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University of South Dakota: Admissions 2024, Rankings & Fees

Map Pin IconVermillion, USA
  • C+ Shiksha Grade
  • Verified IconAuthorized Partner
  • Institute Icon2 Campuses
  • Estd. 1862
Dark Clock Icon Last updated on 28 Sep '23

About University of South Dakota

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Year of establishment1862
WebsiteGo to Website External Link Icon
Accepted Exams
TOEFLPTE+2 More
Size of Campus in acres274
UG/PG Course Ratio2.4
Faculty/Student Ratio0.067
Endowments ValueUS Dollar 328 million
No.of Campuses2
Accommodation expenses8398 USD for 3 sharing (UG),8398 USD for 3 sharing (PG)
Meal expenses4402 USD (UG),4402 USD (PG)
International Students WebsiteGo to Website External Link Icon
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Commonly asked questions

On Highlights

Q:   Does University of South Dakota require the GRE?

A: 

University of South Dakota might accept GRE score for admission to some of the PG courses. Applicants must check the course requirement for the programme they wish to apply in the university. Conducted by ETS, the GRE test or the GRE General test is one of the world’s the largest assessment programmes for graduate admissions to business or law schools. USD accepts unofficial copies of English proficiency test scores, admission test scores and unofficial and unofficial partial transcripts for contingent admission. 

Q:   Is the University of South Dakota a good University?

A: 

Yes, the University of South Dakota (USD) offers a diverse and extensive landscape of academics for its students, making it a good choice for all. The University of South Dakota ranks between 1001 and 1200 by THE and still manages to do well. Additionally, the university is home to seven schools with 200+ undergraduate programs and 72 postgraduate courses for its national and international students on the global platform. Overall, the University is a good choice for international students as it has a holistic learning environment.

Q:   How is the campus of University of South Dakota?

A: 

The University of South Dakota is situated on an impressive 274-acre campus nestled near the Missouri River. Old Main, one of the symbols of the schools, is considered as the prominent academic facility on the university's campus. Apart from being home to several classrooms, the campus of the institution also houses an Oscar Howe Museum, the University Honors Program. The university also has a wellness center which includes workout equipment and basketball, racquetball, and volleyball courts along with a 3-lane walking track. The Dakota Dome is not only the venue for the university's football, swimming, softball, basketball, etc., but also serves as a student's recreational center.

University of South Dakota
Entry Criteria

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CoursesExams
MS(10 Courses)
IELTS: 6.0 & Above
TOEFL: 79.0 & Above
PTE: 53.0 & Above
MIM(3 Courses)
IELTS: 6.0 & Above
TOEFL: 79.0 & Above
PTE: 53.0 & Above
B.Sc.(30 Courses)
IELTS: 5.5-6.0
TOEFL: 71.0 & Above
PTE: 48.0 & Above
MBA/PGDM(1 Courses)
IELTS: 6.0 & Above
TOEFL: 79.0 & Above
PTE: 53.0 & Above
BBA(14 Courses)
IELTS: 5.5-6.0
TOEFL: 71.0 & Above
PTE: 48.0 & Above
M.A.(19 Courses)
IELTS: 6.0 & Above
TOEFL: 79.0 & Above
PTE: 53.0 & Above
B.A.(17 Courses)
IELTS: 6.0 & Above
TOEFL: 71.0 & Above
PTE: 48.0 & Above
PG Certificate(11 Courses)
IELTS: 6.0 & Above
TOEFL: 79.0 & Above
PTE: 53.0 & Above
B.E. / B.Tech(4 Courses)
IELTS: 6.0 & Above
TOEFL: 71.0 & Above
PTE: 48.0 & Above
MFA(7 Courses)
IELTS: 6.0 & Above
TOEFL: 79.0 & Above
PTE: 53.0 & Above

University of South Dakota Tuition Fees, Duration & Eligibility 2024

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CoursesDuration1st Year Tuition Fees
MS(10 courses)
2 months-2 years
INR 8.8 L - 16.3 L
MIM(3 courses)
18-24 months
INR 10.1 L - 12.1 L
B.Sc.(30 courses)
2-6 years
INR 10.4 L - 11.8 L
MBA/PGDM(1 course)
18-24 months
INR 11.1 L
BBA(14 courses)
4-5 years
INR 10.4 L - 10.9 L
M.A.(19 courses)
1 year-2 years
INR 9.2 L - 21.2 L
B.A.(17 courses)
2-5 years
INR 10.7 L
PG Certificate(11 courses)
1 year-2 years
INR 6 L - 7.1 L
B.E. / B.Tech(4 courses)
4-5 years
INR 10.7 L - 12.2 L
MFA(7 courses)
2-3 years
INR 10.8 L - 17.7 L
View Course Wise Fees ->
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Commonly asked questions

On Fees and Eligibility

Q:   What are the requirements to get into the University of South Dakota?

