This college guide uses the most recent data available provided by the U.S. Department of Education. This information was last updated on April 25th, 2023.
University of South Dakota Admission Requirements Guide
Whether you’re just starting to consider University of South Dakota as an option or are well into the application process, this guide will provide a comprehensive overview of the University of South Dakota undergraduate admission requirements. After reading this guide, you will understand what needs to be done to maximize your chances of being admitted to this institution’s undergraduate program.
University of South Dakota Acceptance Rate
For the most recent class, the University of South Dakota acceptance rate was 87.01%. While odds of being accepted into this university are favorable, it is still important to follow the admission requirements. Neglecting to include even one required component could result in University of South Dakota discarding your application without offering you a chance to resubmit. On that note, let’s discuss these key requirements.
University of South Dakota GPA Requirements
Every high school has its own method of constructing students’ grade point averages (GPA). Some secondary schools use a weighted GPA system, where they take into account the rigor of honors courses and weigh them more heavily, and others use an unweighted GPA system, in which letter grades all carry the same weight regardless of the course’s difficulty.
To level the playing field, schools often compare applicants through their unweighted GPA and consider the number of honors and advanced courses separately. This is how University of South Dakota typically conducts its college application review process.
University of South Dakota Average GPA
When looking at undergraduate students who were most recently admitted, the University of South Dakota average GPA is 3.4. Although there are no GPA requirements for admission, it is strongly recommended that prospective students aim for at least a 3.4 to give themselves an adequate chance of being accepted into University of South Dakota.
University of South Dakota SAT Score Requirements
The SAT is a standardized test that measures college readiness and educational foundation. The SAT has been used for nearly 100 years to test prospective students in mathematics, reading, writing, and language. Here are the SAT metrics to take into account when applying to University of South Dakota.
University of South Dakota Average SAT Scores
When looking at the undergraduate students who were in the most recently admitted class, the average University of South Dakota SAT Score was 1122.
Here is the range of University of South Dakota SAT scores segmented by the three sections of the test: Critical Reading, Math, and Writing.
SAT Scores of Undergraduate Students Recently Admitted to University of South Dakota: | |||
| 25th Percentile | Median | 75th Percentile | |
| Critical Reading | 510 | 575 | 640 |
| Math | 540 | 595 | 650 |
| Writing | 450 | 520 | 590 |
University of South Dakota ACT Score Requirements
The ACT was founded in 1969 and serves as another college readiness measurement tool. The four subject areas are: English, mathematics, reading, and science. Here are the details regarding University of South Dakota’s ACT Requirements.
University of South Dakota Average ACT Scores
When examining the most recently accepted undergraduate class, the median ACT Score for University of South Dakota is 22.
Here is an updated range of University of South Dakota ACT scores segmented by the three sections of the exam: English, Math, and Writing.
ACT Scores of Undergraduate Students Recently Admitted to University of South Dakota: | |||
| 25th Percentile | Median | 75th Percentile | |
| English | 18 | 22 | 25 |
| Math | 18 | 22 | 26 |
| Writing | |||
University of South Dakota Application Requirements
Does University of South Dakota Use the Common App?
Like most major U.S. schools, University of South Dakota does use the Common Application for their admissions process. The Common App is a unified application that prospective students use to apply to undergraduate colleges and universities. It allows applicants to use a single application that can be sent to as many colleges as they apply to, instead of repeatedly inputting the same demographic and academic information per school. University of South Dakota may request additional materials, such as supplemental essays and questions, but the primary application structure remains the same.
Does University of South Dakota Require Letters of Recommendation?
University of South Dakota does not require a letter of recommendation from a teacher. Even though it’s not required, you are allowed to submit a teacher recommendation letter as supplemental material in your application. It is highly recommended that you do so, especially if you have a strong relationship with a teacher who is willing to attest to your academic and interpersonal skills.
University of South Dakota Application Checklist
See our application checklist for University of South Dakota below to ensure you complete and submit the proper materials.
Required Application Materials:
- Completed Common App
- Standardized Test Scores, such as the SAT or ACT
- Personal Statement (College Essay)
- University of South Dakota Application Fee or Fee Waiver
- Academic Transcripts (at the time of submission and when senior year first semester grades are released)
Optional Application Materials:
- Additional Recommendation Letters (Teacher Evaluations)
University of South Dakota Facts & Frequently Asked Questions
Is University of South Dakota Public or Private?
University of South Dakota is a public university. This institution primarily receives funding from SD state taxes and student tuition. Public colleges also tend to designate substantially different tuition rates for in-state students as compared to out-of-state students.
How Many Students Does University of South Dakota Have?
University of South Dakota’s student body is made up of 5328 undergraduate degree-seeking students, according to our latest data. University of South Dakota offers the benefits of both large and small schools. The class sizes and student to faculty ratios are much lower than what a large school would have, and yet the college still offers a variety of options to network and get to know your professors.
How do I apply to University of South Dakota?
Make sure you have all of the required application materials we covered on hand. You can learn more about the application process for this particular institution at University of South Dakota’s Website.
Where is University of South Dakota?
University of South Dakota is located in Vermillion, SD. To visualize where University of South Dakota’s campus is based in relation to Vermillion’s downtown area and landmarks, take a look at the interactive map below.
University of South Dakota Campus Map
Final Thoughts on Applying to University of South Dakota
Hopefully this guide helped you to learn more about the admissions requirements for University of South Dakota. When applying to colleges, remember to keep in mind that not every school will be a good fit. Take the time to evaluate what’s most important to you, such as the school’s academic opportunities, financial aid benefits, and location. All of the application components we covered are important – take your time to put your best foot forward. The College Grid team wishes you the best of luck on your college applications!
Sydney Janssen
As a valedictorian in high school, I developed a strong passion for learning and pushing myself to achieve academic success. Now, as a first-generation college graduate, I'm excited to share my experiences and insights with others who may be navigating similar paths through College Grid.