Skip to content

Dakota State University

Madison, South Dakota · Public

92%acceptance rate
1020–1340SAT middle 50%
20–26ACT middle 50%
$19,115average net price, in-state

Dakota State University admitted 92% of 2,016 applicants (Common Data Set 2025-2026). First-year students who sent the SAT scored 1020–1340 in the middle half. Test scores are optional. 48% of students graduate within six years.

Your chances at Dakota State University

Enter a score to see whether Dakota State University is a reach, target or likely school for you.

or
Likely

Based on the admit rate (92%) alone. Add a score for a sharper read.

A rough read from the admit rate and test scores only. Grades, courses, essays and activities matter as much or more. To see your whole list at once, use the chances calculator.

Early decision and early action

Dakota State University doesn’t report an early decision or early action round.

What admissions weighs

How Dakota State University rates each part of an application, from its Common Data Set.

Very important

  • –

Important

  • Class rank
  • GPA
  • Test scores

Considered

  • –

Not considered

  • Course rigor
  • Essay
  • Recommendations
  • Interview
  • Activities
  • Talent or ability
  • Character
  • First generation
  • Legacy
  • Where you live
  • State residency
  • Religion
  • Volunteering
  • Work experience
  • Showing interest

High school GPA

First-year students averaged a 3.47 GPA. 11% of those who reported a class rank were in the top 10% of their class.

  • 4.08%
  • 3.75–3.9928%
  • 3.50–3.7423%
  • 3.25–3.4913%
  • 3.00–3.2410%
  • 2.50–2.9912%
  • 2.00–2.495%
  • Under 2.01%

Some colleges report weighted GPAs, so compare loosely.

What it costs

Full price with housing is $26,109 in-state and $29,211 out-of-state a year. After grants, students paid $19,115 on average (in-state).

Average price after grants, by family income, for in-state students:

  • $0–30k$15,948
  • $30–48k$16,778
  • $48–75k$20,432
  • $75–110k$21,975
  • $110k+$21,121

Quick answers

What is Dakota State University’s acceptance rate?

Dakota State University admitted 92% of applicants: 1,863 of 2,016 (Common Data Set 2025-2026).

What SAT score do you need for Dakota State University?

The middle half of admitted students who sent the SAT scored 1020 to 1340, with a median around 1190. A score at or above 1190 puts you in the top half of admitted students who sent one.

Not sure which colleges fit?

A Clarity Prep mentor builds a balanced list with your student and checks in every week until it’s done.

Get startedBook a free call

Writing your essay? Get a free college essay review.

Students also look at