On Additional Details 1

Q:   Will my life on campus be better at South Dakota State University than staying off-campus?

A: 

On-Campus Living:

  • Convenient location for classes.
  • Every floor has community assistants to assist with the adjustment to SDSU, and every hallway has full-time staff members.
  • Possibility of being involved in student life.
  • Creating eternal memories and enduring friendships.
  • Safer community and campus.

Off-Campus Living:

  • Greater autonomy and seclusion.
  • Reduced living expenses in comparison to on-campus housing.
  • Freedom to select your own neighborhood and living.
  • Arrangements Possibility of a more varied living environment.

Considering above advantages and disadvantages a student can choose.

SDSU 
FAQs

Q:   Is South Dakota State University hard to get into?

A: 

According to the US News and World Report, South Dakota State University has an acceptance rate of 86% making it somewhat selective for admissions for international students. Some of the general admission requirements for students at SDSU are given as follows:

qna

SDSU

Student Forum

chatAnything you would want to ask experts?
Write here...

Answered 3 weeks ago

Applying To South Dakota State University with international student status requires having the following admissions requirements :
Academic Qualifications Completing secondary school with the minimum GPA of 2.6 points/4.0 scale of achievement
 or Standardized examination tests through ACT/SAT
Qualifyi

...more

J

Jagadesh Sai

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 3 months ago

International students whose first language is not English must submit the proof of English language test at the SDSU. South Dakota State University accepts various English language tests such as TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, PTE, and more. The English language test must be taken within two years of apply

...more

K

Kartik Bisht

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 3 months ago

South Dakota State University is among the top universities in the United States. SDSU offers a variety of programs at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. South Dakota State University tuition fees can vary for domestic and international students. Additionally, SDSU tuition fees can differ from o

...more

K

Kartik Bisht

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 3 months ago

South Dakota State University acceptance rate is 86%, which makes it not so competitive to secure admission. These figures show that for every 100 students, only 86 students will get admitted to the SDSU. The university accepts international students in two intakes namely Fall and Spring intake. Int

...more

K

Kartik Bisht

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 3 months ago

South Dakota State University is one of the most prominent universities for higher education in the United States. SDSU is highly ranked by top-ranking authorities in the world. According to the Shiksha Grading, South Dakota State University has an overall ranking of B grade. The SDSU is ranked #296

...more

K

Kartik Bisht

Contributor-Level 10

About the author

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Kartik Bisht

Study Abroad Expert

A tech enthusiast, Kartik has graduated with a Bachelor of Computer Application from the IMS Ghaziabad 2023 batch. Kartik loves to learn about Cybersecurity and Cybercrime. Also, his hobbies are such as traveling, trekking, cooking, and more. Moreove...Read Full Bio
SDSU Others(1)Campus
SDSU Others(2)Front View
SDSU Others(3)Building
SDSU Others(1)
SDSU Others(2)

SDSU
Location

Accordion Icon V3
University CityBrookings, South Dakota, USA

SDSU
Campuses

Departments Icon1   Campuses
South Dakota State University CampusUp Arrow Icon
Address

1451 Stadium Rd, Brookings, SD 57007, USA

Visit official site External Link Icon

SDSU
Contact Information

Address

Brookings, SD 57007, USA
Brookings ( South Dakota)

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