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University of South Dakota and South Dakota School of Mines and Technology are both public institutions — University of South Dakota in Vermillion, SD and South Dakota School of Mines and Technology in Rapid City, 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.
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.
Rapid City, SD · Public
Acceptance rate: 79.9%
Undergrad enrollment: 2,071
Tuition: $14,900/year
Student-faculty ratio: 12.0:1
Graduation rate: 52.9%
Top programs: Engineering, Computer science, Physical sciences
Best for: Students who want a public campus in Rapid City, SD with published program strength in Engineering and Computer science.
| Factor | University of South Dakota | South Dakota School of Mines and Technology |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 98.8% | 79.9% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| 1125–1315 |
| 1140–1340 |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 19–25 | 24–30 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 5,439 | 2,071 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $12,942/year | $14,900/year |
| Average net price after aid | $19,858 | $20,183 |
| Graduation rate | 59.9% | 52.9% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $51,926 | $72,257 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 16.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Institution type | Public | Public |
| Location | Vermillion, SD | Rapid City, SD |
| Largest program areas | Health professions, Business and marketing, Education | Engineering, Computer science, Physical sciences |
South Dakota School of Mines and Technology is more selective (79.9% vs 98.8% acceptance rate). University of South Dakota has a lower average net price after grant aid ($19,858 vs $20,183). University of South Dakota reports the higher graduation rate (59.9% vs 52.9%). 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 University of South Dakota and South Dakota School of Mines and Technology
University of South Dakota has an acceptance rate of 98.8%; South Dakota School of Mines and Technology is around 79.9%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
University of South Dakota tuition is $12,942/year. South Dakota School of Mines and Technology is $14,900/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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