---
title: South Dakota State University — PickACampus
description: Learn about South Dakota State University in Brookings, SD, including its 98% acceptance rate, tuition costs, and average graduate starting salaries.
url: https://pickacampus.com/college/168
last_updated: 2026-06-03
---

# South Dakota State University

South Dakota State University is a public institution located in Brookings, South Dakota, with a total enrollment of 9,198 students. The university maintains a 98% acceptance rate and a 17:1 student-faculty ratio, leading to a 62% graduation rate. Students graduate with a median debt of $23,250 and enter the workforce with a median starting salary of $49,564.

## Overview
- Location: Brookings, SD
- Type: Public
- Setting: college-town
- Total enrollment: 9,198

## Admissions
- Acceptance rate: 98%
- Average SAT: 1,120
- Average ACT: 22
- Average GPA: 3.30

## Cost
- In-state tuition: $9,299
- Out-of-state tuition: $12,809
- Room and board: $10,176
- Fees: $1,651
- Average financial aid: $7,000
- Average student debt at graduation: $23,250

## Outcomes
- 6-year graduation rate: 62%
- 4-year graduation rate: 46%
- Freshman retention: 83%
- Employment rate: 82%
- Average starting salary: $49,564

## Academics
- Student-faculty ratio: 17:1

## Common questions

Q: What is South Dakota State University's acceptance rate?
A: South Dakota State University's acceptance rate is 98%.

Q: How much does South Dakota State University cost?
A: South Dakota State University charges $9,299 for in-state tuition and $12,809 for out-of-state. Room and board and fees are additional.

Q: Where is South Dakota State University located?
A: South Dakota State University is located in Brookings, SD.

Q: What SAT score do you need for South Dakota State University?
A: The average SAT score at South Dakota State University is 1,120.

Q: What is the graduation rate at South Dakota State University?
A: South Dakota State University has a 6-year graduation rate of 62%.

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