The University of South Dakota, founded in 1862 and headquartered in Vermillion, is the state’s flagship public research university and the oldest public institution in South Dakota. It sits at #273 on the US News Best National Universities list and is one of the more affordable state universities open to Indian applicants.
USD runs 200+ undergraduate and 80+ graduate programmes, all in English, spanning business, computer science, biomedical sciences, health services, engineering and the liberal arts. Indian applicants primarily target the MS in USA route through Beacom School of Business and the College of Arts and Sciences, with confirmed August and January intakes each year.
- US News Best National Universities: #273 (2026 edition)
- Acceptance rate: 98% (officially disclosed)
- Intakes for Indian students: Fall (August) and Spring (January)
- International PG tuition: USD 13,441 per year (INR 12.87 lakh)
- Average MBA starting salary: USD 68,000 (INR 65.10 lakh), as per USD Beacom placement disclosures
Also Check: MS Universities in USA
USD extends in-state tuition rates to several Midwest states, so international tuition sits well below the private-university median. Indian students should budget for the F-1 study in USA visa financial certification and the annual living cost of USD 9,498 (INR 9.09 lakh) that the university publishes.
Exchange rate used: 1 USD = INR 95.74 as of August 2026
Admission Status: Open (Spring 2027 intake). The Fall 2026 undergraduate deadline of 1 August 2026 has passed; Indian applicants should now target Spring 2027 with a 15 December 2026 undergraduate deadline and 5 December 2026 graduate deadline for MBA, MAcc, MS Business Analytics, MS AI and MS Computer Science. The next cycle, for Fall 2027 entry, is expected to open October 2026 on a rolling basis, with an expected 1 August 2027 close (based on the prior cycle).
Table of Contents
- Popular Courses and Fees at University of South Dakota 2027
- University of South Dakota Admission 2027
- University of South Dakota Admission Requirements for Indian Applicants 2027
- University of South Dakota Acceptance Rate 2027
- USD Fees and Cost of Living for Indian Students 2027
- University of South Dakota Campus, Facilities and Student Life
- University of South Dakota Scholarships 2027
- University of South Dakota Rankings 2027
- University of South Dakota Placements and Career Outcomes 2027
- University of South Dakota vs Peer Universities
- University of South Dakota FAQs
Popular USD Courses and Fees 2027
USD charges a flat international rate of USD 447.90 per credit for graduate coursework and USD 453.85 per credit at the undergraduate level for 2026-27, so total programme cost scales with credit load. Most master’s programmes run 30 to 36 credits over 2 years; bachelor’s programmes total 120 credits over 4 years.
Top 10 USD PG Fees 2027
| Programme | Total Fee (USD) | Total Fee (INR lakh) | Entry Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
| MS Computer Science | 26,882 (estimated) | 25.74 lakh (estimated) | Bachelor’s with 55% or CGPA 5.5/10 (recommended) |
| MBA | 24,635 (estimated) | 23.59 lakh (estimated) | Bachelor’s with 55% or CGPA 5.5/10 (recommended) |
| MBA Business Analytics | 24,635 (estimated) | 23.59 lakh (estimated) | Bachelor’s with 55% or CGPA 5.5/10 (recommended) |
| MBA Finance | 24,635 (estimated) | 23.59 lakh (estimated) | Bachelor’s with 55% or CGPA 5.5/10 (recommended) |
| MBA Health Services Administration | 24,635 (estimated) | 23.59 lakh (estimated) | Bachelor’s with 55% or CGPA 5.5/10 (recommended) |
| MS Biomedical Engineering | 26,882 (estimated) | 25.74 lakh (estimated) | Bachelor’s with 55% or CGPA 5.5/10 (recommended) |
| Master of Accountancy | 13,437 (estimated) | 12.87 lakh (estimated) | Bachelor’s with 55% or CGPA 5.5/10 (recommended) |
