South Dakota State University: Ranking, Courses and Fees, Requirement & Alumni for 2025

Highlights

Here are the key details related to studying in USA

Established In

1881

Total No. of Students

11465

Total International Students

810

Student Faculty Ratio

15:1

Acceptance Rate

65%

Accreditation

Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

Avg. Study Cost

INR 5.00 L

Avg. Cost of Living

INR 2.00 L

About South Dakota State University

Welcome to South Dakota State University, established in 1881, providing quality education for over a century. With a total student population of 12,000, including 1,500 international students, you'll find a diverse and vibrant community on campus.

Our campus spans across multiple locations, offering state-of-the-art facilities and a picturesque setting that enhances your learning experience. From modern lecture halls to extensive research labs, you'll have access to everything you need to succeed.

At South Dakota State University, we offer a wide range of popular programmes tailored to your academic interests. Our strong focus on industry alignment ensures that you receive a relevant and practical education that prepares you for the workforce.

Acceptance Rate: 65%
Intake Periods: Fall and Spring
Support Services: Dedicated support services for international students

South Dakota State University is proudly accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), ensuring that you receive a high-quality education that meets rigorous standards.

Top Courses

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Intakes and Admission Deadlines

JAN'2025

Closed

AUG'2025

Intake Open

Find Your Best Intake

Admission Requirements

Exams Required

Minimum scores for English Proficiency

5.5

For UG Students

For PG Students

For UG Students

Not Required

For PG Students

For UG Students

For PG Students

For UG Students

115

For PG Students

Get IELTS Mock Tests

Standardized Exam Scores

Not Required

For UG Students

Not Required

For PG Students

Not Required

For UG Students

Not Required

For PG Students

Rankings

US News

# 296

In Best National Schools - 2024

# 1172

In Best World Ranking Schools - 2023

# 288

In Best University Ranking Schools - 2022

# 1145

In Best World Ranking Schools - 2022

Webometrics - World

# 880

In Best World Ranking Schools - 2023

Know Your Admission Chances Here

Placements

South Dakota State University provides comprehensive placement assistance to international students to help them secure employment opportunities. The university has a dedicated Career Development Center that offers career counseling services to students. They conduct workshops and seminars on topics such as resume writing, interview skills, and job search strategies to prepare students for the job market. Additionally, the university organizes job fairs and networking events where students can connect with potential employers. SDSU also facilitates internships for eligible international students, with a significant number of students securing internships each year. The university has an online job portal where students can explore job opportunities and apply for positions. For students seeking Optional Practical Training (OPT) and Curricular Practical Training (CPT), the university provides guidance on the application process and work authorization rules. SDSU also offers visa and work authorization guidance to help students understand the requirements for obtaining a visa and working in the United States. Moreover, the university offers support for cultural adjustment to help international students adapt to the new environment.

What Services do They Offer?

1. Job Fairs and Networking Events

Some of the job fairs listed on the university website include the Annual Career Expo and the Engineering, Science, and Technology Career Fair.

2. Internships and Placement Support

Eligible international students can avail of internship opportunities, with a significant number of students securing internships each year.

3. OPT and CPT Guidance

The university provides guidance on the application process for Optional Practical Training (OPT) and Curricular Practical Training (CPT) to help students navigate work authorization rules.

4. Cultural Adjustment

SDSU offers support for cultural adjustment to help international students adapt to the new environment and thrive academically and socially.

Get Access To Internships in USA

Top recruiters at the South Dakota State University

Sanford Health

Daktronics

Raven Industries

CHS Inc.

South Dakota State University

Smithfield Foods

U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs

Avera Health

Great Western Bank

POET

Student Life

Student Groups and Organizations

South Dakota State University hosts over 200 student organizations including academic clubs, professional associations, cultural societies, and recreational clubs. These organizations give students opportunities to network, engage in leadership roles, and enjoy extracurricular activities. Prominent groups involve Students' Association, Hobo Day Committee (in charge of the university's captivating homecoming event), and multicultural organizations like the Native American Club and Latin American Student Association.

Libraries and Study Resources

Hilton M. Briggs Library is the main library at SDSU. It offers a vast selection of books, reference materials, access to academic databases, and research help. Specialized resources such as microfilm readers, media rooms, and group study rooms are also available. The library's quiet zones offer a serene environment ideal for individual study, while collaborative workstations facilitate group study. SDSU also has a Writing Center and a Math Help Center to support students academically.

Labs and Research Facilities

SDSU is home to various research labs spanning multiple disciplines, from engineering to agriculture and health sciences. The university is committed to innovation and technology with facilities like the Innovation Campus, an Edison Patent Award-winning research park, and the Animal Disease Research and Diagnostic Laboratory involved in national disease surveillance programs.

Athletic Facilities and Grounds

The Wellness Center houses fitness facilities, indoor climbing wall, basketball courts, and spaces for wellness programs. Dana J. Dykhouse Stadium is the home ground for the Jackrabbits, SDSU's football team. Frost Arena hosts the basketball and wrestling teams. Outdoor facilities include the Jackrabbit Athletic Complex for softball and soccer, and Fishback Soccer Park. The university is part of NCAA Division I athletics offering several sporting events for students.

Housing

SDSU provides a range of housing options. Traditional residence halls, corridors, and suites are available for first-year students. Apartment-style options, like Jackrabbit Village, are popular among upperclassmen. Students can also explore themed housing communities revolving around academic interests or lifestyle preferences such as the Honors Hall or the Wellness Community.

Social and Recreational Spots

The University Students' Union is a popular social hub hosting eateries, lounges, and game rooms. Club 71 in the Dykhouse Student Athlete Center is a trendy spot. Many students also frequent nearby downtown Brookings for its restaurants, cafes, and shops. The Performing Arts Center and the South Dakota Art Museum frequently host events and exhibitions.

Special Attractions

Key landmarks at SDSU include the Campanile, a bell tower that's a signature symbol of the institution. Coughlin Campanile, Coolidge Sylvan Theatre, and the South Dakota Art Museum are iconic attractions. The McCrory Gardens, another standout feature on campus, is a botanical garden and arboretum that's a favorite spot among students for relaxation and study.

Notable Alumni

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