A: 

Below are the requirements of the University of South Dakota:

  •  All academic transcripts submitted need to be in English or translated into English along with the non-English original draft.

  • An SOP is essential for the application process. It helps the applicant to convey their talents, Academic excellence accomplishments and personal background of applicants.

  • Applicants must score above 2.64 on the scale of 4.0 in their high school or submit SAT (1070) or ACT (21)

  • Or must have 50 above in their high school

  • Portfolio ( Audition depending on your chosen course):  This depends on the course the applicant is choosing, as this is not present in every program. However, having a creative and unique portfolio will help you get into the USD. (Click here to Make your portfolio look better)

  • English requirements: The following table explains the minimum score for each English exam the university is accepting: 

English Proficiency Test

Minimum required score

IELTS

6.00 and above

DUOLINGO

110 and above

TOEFL iBT

79 and above

TOEFL essential

8.5 and above

PTE

53 and above

Graduate requirements

  • All academic transcripts submitted need to be in English or translated into English along with the non-English original draft.

  • An SOP is essential for the application process. It helps the applicant to convey their talents, Academic excellence accomplishments and personal background of applicants.

  • Portfolio ( Audition depending on your chosen course):  This depends on the course the applicant is choosing, as this is not present in every program. However, having a creative and unique portfolio will help you get into the USD. (Click here to Make your portfolio look better)

  • Resume: Applicants must submit their resume to the university with their experience. 

  • Applicants must also have the passport ready by the time their apply to the university as it’s a crucial requirement from the USD.

  • English requirements: The following table explains the minimum score for each English exam the university is accepting: 

English Proficiency Test

Minimum required score

IELTS

6.00 and above

DUOLINGO

110 and above

TOEFL iBT

79 and above

TOEFL essential

8.5 and above

PTE

53 and above






Q:   How much is the MS fee at University of South Dakota?

A: 

The first year tuition fee for University of South Dakota MS course ranges between INR 8.8 Lacs and INR 11.1 Lacs as per an unofficial source. Students who get into the university need to pay the course fee as per the guidelines of University of South Dakota. Apart from the tuition fee, aspirants also need to pay a non-refundable application fee at the start of the admission process. The application fee for PG courses is $35 USD.

Q:   What is the eligibility for University of South Dakota?

A: 

After selecting the course of choice, applicants must check on the eligibility and fee for the respective course. Below is general eligibility for UG and PG courses:

Undergraduate: International students who have officially completed secondary school (high school) in either the United States or their home country

Postgraduate: Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree in a relevant stream to apply for master’s degree course.

University of South Dakota Scholarships 2024

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Commonly asked questions

On Scholarships

Q:   Does the University of South Dakota provide scholarships for international students?

A: 

Yes, all international students are provided with scholarships, and all students who apply for the University of South Dakota are automatically considered up to  USD 3,500 per year. However, the university has a scholarship committee that will review your academic marks, GPA and english test. This scholarship doesn't have any deadline, but it is suggested to apply before April 1, 2024

Q:   Is Freshman Scholarship available at University of South Dakota?

A: 

University of South Dakota offers various scholarships based on the merit of the applicants. USD awards nearly $10.7 million each year in student scholarships. All prospective students may apply for scholarships using the online academic scholarship application. The academic scholarship application is generally available in the fall of each year with a priority deadline of November 15, and the final deadline for submitting the application is December 1. Below are details for some of the USD Freshman Scholarships offered to International students:

Coyote Beginnings

All first-time freshman students who apply for fall admission to USD are automatically considered for up to $3,500 per year. Coyote Beginnings is available to recipients for up to four years as a full-time student and is based on GPA, standardized test scores and committee review.

Presidential Alumni Scholarship

Open to high school seniors with a 27 or higher ACT (1280 SAT), the scholarship is valued at in-state tuition and fees over a four-year period (15 credit hours per semester up to 120 hours over four years). Students enrolled in select disciplines are subject to additional fees. Finalists for Presidential Alumni Scholarships are invited to interview.

