

University of South Dakota: Rankings, Fees, Programs, Placements
Authorized Partner
2 Campuses
- Estd. 1862
University of South Dakota Ranking 2026: QS, US, THE
University of South Dakota is one of the finest universities for higher education in the United States. South Dakota University is not just one of the top universities in the USA, but also a part of the top 500 universities in the world. When it comes to South Dakota University rankings, it is one of the highest-ranked universities worldwide. According to Shiksha Popularity Ranking, University of South Dakota has an overall ranking of #781 in world and #246 in USA. Apart from this, the university is also ranked by US News 2025 at #273 in National Universities and #152 in Top Public Schools. As per THE, South Dakota University is ranked between #1001 -1200 in World University Rankings 2025.
Furthermore, the university’s courses have been ranked nationally. According to Shiksha Popularity Ranking, the University of South Dakota subject ranking for 2025 are given below:
| Course name | Shiksha Popularity Ranking 2025 |
|---|---|
| Biomedical Engineering | #160 |
| MBA/PGDM | #126 |
| Biology | #151 |
| LL.M. | #151 |
| MS | #228 |
#805
#242
Commonly asked questions On Rankings
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.
Some of the Business course rankings at University of South Dakota are given as follows:
| Year | QS Global MBA Rankings | US News - UG Business rankings |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 201-250 | 199 |
| 2020 | 201-250 | 224 |
| 2021 | 201-250 | 201 |
| 2022 | 251+ | 212 |
| 2023 | 251+ | 219 |
The University of South Dakota is among the top ranked universities worldwide. South Dakota University offer more than 300-degree programs at undergraduate and postgraduate levels for its international students. According to Shiksha Popularity Ranking, University of South Dakota has an overall ranking of #781 in world and #246 in USA. Furthermore, South Dakota University is ranked by top ranking authorities worldwide that are shown below:
Rankings Authorities | Rank |
|---|---|
Shiskha Popularity Rankings 2025 | #781 in world and #246 in USA
|
QS US Universities 2021 | #251-300 |
Times Higher Education 2025 | #1001 -1200 |
US News & World Report 2025 | 273 in National Universities and #152 in Top Public Schools |
South Dakota University Degrees for Indian Students
The University of South Dakota is highly renowned for offering quality education at undergraduate and postgraduate levels for its Indian students. South Dakota University offers over 200 undergraduate and more than 80 graduate degree programs for its international students. The University of South Dakota courses are offered in multiple areas of study like Mathematics, Business, Science & Technology, Culture & Society, Art & Design, etc. through eight colleges/ schools. Some of the most popular majors at South Dakota University are; Health-related programs, Busines & Management, Education, and more. Furthermore, the most popualr programs among Indian and international students are as follows:
University of South Dakota Schools and Colleges
University of South Dakota is committed to offering quality education through its 8 colleges and schools that are listed below:
- College of Arts & Sciences
- Beacom School of Business
- School of Education
- College of Fine Arts
- Graduate School
- School of Health Sciences
- Knudson School of Law
- Sanford School of Medicine
Also read: Most Popular Programmes in the USA

Jatin + 88 others got admitted through us.
We can fast-track your application in a week.
Guided 4.4K students to USA universities.
Commonly asked questions On Popular Programs
The University of South Dakota is home to eight schools with 200+ undergraduate courses with 72 postgraduate courses for it’s national and international students in the global platform. Below are the courses offered by the University of South Dakota for international students
Most Popular Undergraduate Fields of Study | |
|---|---|
Nursing | Business |
Health Sciences | Elementary Education |
Biology/Medical Biology | Psychology |
Criminal Justice | Media & Journalism |
Kinesiology & Sport Management | Accounting |
The first year tuition fee for University of South Dakota MS course ranges between INR 8.8 Lakh and INR 11.1 Lakh 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 USD 35.
How to Get Into University of South Dakota: Admission Requirements for Indian Students
University of South Dakota offers admissions to students in Fall and Spring semester each year. International students are required to know about admission deadlines before they apply for courses at this university.
Application Deadline at University of South Dakota for Indian Students in 2025
Admission deadlines for Spring 2025 intake are given as follows-
|
Particulars |
UG Dates |
PG Dates |
|---|---|---|
|
Spring 2026 |
Nov 15, 2025 |
Nov 1, 2025 |
Is It to Get Into University of South Dakota? Acceptance Rate for Indian Students
According to various sources, University of South Dakota acceptance rate stands at 99% not making it selective for international student admissions.
