---
title: Dakota State University — PickACampus
description: Learn about Dakota State University in Madison, SD. Explore tuition costs, acceptance rates, SAT/ACT scores, and median starting salaries.
url: https://pickacampus.com/college/912
last_updated: 2026-06-03
---

# Dakota State University

Dakota State University is a public institution located in a college-town setting in Madison, South Dakota, with a total enrollment of 2,071 students. The university has an 88% acceptance rate and a student-faculty ratio of 18:1, with an average SAT score of 1215 and an ACT score of 23 among admitted students. Post-graduation, students enter the workforce with a median starting salary of $46,146 and a median debt of $23,500.

## Overview
- Location: Madison, SD
- Type: Public
- Setting: college-town
- Total enrollment: 2,071

## Admissions
- Acceptance rate: 88%
- Average SAT: 1,215
- Average ACT: 23
- Average GPA: 3.20

## Cost
- In-state tuition: $9,654
- Out-of-state tuition: $12,756
- Room and board: $9,742
- Fees: $3,255
- Average financial aid: $9,500
- Average student debt at graduation: $23,500

## Outcomes
- 6-year graduation rate: 51%
- 4-year graduation rate: 34%
- Freshman retention: 75%
- Employment rate: 74%
- Average starting salary: $46,146

## Academics
- Student-faculty ratio: 18:1

## Common questions

Q: What is Dakota State University's acceptance rate?
A: Dakota State University's acceptance rate is 88%.

Q: How much does Dakota State University cost?
A: Dakota State University charges $9,654 for in-state tuition and $12,756 for out-of-state. Room and board and fees are additional.

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

Q: What SAT score do you need for Dakota State University?
A: The average SAT score at Dakota State University is 1,215.

Q: What is the graduation rate at Dakota State University?
A: Dakota State University has a 6-year graduation rate of 51%.

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