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Augustana University and Dakota State University are both private nonprofit institutions — Augustana University in Sioux Falls, SD and Dakota State University in Madison, SD. This page compares published admission, cost, and outcome data from federal sources so you can see the tradeoffs before you add either school to your list.
Sioux Falls, SD · Private
Acceptance rate: 67.8%
Undergrad enrollment: 1,965
Tuition: $40,160/year
Student-faculty ratio: 12.0:1
Graduation rate: 73.0%
Top programs: Health professions, Biological sciences, Business and marketing
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Sioux Falls, SD with published program strength in Health professions and Biological sciences.
Madison, SD · Public
Acceptance rate: 88.0%
Undergrad enrollment: 2,071
Tuition: $12,756/year
Student-faculty ratio: 18.0:1
Graduation rate: 51.3%
Top programs: Computer science, Education, Business and marketing
Best for: Students who want a public campus in Madison, SD with published program strength in Computer science and Education.
| Factor | Augustana University | Dakota State University |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 67.8% | 88.0% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| 1150–1370 |
| 1190–1440 |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 21–27 | 20–27 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 1,965 | 2,071 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $40,160/year | $12,756/year |
| Average net price after aid | $23,894 | $21,057 |
| Graduation rate | 73.0% | 51.3% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $59,217 | $50,970 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 12.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Institution type | Private nonprofit | Public |
| Location | Sioux Falls, SD | Madison, SD |
| Largest program areas | Health professions, Biological sciences, Business and marketing | Computer science, Education, Business and marketing |
Augustana University is more selective (67.8% vs 88.0% acceptance rate). Dakota State University has a lower average net price after grant aid ($21,057 vs $23,894). Augustana University reports the higher graduation rate (73.0% vs 51.3%). Dakota State University is the larger undergraduate campus (2,071 students). Use the free side-by-side comparison tool to weigh cost, program fit, location, and outcomes for your own list — and verify deadlines and requirements with each college.
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Common questions when choosing between Augustana University and Dakota State University
Augustana University has an acceptance rate of 67.8%; Dakota State University is around 88.0%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
Augustana University tuition is $40,160/year. Dakota State University is $12,756/year. Compare net price after aid, not sticker price — especially for private schools and out-of-state publics.
Use College Decider's free comparison tool at /compare — add both schools to see tuition, acceptance rates, graduation outcomes, and more in one table.
Add both schools to our free side-by-side comparison tool — tuition, outcomes, and more.
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