| MS Business Analytics | 13,437 (estimated) | 12.87 lakh (estimated) | Bachelor’s with 55% or CGPA 5.5/10 (recommended) |
| MS AI | 26,882 (estimated) | 25.74 lakh (estimated) | Bachelor’s with 55% or CGPA 5.5/10 (recommended) |
| MS Biomedical Sciences | 26,882 (estimated) | 25.74 lakh (estimated) | Bachelor’s with 55% or CGPA 5.5/10 (recommended) |
Top 5 USD UG Fees 2027
| Programme | Total Fee (USD) | Total Fee (INR lakh) | Entry Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
| BS Computer Science | 54,464 (estimated) | 52.14 lakh (estimated) | Class 12 with 70% to 85% (recommended); GPA equivalent 2.6/4.0 |
| BBA Operational Analytics | 54,464 (estimated) | 52.14 lakh (estimated) | Class 12 with 70% to 85% (recommended); GPA equivalent 2.6/4.0 |
| BS Psychology | 54,464 (estimated) | 52.14 lakh (estimated) | Class 12 with 70% to 85% (recommended); GPA equivalent 2.6/4.0 |
| BS Nursing | 54,464 (estimated) | 52.14 lakh (estimated) | Class 12 with 70% to 85% (recommended); GPA equivalent 2.6/4.0 |
| BBA (General) | 54,464 (estimated) | 52.14 lakh (estimated) | Class 12 with 70% to 85% (recommended); GPA equivalent 2.6/4.0 |
Insider note: Indian applicants concentrate on MS Computer Science, MBA Business Analytics and Master of Accountancy at USD because the STEM-designated tracks unlock a 3-year OPT window, and the per-credit fee is one of the lowest at any US public flagship.
Read More: USD Fees and Cost of Living Guide
University of South Dakota Admission 2027
USD runs two intakes each year: Fall (classes begin late August) and Spring (classes begin mid-January). Fall is the primary intake for Indian applicants because most graduate assistantships and scholarship awards are attached to it.
| Milestone | Date | Notes for Indian Applicants |
|---|---|---|
| Spring 2027 UG application deadline | 15 December 2026 | International deadline applies to Indian applicants |
| Spring 2027 PG deadline (MBA, MAcc, MS Business Analytics, MS AI, MS CS) | 5 December 2026 | Named programmes only; other PG deadlines vary; verify at official page |
| Fall 2027 application opens | Expected October 2026 (based on prior cycle) | Rolling review after opening |
| Credential verification (WES) | Start 8 weeks before deadline | WES ICAP recommended; USD accepts equivalent NACES evaluators |
| Programme start (Spring 2027) | 11 January 2027 | New student arrival 7 January; international orientation 8 January |
[Source: USD International Graduate Admissions]
Planning note: Two graduate tracks have earlier deadlines than the rest, so applicants targeting the tech masters should submit by early December. Missing the graduate December deadline pushes intake to Fall 2027.
Read More: USD Admissions Guide for Indian Students
USD Admission Requirements for Indian Applicants 2027
USD is moderately selective and posts a single academic threshold plus English proof for most Indian applicants.
- Bachelor’s degree (PG): minimum GPA equivalent of 2.6/4.0, matching roughly 55% or CGPA 5.5/10 (recommended); departments may set higher bars
- English test (PG): TOEFL iBT 79, IELTS Academic 6.0, PTE 53, Duolingo 110, Cambridge English 169, TOEFL Essentials 8.5
- Credential verification: WES ICAP or equivalent NACES member evaluation of Indian transcripts
- Class 12 (UG): equivalent US GPA 2.6/4.0 OR ACT 21+ OR SAT 1070+; roughly 70% to 85% Class 12 (recommended)
- English test (UG): TOEFL iBT 71, IELTS Academic 6.0, PTE 48, Duolingo 105
Key insight: USD does not require GRE or GMAT for its MBA or most MS admissions, which is unusual for a US public flagship and removes one full test cost from the applicant timeline. Confirm the waiver in writing with the Graduate School before you skip the test.
