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University of Sioux Falls and Northern State University are both private nonprofit institutions — University of Sioux Falls in Sioux Falls, SD and Northern State University in Aberdeen, 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: 82.9%
Undergrad enrollment: 1,218
Tuition: $21,750/year
Student-faculty ratio: 18.0:1
Graduation rate: 62.9%
Top programs: Business and marketing, Health professions, Psychology
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Sioux Falls, SD with published program strength in Business and marketing and Health professions.
Aberdeen, SD · Public
Acceptance rate: 93.0%
Undergrad enrollment: 1,273
Tuition: $11,947/year
Student-faculty ratio: 19.0:1
Graduation rate: 48.9%
Top programs: Education, Business and marketing, Biological sciences
Best for: Students who want a public campus in Aberdeen, SD with published program strength in Education and Business and marketing.
| Factor | University of Sioux Falls | Northern State University |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 82.9% | 93.0% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| Not reported |
| 980–1160 |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | Not reported | 18–24 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 1,218 | 1,273 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $21,750/year | $11,947/year |
| Average net price after aid | $21,383 | $15,812 |
| Graduation rate | 62.9% | 48.9% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $54,521 | $47,618 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 18.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Institution type | Private nonprofit | Public |
| Location | Sioux Falls, SD | Aberdeen, SD |
| Largest program areas | Business and marketing, Health professions, Psychology | Education, Business and marketing, Biological sciences |
University of Sioux Falls is more selective (82.9% vs 93.0% acceptance rate). Northern State University has a lower average net price after grant aid ($15,812 vs $21,383). University of Sioux Falls reports the higher graduation rate (62.9% vs 48.9%). Northern State University is the larger undergraduate campus (1,273 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 University of Sioux Falls and Northern State University
University of Sioux Falls has an acceptance rate of 82.9%; Northern State University is around 93.0%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
University of Sioux Falls tuition is $21,750/year. Northern State University is $11,947/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.
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