View all 176 scholarshipsRight Arrow Icon

University of South Dakota Admission Dates 2024

  • Application fees :USD 20 - 35
  • Type of deadline :Regular
Document IconDocuments
Type of documentsApplicable for
SOPNeeded for few courses
LORNeeded for few courses
EssaysNot required
CVNeeded for few courses
Additional documentsRequired
Calendar IconImportant dates
Intake seasonDeadline
Fall1ˢᵗ Dec 2023 - 1ˢᵗ Jun 2024
Spring15ᵗʰ Oct - 25ᵗʰ Dec 2023
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Commonly asked questions

On Admissions

Q:   What is the deadline for UG spring admission at University of South Dakota?

A: 

Check below the UG admission deadline for Spring 2024:

UG Deadline

Event

UG Spring 2024 Deadline

Application

15 Oct, 2023

I-20 Issuance

1 Nov, 2023

Enrollment & Housing Deposit

15 Nov, 2023

SEVIS Transfer

15 Dec, 2023

Arrival

4 Jan, 2024

Q:   What are the application deadlines for international students at the University of South Dakota?

A: 

Below are the application deadlines for international students at University of South Dakota:

Intake

Application deadline 

Spring 2024

Oct 1, 2023

Fall 2024

May 1, 2024

Q:   What GPA do you need to get into University of South Dakota?

A: 

As per the claim by an unofficial source, the average GPA for International students at University of South Dakota is 3.35. Candidates with GPA less than 3.35 will find it harder to get into the university as compared to the ones having GPA more than 3.35. Further, the acceptance rate at University of South Dakota is 87%. Applicants with a sound academic background can easily get admission in USD. 

Admission details of all coursesRight Arrow Icon

University of South Dakota
Students Ratings & Reviews

3.1/5
Verified Icon5 Verified ReviewsInfo Icon
Vibe of Campus
  • Easy going
  • Friendly
  • Sporty
  • Liberal
Student Views
  • 40% students never faced discrimination in this university
Internships2.8
Part time work2.8
Post study jobs3.2
Quality of faculty3.4
Student Life4.2
Value for money4.2
Public transportation1.8
Safety4
Indian Food1.8
Permanent Immigration2.6
G
Gagan Phani Chandra Polukonda Verified Icon
Computer Science (M.S) - Batch of 2024
1.6
PlacementsInfrastructureFacultyCrowd & Campus LifeValue for Money
Good for masters not for knowledge.
Tips: I did not experience any cultural shift here yet. Many things here are almost the same as back in India but also we are unaware of a lot of things and need to explore the culture here. There is no way to know the things happening around you unless it is a university event, so look out for those. I did not get any scholarship and it is very difficult to get a scholarship. And also the assistantships. On a scale of 5 I will give it 3.
Likes (Value for money): The college's fee is not well justified because the professors aren't good enough for the fee we pay and it is not a good university if you want to increase your knowledge through Masters. This is what I can say from my experience till now.
Dislikes (Public transportation): Well the campus is almost in the centre of the town but there is not much public transportation to go. There are only two buses that go through our college, one in the morning and one in the evening that too they go to different destinations. It is affordable and convenient.
Reviewed on 28 Jun 2023Read more
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S
Saikrishnayadav modiboyena Verified Icon
Computer Science (M.S) - Batch of 2024
2.9
PlacementsInfrastructureFacultyCrowd & Campus LifeValue for Money
College is budget friendly, academics manageable. No need to fear about racism and gun culture.
Tips: Basic knowledge of your course is enough to maintain 3+ GPA. Students can manage academics without pressure. The vermilion city was a kind of remote area and there are no Indian restaurants, or Indian grocery stores up to 40 miles. There is no oppurtunity for part times in the city other than on-campus.
Reviewed on 16 Mar 2023Read more
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K
Kalainidhi Tirounavoucarassou Verified Icon
Computer Science (M.S) - Batch of 2023
3.5
PlacementsInfrastructureFacultyCrowd & Campus LifeValue for Money
Cheap university and cheap cost of living
Tips: Students can’t do off campus jobs and it's hard to get part time. Hard to find Indian restaurants. Transportation is crap in this city. Car is a must for students, especially at this university. No more Indian groceries nearby. Prefer staying off campus for saving money.
Reviewed on 14 Mar 2023Read more
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N
Nikul Vyas Verified Icon
BS/MS in Computer Science - Batch of 2018
2.7
PlacementsInfrastructureFacultyCrowd & Campus LifeValue for Money
Campus is welcoming and full of activities.
Tips: The college is located at a small town named Vermillion, SD near Missouri river and on the border of Nebraska & Iowa. However, there's no public transport so having a car becomes mandatory. USD's mascot is a coyote and when you attend the games you do get the feel.
Likes (Student Life): The campus is really welcoming, and small-town presence makes the students feel included in the community. The campus provides lots of activities for international students to get involved. Each day, the campus will have some or the other activities going on, apart from computer science department where there is a Nepali professor partially favoring students from Nepal to provide assistantships & scholarships for free. All other departments are much better. If you are a CS major, I'd not recommend this college.
Dislikes (Permanent Immigration): The federal laws are not merit based and the PR options are skim. The international office does try their best to assist students with all the process however, the laws in US are structured in such a way that getting a PR becomes next to impossible for legal immigrants.
Reviewed on 6 Nov 2022Read more
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A
AnonymousVerified Icon
Computer Science (M.S) - Batch of 2023
4.7
PlacementsInfrastructureFacultyCrowd & Campus LifeValue for Money
Affordable tuition fees and good faculty.
Tips: The college fee is affordable. Students can take advanced courses from the field of Artificial intelligence and Machine learning. Professors are industry experienced and they teach tough concepts in an easy way. So, it is easy to understand them and they teach us from the basics.
Likes (Part time work): The University has various on-campus jobs from GA/RA/TA to IT service desk/Library/Gamer services, etc. There is a job portal where we can apply for multiple jobs and get selected. During winter/summer breaks also we can find part time jobs on the campus.
Dislikes (Public transportation): As it is a college town, so it is a walkable city. We can just manage with a bicycle or by walking. Public transport is available at an affordable cost based on the need - Vermillion public transit. During winter, it's better to have car as it snows here.
Reviewed on 28 Sep 2022Read more
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University of South Dakota Placements

