University of South Dakota
Vermillion, South Dakota · Public
University of South Dakota admitted 99% of 6,380 applicants (Common Data Set 2025-2026). First-year students who sent the SAT scored 1120–1290 in the middle half. Test scores are optional. 61% of students graduate within six years.
Your chances at University of South Dakota
Enter a score to see whether University of South Dakota is a reach, target or likely school for you.
Based on the admit rate (99%) 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.
Application deadlines
University of South Dakota’s first-year deadlines for 2026–27 on the Common App:
- Regular decision
- Rolling admission
The application fee is $25, and University of South Dakota accepts the Common App fee waiver.
Deadlines end at 11:59 p.m. in your own time zone. From Common App’s requirements grid, updated September 25, 2026. Check University of South Dakota’s admissions site before you submit. See every college’s deadlines or early decision vs. early action.
Early decision and early action
University of South Dakota doesn’t report an early decision or early action round.
What admissions weighs
How University of South Dakota rates each part of an application, from its Common Data Set.
Very important
- Course rigor
- Class rank
- GPA
- Test scores
Important
- –
Considered
- Essay
- Recommendations
Not considered
- 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. 18% of those who reported a class rank were in the top 10% of their class.
Some colleges report weighted GPAs, so compare loosely.
What it costs
Full price with housing is $24,639 in-state and $28,149 out-of-state a year. After grants, students paid $18,466 on average (in-state).
Average price after grants, by family income, for in-state students:
Quick answers
What is University of South Dakota’s acceptance rate?
University of South Dakota admitted 99% of applicants: 6,306 of 6,380 (Common Data Set 2025-2026).
When is University of South Dakota’s application deadline?
University of South Dakota uses rolling admission for 2026–27 and has no early round on the Common App, so applying early in the fall gives you the best shot at open spots and aid.
What SAT score do you need for University of South Dakota?
The middle half of admitted students who sent the SAT scored 1120 to 1290, with a median around 1205. A score at or above 1205 puts you in the top half of admitted students who sent one.
How much is University of South Dakota’s application fee?
The application fee is $25 for 2026–27, and University of South Dakota accepts the Common App fee waiver.
Does University of South Dakota have supplemental essays?
No. University of South Dakota doesn’t ask for a supplemental essay or the Common App personal essay for 2026–27.
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