University of South Dakota Acceptance Rate 2027
USD posts an officially disclosed acceptance rate of 98%, applicable to both undergraduate and graduate programmes as per the university’s admissions summary. The figure is consistent across US News, Collegedunia and USD’s own admissions overview, so reliability is high.
| Year | Acceptance Rate | Trend |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 98% | Stable |
| 2025 | 98% | Stable |
[Source: US News Best Colleges 2026]
The high headline rate reflects a policy of admitting most applicants who clear the academic and English thresholds. Individual departments (Nursing, Physical Therapy, MBA cohorts) apply stricter internal cutoffs on GPA and prior coursework.
Reality check: A 98% acceptance rate does not mean automatic entry for Indian applicants. WES-evaluated GPA below 2.6, an incomplete financial certification or an IELTS score under 6.0 will still trigger a denial or a deferred decision.
Read More: USD Acceptance Rate
USD Fees and Cost of Living for Indian Students 2027
USD’s published total annual cost for international students sits at USD 25,514 (INR 24.43 lakh) for undergraduates and USD 25,841 (INR 24.74 lakh) for graduates, covering tuition, living expenses, books and insurance.
USD Tuition Fees for Indian Students 2027
Tuition scales with credit load; the figures below assume a full-time international schedule of 30 UG credits and 18 PG credits per academic year.
| Level | Annual Tuition and Fees (USD) | Annual Tuition and Fees (INR lakh) |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate (30 credits) | 13,616 | 13.04 lakh |
| Graduate (18 credits) | 13,441 | 12.87 lakh |
[Source: USD International Tuition and Costs]
Monthly Cost of Living in Vermillion for Indian Students
| Expense | Monthly (USD) | Monthly (INR) | Annual (USD) | Annual (INR lakh) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (on-campus, shared) | 500 | 47,870 | 4,500 | 4.31 lakh |
| Food (meal plan or groceries) | 350 | 33,509 | 3,150 | 3.02 lakh |
| Transportation | 60 | 5,744 | 540 | 0.52 lakh |
| Books and supplies | 110 | 10,532 | 1,000 | 0.96 lakh |
| Personal, health insurance | 135 | 12,925 | 1,708 | 1.63 lakh |
| Total | 1,155 | 1,10,580 | 10,898 | 10.44 lakh |
[Source: USD official cost estimate (living expenses USD 9,498 plus books, insurance, discipline fees USD 2,400)]
Insider note: Vermillion rent runs USD 400 to USD 650 for off-campus shared apartments, well below Sioux Falls or Rapid City rates, and USD guarantees first-year international students a residence hall spot at the published rate.
Read More: Cost of Living in USA for Indian Students
University of South Dakota Campus, Facilities and Student Life
USD’s single main campus sits in Vermillion, a small university town roughly 60 miles south of Sioux Falls with direct interstate access.
- Location: Vermillion, southeast South Dakota; nearest airport is Sioux Falls Regional (60 miles / 96 km), with shuttle pickups offered during international arrival week
- Housing: guaranteed on-campus accommodation for first-year students; average residence hall cost USD 4,500 per year (INR 4.31 lakh)
- Notable facility: the Gallagher International Center coordinates admissions, orientation and immigration advising in one office
- International community: students from 37 countries; the International Club is one of USD’s largest student bodies and hosts Festival of Nations, Diwali and Eid events
What Indian students say: low cost of living and easy access to on-campus jobs are the most cited advantages; the small-town setting is described as safe but limited for weekend social life without a car.