University of South Dakota Application Fee 2025 for Indian Students- All You Need to Know
University of South Dakota do not refund application fee of INR 1,753 for UG and INR 3,067 for PG international students.
University of South Dakota Admission Requirements for International Students
The general eligibility requirements for international students at South Dakota University is given as follows:
- Academic Transcripts
- Statement of Purpose
- SAT/ACT scores
- GRE/GMAT
- Portfolio/CV
- Proof of English Language Requirements
- 3 Letters of Recommendation
- Copy of Passport
English Language Requirements for Indian Students
International and Indian students must meet English proficiency requirement at University of South Dakota that is listed below:
|
Test |
UG |
PG |
|---|---|---|
|
6.0 or above |
6.0 or above |
|
|
71 or above (iBT) 8 or above (Essential) |
79 or above (iBT) 8.5 or above (Essential |
|
|
105 or higher |
110 or higher |
|
|
48 or higher |
53 or higher |
Students can check the Admission intakes in the USA for International Students
- Application fees :USD 20 - 35
- Type of deadline :Regular
Commonly asked questions On Admissions
The University of South Dakota offers admissions in two intakes; the Fall intake and the Spring intake. The admissions for Fall 2024 intakes are over. However, international students can apply for the Spring 2025 intake at South Dakota University. Check below the admission deadlines for international students at the Universitsy of South Dakota.
University of South Dakota Spring 2025
| Particulars | UG Dates | PG Dates |
|---|---|---|
| Application Deadline | Oct 1, 2024 | Oct 1, 2024 |
| I-20 Issuance Deadline | Oct 15, 2024 | Oct 15, 2024 |
| Enrollment and Housing Deposit/Application Deadline | Nov 15, 2024 | Nov 15, 2024 |
| Arrival Deadline | Jan 3, 2025 | Jan 3, 2025 |
International students can apply to the University of South Dakota online through the 'Common App' application portal. Besides, applicants can also apply directly through South Dakota University's application portal. However, international students should check the minimum eligibility and deadlines before applying for the University of South Dakota. Moreover, the Gallagher International Center assists students through the process of apply for a visa with the relevant US consulate.
University of South DakotaSouth Dakota University Scholarships for Indian Students
The University of South Dakota offers various scholarships based on the merit of the applicants. South Dakota University awards nearly USD 10.7 million each year in student scholarships. All prospective students may apply for the University of South Dakota scholarships using the online academic scholarship application. The academic scholarship application is generally available in the fall of each year with a priority deadline in mid-Nov, and the final deadline for applying is Early Dec. Check below some of the most popular scholarships offered by the University of Dakota.
| Scholarship Name | Award |
|---|---|
| USD - Talent Scholarship (Art) for Incoming Students | Varies |
| USD - Talend Scholarship (Theater) | Varies |
| USD - Talent Scholarships (Music) | Varies |
| USD - Talent Scholarship (Art) for Current Students | Varies |
Commonly asked questions On Scholarships
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/INR 2.90 L 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.
*USD/INR = 82.88
Various scholarships are available from the University of South Dakota. The University of South Dakota grants student scholarships of around USD 10.7 million (INR 89 Cr) annually. All prospective students can apply for scholarships from the University of South Dakota through the online academic scholarship application. The application for the academic scholarship is usually accessible in the Fall of each year, with a mid-November priority deadline and an early December final deadline. (USD 1=INR 83.88)
Students can check the University of South Dakotas scholarships for international students below:
Scholarship Name | Scholarship Award |
|---|---|
Coyote Beginnings | USD 4,000 (INR 3.3L) |
Legacy Scholarship | USD 1,000 (INR 83K) |
Valedictorian Scholarship | USD 500 (INR 41K) |
Dual Credit Scholarship | USD 600 (i-6 USD credit hours) (INR 50k) |
Premier Scholarships | USD 40K to USD 48K (INR 33L-INR 40L) |
Departmental and Geographic Scholarships | USD 10K to USD 40K (INR 8.3L-INR33L) |
Army ROTC Scholarship | 100% tuition fees USD 6,000 for room (INR 5L) USD 600 for books (INR 50k) USD 420 for living allowance (INR 35K) |
University of South DakotaStudents Ratings & Reviews
- 40% students never faced discrimination in this university
South Dakota University Job Outcomes
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.
Top Sectors Where Indian Students Get Placed After Studying Abroad:
The alumni placement highlights at University of South Dakota are given as follows:
- Some of the top alumni organizations at USD include Sanford Health, Wells Fargo, Amazon, etc.
