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Dakota State University and University of South Dakota are both public institutions — Dakota State University in Madison, SD and University of South Dakota in Vermillion, 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.
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.
Vermillion, SD · Public
Acceptance rate: 98.8%
Undergrad enrollment: 5,439
Tuition: $12,942/year
Student-faculty ratio: 16.0:1
Graduation rate: 59.9%
Top programs: Health professions, Business and marketing, Education
Best for: Students who want a public campus in Vermillion, SD with published program strength in Health professions and Business and marketing.
| Factor | Dakota State University | University of South Dakota |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 88.0% | 98.8% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| 1190–1440 |
| 1125–1315 |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 20–27 | 19–25 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 2,071 | 5,439 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $12,756/year | $12,942/year |
| Average net price after aid | $21,057 | $19,858 |
| Graduation rate | 51.3% | 59.9% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $50,970 | $51,926 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 18.0:1 | 16.0:1 |
| Institution type | Public | Public |
| Location | Madison, SD | Vermillion, SD |
| Largest program areas | Computer science, Education, Business and marketing | Health professions, Business and marketing, Education |
Dakota State University is more selective (88.0% vs 98.8% acceptance rate). University of South Dakota has a lower average net price after grant aid ($19,858 vs $21,057). University of South Dakota reports the higher graduation rate (59.9% vs 51.3%). University of South Dakota is the larger undergraduate campus (5,439 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 Dakota State University and University of South Dakota
Dakota State University has an acceptance rate of 88.0%; University of South Dakota is around 98.8%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
Dakota State University tuition is $12,756/year. University of South Dakota is $12,942/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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