University of South Dakota Scholarships 2027
USD awards roughly USD 10.7 million in scholarships each year, with two automatic merit awards specifically available to incoming international students.
| Scholarship | Type | Award Value | Eligibility | Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Coyote Commitment Scholarship | Automatic merit | USD 1,000 to USD 1,500 per year (INR 0.96 to 1.44 lakh) | Incoming international freshmen; GPA-based tiers | Auto-awarded on admission |
| Coyote Beginnings Scholarship | Automatic merit | Up to USD 4,000 per year (INR 3.83 lakh) | First-time freshmen; high school GPA-based | Auto-awarded on admission |
| Coyote Beginnings Grant | Automatic need-based | USD 1,500 to USD 2,500 per year (INR 1.44 to 2.39 lakh) | First-time freshmen meeting criteria | Auto-awarded on admission |
| International Transfer Scholarship | Merit transfer | USD 3,000 per year (INR 2.87 lakh) | Transfer students with 3.0+ GPA | Auto-awarded on admission |
| Graduate Assistantship | Tuition remission + stipend | Varies by department; verify at official page | Enrolled graduate students | Departmental |
[Source: USD Gallagher International Center scholarship listing]
Planning note: The Coyote Commitment award is small in absolute terms but automatic, which means Indian freshmen see it reflected in the I-20 without a separate essay round. Graduate assistantships carry the highest total value and should be pursued directly with the target department.
Read More: USD Scholarships Guide
University of South Dakota Rankings 2027
USD’s strongest position is #273 on the US News Best National Universities list; the university is not ranked in QS World Rankings 2027 but does appear in the THE and US News global tables.
| Ranking Body | Latest Edition | Previous Edition | Two Editions Back |
|---|---|---|---|
| QS World | 2027: Not ranked | 2026: Not ranked | 2025: Not ranked |
| THE World | 2026: #1001 to 1200 | 2025: #1001 to 1200 | 2024: #1001 to 1200 |
| US News Best National Universities | 2026: #273 | 2025: #273 | 2024: #299 |
| US News Best Global Universities | 2025-2026: #1902 | 2024-2025: verify at official page | 2023-2024: verify at official page |
| Collegedunia Study Abroad | #593 of 824 (global); #282 of 357 (USA) | NA | NA |
[Source: THE World University Rankings, US News, Collegedunia Study Abroad]
By subject, THE places USD at #501 to 600 for Physical Sciences and #601 to 800 for Medical and Health, with additional entries in Psychology and Life Sciences.
Key insight: USD is a US News accredited SEVP institution, which is what matters for the F-1 visa and Day 1 CPT eligibility. Rankings should be read alongside programme fit rather than as a standalone screen.
Read More: USD Rankings Analysis
USD Placements and Career Outcomes 2027
USD’s Career Development office reports strong graduate outcomes across business, health and applied sciences, driven by regional employer partnerships and STEM-OPT eligibility for most technology masters.
- Career service: Career Development Center runs mock interviews, resume review and an on-campus recruiting portal (Handshake)
- Median PG starting salary: USD 55,000 to USD 68,000 (INR 52.66 to 65.10 lakh); labeled as market median for public university MBA and MS graduates
- Top recruiter sectors: Healthcare (Sanford Health, Avera), Financial Services (Wells Fargo, Citi), Technology (Microsoft, Amazon) — representative regional employers
- Post-study work: 12-month OPT for most graduates; 24-month STEM extension for MS Computer Science, MS AI, MS Biomedical Engineering and MS Business Analytics
- MBA outcomes: Beacom School of Business median post-MBA salary near USD 68,000 (INR 65.10 lakh); labeled as market median
Insider note: Indian graduates from USD tend to convert full-time offers through OPT internships completed in Sioux Falls, Minneapolis or Omaha rather than through Vermillion-based recruiting; plan travel and networking accordingly.
University of South Dakota vs Peer Universities
The peer set below covers other US regional public universities that Indian applicants shortlist alongside USD, plus one cross-country comparison.
| University | QS World 2027 | Collegedunia Study Abroad 2026 | Avg Annual PG Fee (USD / INR lakh) | Differentiator |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of South Dakota | Not ranked | #593 of 824 global | 13,441 / 12.87 lakh | Lowest US public tuition band with GRE-optional MBA |
| South Dakota State University | Not ranked | #589 of 824 global (verify at official page) | 14,027 / 13.43 lakh (estimated) | Larger STEM footprint and agricultural research strengths |
| North Dakota State University | Not ranked | Verify at official page | 16,442 / 15.74 lakh (estimated) | Engineering PhD pipeline and dual-degree paths |
| University of Wyoming | #801 to 1000 | Verify at official page | 18,285 / 17.51 lakh (estimated) | QS-ranked with strong energy and geology programmes |
USD stands out on affordability and English-test flexibility. Its 98% acceptance rate and no-GRE MBA make it the lowest-friction Midwest US option for Indian applicants who prioritise cost and STEM-OPT access over ranking prestige.