- A few of the top alumni industries at University of South Dakota include Business Development, Finance, Operations, etc.
- The top alumni course preferences at USD are Psychology, Accounting, etc.
Part-time Work for International Students
International students can work on campus only for the first year at University of South Dakota. Moreover, students are encouraged to work part time on campus to gain familiarity with American work culture. With minimum wage is USD 11.50 (INR 1,002) per hour, and international students can work up to 20 hours per week. Also, international students are required to pay income tax as required by federal law. International students working part time on campus are covered by the same legal rights as any other work in the US.
Top 10 In-Demand Part-Time Jobs for Indian Students
ROI After University of South Dakota | Is It Worth It for Indian Students?
According to sources available on web, the average salary of South Dakota University graduate is USD 62,500 (INR 54.78 L), annually.
Conversion used: USD 1 - INR 87.65
Top Employers Hiring Indian Students
Some of the top employers at the South Dakota University are as follows:
-
University of South Dakota
-
Sanford Health
-
Avera Health
- Sioux Falls School District
Top Recruiters
Commonly asked questions On Placements
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 DakotaStudent profile
Others
89%
Hispanic
4%
Black
3%
American
1%
Asian
1%
In state
100%
24 and under
90%
25 and over
9%
UG Number of Applicant
Overall Graduation Rate
UG Enrollment
PG Enrollment
Study in USA
Cost of Living
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.
Read more: Studying in USA
Key Facts About USA
Insights on education, demographics & weather.Commonly asked questions On Study in Country
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 Lakh (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 Lakh (based on 146 colleges).
South Dakota University FAQs
According to some unknown sources from Quora, given below are some factors through which a student can decide what is better for them.
- South Dakota has a larger Native American population than North Dakota - Unfortunately that means that there higher levels of anti-Native prejudice than in most areas of North Dakota.
- North Dakota has two of the three military bases that exist in the Dakotas - All three (Grand Forks, Minot, and Ellsworth) are essentially jobs programs for the mostly economically depressed regions surrounding them.
- South Dakota has more lenient usury laws which is why several major credit card companies opened regional headquarters there.
- North Dakota’s oil boom (which has been “busted” since the plunge in oil prices over the last five years) allowed for the lightly populated western region to become significantly more important to the region than any area of South Dakota. - South Dakota’s mining industry mainly consists of minor gold, aggregate, and limestone quarrying.
- While both are exceptionally “White” (84% to 80.25%) North Dakota is surprisingly more “diverse” than South Dakota is - Racism, poverty, and a lack of jobs have largely kept minorities out of both states, although the oil boom did briefly boost the non-military, non-college student minority populations in both states.
University of South Dakota
Student Forum
Answered a month ago
South Dakota is known for offering more than 200 UG programs and more than 80 graduate programs. Some of South Dakota's Graduate School Rankings by U.S. News are given below:
| #112 in Political Science | #179 in Best Public Affairs Programs |
| #127 in Best Law Schools | #191 in Psychology |
| #132 in Best Education Schools | #201 in Social Work |
| #137 in English | #220 in Best Fine Arts Programs |
| #161 in Chemistry | #275 in Biological Sciences |
R
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
The University of South Dakota is one of the top universities for pursuing higher education in the USA. The University of South Dakota we have a team of international ambassadors. There are dozens of cultural events on campus each year, including Diwali, Eid, and other events of interest to South As
S
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
Yes, the Gallagher International Center guides students through the process to secure off-campus housing. It is highly encouraged for students to work closely with the team at the Gallagher International Center to avoid signing leases that may not be suitable for international students. There is ple
A
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
According to the University of South Dakota, over 1000 on-campus housing options are available for students choosing to live on campus. For students choosing off-campus housing, the Gallagher International Centre (GIC) looks after the university’s overseas affairs and provides strong support to stud
S
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 9 months ago
The difference in rankings between the MS Business Analytics programs at the University of South Florida (USF) and the University of South Dakota (USD) comes down to a few factors. USF is a larger, more established university with a broader reputation, while USD may offer a more specialised or focus
R
Contributor-Level 10
About the author
University of South Dakota
College main building
Main Building
American Studies

University of South DakotaCampuses
1400 W. 22nd St. Sioux Falls, SD 57105
Visit official siteUniversity of South DakotaContact Information
414 E Clark St, Vermillion, SD 57069, USA
Vermillion ( South Dakota)
(For general query)
(For admission query)
University of South Dakota Popular & recent articles









Comments