Top Recruiters

CITI Bank
Hewlett Packard
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Commonly asked questions

On Placements

Q:   Does University of South Dakota offer placement support?

A: 

The students of USD have many opportunities for employment on- and off-campus. The Academic and Career Planning Center of the university offers help in preparing for a career or searching for hourly employment.

Through USD career services, students can explore majors and careers, get assistance with job search documents, get support for their job/internship search and prepare for interviews. Internship support is also provided to students. Internships may be paid or unpaid, and can be taken for academic credit.

University of South Dakota Accommodation & Meals

On-Campus Accommodation
AVAILABLE
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Masters
Bachelors
Alternative Star IconAccommodation Expense
Alternative Star IconMeal Expense
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Commonly asked questions

On Accommodation & Meals

Q:   What are the accommodation options at University of South Dakota?

A: 

Below are the living options in USD:

The residence halls within North Complex (Beede, Mickelson, Richardson and Olson Halls) offer first-year and upper-class students a great opportunity to get involved in academic and social groups, living learning communities and activities.

Coyote Village is a four-story, 175-unit complex located just south of the DakotaDome. All suites and apartments include a living room that offers a great place for roommates to come together, while students also have their own private bedroom and share a bathroom with one other resident.

McFadden Hall offers privacy and affords you the convenience of living on campus. McFadden houses 100 students in four-person apartments and allows students to be as social or as private as you want to be.

Burgess and Norton halls are conveniently located near Dakota, Noteboom and East Halls, as well as the Delzell Education Center and the Arts & Sciences Building.

Q:   Do Students get meal options at University of South Dakota?

A: 

The university provides various meal options to students to choose from. Students who do not select a meal plan by three weeks before the start of each semester are defaulted to Yote Pack 70. Meals do not transfer from semester to semester. The students get variety of food options like international entrees, grill, Delhi and salad bar to vegetarian options. 

University of South Dakota Rankings 2024

C+
Overall University Grade
by Shiksha
General Medicine
C
#801+
#801-1000
Biomedical Engineering
C
#139
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Commonly asked questions

On Rankings

Q:   What is the ranking of University of South Dakota?