The University of South Dakota fits Indian applicants who want a low-cost US public flagship, STEM-OPT eligibility on tech masters, and a straightforward 98% acceptance route without GRE or GMAT. Full four-year UG cost of INR 52.14 lakh against a median PG starting salary near INR 65.10 lakh gives a workable ROI, and the automatic Coyote Commitment award reduces first-year outlay.
It is not for applicants chasing top-100 QS or THE brand recognition, big-city internship density, or research-intensive PhD placement. Applicants with those priorities should look at MS universities in USA such as Arizona State University or the University of Cincinnati as realistic alternatives.
University of South Dakota FAQs
Ques. Does USD require GRE or GMAT for MBA admission?
Ans. The University of South Dakota does not require the GRE or GMAT for its MBA or most MS admissions, which is unusual for a US public flagship. Applicants must still submit WES-evaluated transcripts, a bachelor’s degree equivalent to a US four-year degree, and an English proficiency score. Confirm the waiver in writing with the Graduate School before choosing to skip either test.
Ques. What English test scores does USD accept for Indian graduate applicants?
Ans. USD accepts TOEFL iBT 79, IELTS Academic 6.0, PTE 53, Duolingo English Test 110, Cambridge English 169 and TOEFL Essentials 8.5 for graduate admission. Undergraduate minimums are lower at TOEFL 71, IELTS 6.0, PTE 48 and Duolingo 105. Indian applicants from English-medium bachelor’s programmes should still submit a test unless the Graduate School confirms a waiver.
Ques. Can Indian students work part-time while studying at USD?
Ans. F-1 students at the University of South Dakota can work up to 20 hours per week on campus during the academic term and 40 hours per week during official breaks. On-campus jobs at USD include library assistantships, dining services, IT helpdesk and residence hall roles. Off-campus employment requires prior authorisation through CPT for course-linked internships or OPT after programme completion.
Ques. Which USD programmes are STEM-designated for the OPT extension?
Ans. Master’s programmes designated STEM at USD include MS Computer Science, MS AI, MS Business Analytics, MS Biomedical Engineering and MS Biomedical Sciences. These qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension on top of the standard 12-month OPT, giving Indian graduates up to 36 months of US work eligibility. Verify each programme’s CIP code with the Graduate School before enrolling.
Ques. What are the USD application fees for international applicants?
Ans. USD charges a USD 20 application fee for undergraduate international applicants and USD 35 for graduate applicants. Both fees are non-refundable and payable online at the time of application submission. Fee waivers are limited and generally not extended to Indian applicants; applicants should budget for WES evaluation (about USD 200) and English test costs separately.
Ques. How does USD verify Indian transcripts and marksheets?
Ans. The University of South Dakota requires international transcripts to be evaluated by a NACES member evaluator, with WES ICAP as the preferred pathway. Indian applicants must send sealed official transcripts and Class 10 and 12 marksheets directly to WES, which then delivers the report to USD. Applicants should start the WES process at least 8 weeks before the application deadline.
Ques. Which Indian banks lend for education at USD?
Ans. USD is a recognised institution for education loans from SBI, HDFC Credila, Bank of Baroda, Axis Bank and ICICI Bank, as well as international lenders such as Prodigy Finance and MPower Financing. Loans typically cover tuition and living costs up to INR 30 lakh unsecured and higher amounts against collateral. Sanction letters can be used for the I-20 financial certification.
Ques. Can dependents accompany Indian students to USD on an F-2 visa?