A: 

Check below University of South Dakota rankings:

  • University of South Dakota is ranked at 220 position among the top universities in USA. 
  • UND School of Education was ranked at 149 on US News and World Reports 2023-2024 “Best Graduate Education Schools” list, ranking the highest in South Dakota and North Dakota.

Q:   What are the Business course rankings at University of South Dakota?

A: 

Some of the Business course rankings at University of South Dakota are given as follows:

Year QS Global MBA RankingsUS News - UG Business rankings 
2019201-250199
2020201-250224
2021201-250201
2022251+212
2023251+219

Q:   Which is better; University of South Dakota or Wright State University?

A: 

The comparative US News and World Report rankings of University of South Dakota and Wright State University are given as follows:

Year University of South DakotaWright State University 
2019NA1168
2020NA1168
202113291304
202215241423
202315611542

To check more rankings, click here

Study in USA

Average Accommodation Expense

INR 6.7 L (based on 146 colleges)

Average Meals Expense

INR 3.9 L (based on 116 colleges)

Part Time Work
Permitted

International students are allowed to work part-time for 20 hours per week during an academic term.

e... Read more about part time work

Post Study Work Permit
Permitted

Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a one-year work and stay-back permit given to international students o... Read more about post study work permit

Cost of Visa Application
USD 185 = INR 15,343.9
Visa Application Process
Simple

You will need an F1 visa if your course of study is a full-time degree.

e... Read more about visa application process

Hot Job Sectors

IT, Tech, Energy, Healthcare, E-commerce and Business services are some of the popular job sectors in the U... Read more about hot job sectors

Economy Growth Rate

According to the BEA (Bureau of Economic Affairs), the Real GDP of USA was 2.1% in 2022.

e... Read more about economy growth rate

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Commonly asked questions

On Study in Country

Q:   Is accommodation expensive in USA?

A: 

According to USCIS (US Citizenship and Immigration Services), 1,99,812 Indian students went to the USA for higher studies in 2022. The number of Indian students in the US increased by 19% in 2022. International students have the option of working while studying in US universities and earning experience plus money to support their costs of living. The average accommodation expense is INR 6.7 Lacs (based on 146 colleges).

The area of New England on the east coast of the US is the centre of all its renowned academic institutes. Most of the top-ranking colleges in the USA are located in the cities of Cambridge, New York, Florida and other areas. The average meal expense is INR 3.9 Lacs (based on 146 colleges).

Q:   What is the cost of living in USA for International students?

A: 

On average, a student spends approximately INR 93,000 in a month to fulfil living costs in USA. The cost of living in USA is 224.3% higher than the cost of living in India also the rent in USA is 769.9% higher than in India. Thus, it is natural that the cost of living in the USA is very high for an Indian student. The table given below specifies the estimated student cost of living in the USA that is based on different expenses.

Expenses in USA

Average Yearly / Monthly cost

Books and study material

$900 - $2,000 per year

Travel

$300 - $700 per year

Accommodation

$9,800 - $11,100 per year

Electricity

$100 - $150 per month

Food

On campus: $250 per month

Off-campus: $400 - $600 per month

Phone subscription

$50 per month

Home Internet

$45 - $50 per month

Health Insurance

$700 - $1,100 per year

Clothes

$500 per year

Water, Trash and Sewer

$50 - $75 per month

Note: These amounts will differ from state to state within the US. On average, the cost of Indian food in the USA is around USD 350 - USD 400 for one person. 

University of South Dakota FAQs

Q:   What is the acceptance rate of the University of South Dakota?

A: 

The acceptance rate for the University of South Dakota is 87%. That means that 87 students are selected from 100 applicants. The University is categorised as a less selective institute. However, applicants must give their best irrespective of the acceptance rate. Submitting all the required documents doesn’t guarantee admission.

Content authored by:

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Tasneem Hoda

Study Abroad Expert

Updated on Sep 28, 2023

University of South Dakota
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University of South Dakota
Location

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University CityVermillion, South Dakota, USA

University of South Dakota
Campuses

Departments Icon2   Campuses
University of South Dakota - VermillionUp Arrow Icon
Address

414 E Clark St, Vermillion, SD 57069, USA

University of South Dakota
Contact Information

Address

414 E Clark St, Vermillion, SD 57069, USA
Vermillion ( South Dakota)

Phone
605-677-5011

(For general query)

605-658-6140

(For admission query)

Go to College Website ->

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