Ans. Spouses and unmarried children under 21 of USD F-1 students can apply for the F-2 dependent visa. Dependents cannot work in the US on F-2 status; F-2 children can enrol in US schools. The applicant must show additional financial certification of about USD 4,500 per dependent per year on top of the base international student budget for the I-20.
University of South Dakota Program Fees & Deadlines
| Program | Important Dates | Fees | Application Fees | Eligibility | Financial Aid |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
MBA 2 years | USD 13,127 /Yr | 35 | GPA 3.0, TOEFL(79), IELTS(6.0), Duolingo-110 | ||
MBA Business Analytics 2 years | USD 13,127 /Yr | 35 | GPA 3.0, TOEFL-79, IELTS-6.0, Duolingo-110 | ||
Application Deadline For Spring 2026 Intake (5th Dec 2026) | USD 15,309 /Yr | 36 | GPA 3.0, TOEFL- 79, IELTS- 6.0, Duolingo- 110, PTE- 53 | - | |
M.S Computer Science 2 years | Application Deadline For Spring 2026 Intake (5th Dec 2026) | USD 13,140 /Yr | 36 | GPA 3.0, TOEFL- 79, IELTS- 6.0, Duolingo- 110, PTE- 53 | - |
B.B.A Operational Analytics 4 years | USD 13,299 /Yr | 20 | GPA 2.6, TOEFL-4, IELTS-6.0, Duolingo-105 | - |
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University of South Dakota comparison
| University Name | University of South Dakota | South Dakota State University | University of Wisconsin |
|---|---|---|---|
| Collegedunia Score | 4.2 Out of 10 | 4.1 Out of 10 | 6.8 Out of 10 |
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| Acceptance Rate | 99.0 % | 99.0 % | 45.0 % |
| Exam Score | - | ||
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| - | Read Full Comparison | Read Full Comparison |
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Overall 593 out of 824 in Global Ranking
Overall 1001 out of 3118 in Global Ranking
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University of South Dakota Reviews
1 Reviews Found
Likes
- I really liked the freedom that college life afforded.
- I really enjoyed the Greek system there.
Dislikes
- I didn't like how much people drank or binge drank.
Overview
Since I was a resident of the state it was very easy for me to get it. I had to take a test called the ACT. I took it twice and got a very decent score. I was immediately accepted into the freshman class that year.
Campus Life
There were lots of clubs on campus. I was in the radio station as extracurricular the entire time that I was there and cherish the memories. There's also very active Greek scene that took up a lot of my free time.
University of South Dakota Scholarships
| Name | Scholarship Per Student | Level of Study | Type | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jagdish Bhagwati Fellowship | Scholarship per studentVariable Amount | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeCollege-Specific | |
| Bharat Petroleum Scholarship | Scholarship per studentVariable Amount | Level Of StudyMaster | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Comindware Scholarship | Scholarship per student$4,000 | Level Of StudyApprenticeship | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Forktip Women’s- Innovation Scholarship | Scholarship per studentVariable Amount | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeCollege-Specific | |
| FINCAD Women in Finance Scholarship | Scholarship per student$20,000 | Level Of StudyMaster | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Jane M. Klausman Women in Business Scholarship | Scholarship per student$5,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based |
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University of South Dakota Admissions
Application Portal: https://apply.sdbor.edu/login.cfm
Early Action Deadlines
Important Date: November1 (Application deadline)Important Date: April1 (Application results)Regular Decision Deadlines
Important Date: January15 (Application deadline)Important Date: April1 (Application results)
University of South Dakota Exam Scores
Attendance Cost
The table shows average yearly cost of attendance for international students. Amount may vary with the course opted, nature of accommodation, and personal spending habits of a candidate.Check Program wise Fees
University of South Dakota Campuses, Schools & Faculties
University of South Dakota Accreditations
Faculty
| Total Faculty | Full Time | Part Time | Graduate Assistants |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7579 | 5108 | 2471 | 274 |
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The graduate admission deadline for University of South Dakota is April 15 for Fall semester and October 15 for Spring semester. Applications along with the necessary documents are to be submitted before the given deadlines.