University of South Dakota
Overview
The University of South Dakota was established in 1862. The university is the state’s flagship university and its oldest public institution of higher education. Located in Vermillion, South Dakota, USD offers a comprehensive range of academic programs, including the state’s only medical and law schools. USD had a total enrollment of 9,868 students, with approximately 62.3% attending full-time. The university boasts a student-faculty ratio of 15:1, reflecting its commitment to personalized learning. Furthermore, USD maintains a highly accessible admissions policy, with an acceptance rate of around 99%.
Highlights
Acceptance Rate- 99%
Total International Students- 600
Student to Faculty Ratio- 15:1
Placement Rate- 89%
University of South Dakota Rankings
The University of South Dakota is a well-regarded public research university that consistently ranks among the top-tier institutions in the United States. It has consistently performed well in national rankings, particularly for its co-op programs and specific academic programs. Here’s a brief overview:
Ranking Agency | Rank |
US News National Rankings | #273 |
Top Public School (US News) | #152 |
Nursing (US News) | #149 |
University of South Dakota Intakes
The University of South Dakota (USD) primarily offers two main intakes for admissions:
- Fall Intake: This is the most popular intake, with classes typically beginning in August.
- Spring Intake: Classes for the Spring intake usually start in January.
Some programs may also offer a Summer Intake, which generally begins in May, though this is less common for complete degree programs.
University of South Dakota Courses
USD offers a variety of graduate programs. Here’s a table of some popular graduate programs for international students at USD:
Program Name | Duration (Approx.) | Total Annual Fees for International Students |
Master of Business Administration (MBA) | 1.5 – 2 years | $12,768 – $15,000 |
Master of Science (MS) in Computer Science | 1.5 – 2 years | $12,768 – $15,000 |
Master of Arts (MA) in English | 1.5 – 2 years | $12,160 – $12,768 |
Master of Science (MS) in Biology | 2 years | $12,000 – $13,000 |
Master of Science (MS) in Chemistry | 2 years | $12,000 – $13,000 |
Master of Professional Accountancy (MPA) | 1.5 – 2 years | $12,000 – $13,000 |
Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) | 3 years | ~$24,000 – $36,000 |
Juris Doctor (JD) – Law School | 3 years | ~$37,000 |
PhD in Clinical Psychology | 4-6 years | ~$12,768 – $15,000 |
Cost of Studying at the University of South Dakota
International students seeking admission to the University of South Dakota will have to incur 24,000 USD to 25,000 USD, depending on the program they are applying to. Here is the cost breakdown:
Expense | Undergraduate (30 credits per year) | Graduate (18 credits per year) |
Tuition & Fees | $13,299 | $13,127 |
Living Expenses | $9,288 | $10,000 |
Other (books, insurance, discipline fees, etc.) | $2,000 | $2,000 |
Total | $24,587 | $25,127 |
University of South Dakota Scholarships
The University of South Dakota offers various scholarships and financial aid opportunities for international students at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Specific scholarship availability and amounts can change, so always refer to the official USD website for the most up-to-date information.
Here’s a table outlining some of the scholarships for international students at USD:
Scholarship Name | Eligibility | Scholarship Amount (Approx. per year) |
Undergraduate Scholarships | ||
Coyote Beginnings Scholarship | Automatically awarded to first-time freshman applicants based on high school GPA. No separate application needed. | Up to $4,000 (based on GPA) |
Coyote Beginnings Grant | Automatically awarded to first-time freshmen with qualifying SAT/ACT scores. Can be stacked with the Coyote Beginnings Scholarship. | $1,500 – $2,500 (based on test scores) |
International Transfer Scholarship | For international transfer students from U.S. institutions with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. Automatically awarded upon admission. | $3,000 |
Global Community Scholarship | Demonstrates commitment to global engagement and community involvement. (Details may vary, check USD International Admissions for specific criteria). | $2,000 |
Presidential Alumni Scholarship | High academic achievement. (Specific criteria usually competitive, check USD for details). | $9,000 |
Graduate Scholarships | ||
Graduate Assistantship (GA) | Awarded based on academic merit and departmental teaching, research, or administrative support needs. Highly competitive. Requires active enrollment in a graduate program and maintaining a good GPA (e.g., 3.0). | Tuition reduction (often 100% of base tuition) + monthly stipend |
External Scholarships | Various scholarships offered by external organizations (e.g., private foundations, home country governments). Eligibility and amounts vary widely. | Varies, often $2,000 – $10,000+ |
Graduate International Student Waivers | Awarded to graduate students not on an assistantship, often for recipients of external awards like Fulbright or World Learning scholars. Also for specific MOUs with international universities. Eligibility by Graduate School. | Varies (e.g., 100% waiver for Fulbright, 30% for World Learning) |
University of South Dakota Admissions
The University of South Dakota has a relatively high acceptance rate, making it accessible to many prospective students. For international applicants, the general requirements include submitting official transcripts from all previously attended educational institutions, demonstrating English language proficiency through standardized tests like TOEFL, IELTS, and PTE. The following section will discuss the admission requirements and top programs at the University of South Dakota.
Masters
Admission Requirements:
International students must hold a bachelor’s degree (or higher). Applicants should have a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
English Language Proficiency Test Requirements:
- Duolingo: 110
- TOEFL iBT: 79
- PTE: 53
- IELTS: 6.0
Additional Requirements:
International students must submit a statement of purpose, two to three letters of recommendation, a resume, and official transcripts.
Bachelors
Admission Requirements:
International students require a higher secondary or equivalent degree with a minimum GPA of 2.6 (4.0 scale) in all high school courses.
English Language Proficiency Test Requirements:
- Duolingo: 105
- TOEFL iBT: 71
- PTE: 48
- IELTS: 6.0
Additional Requirements:
International students will have to submit official transcripts and a financial statement.
Accommodation at the University of South Dakota
USD provides a variety of accommodation options for its students, primarily divided into on-campus residence halls and off-campus housing.
- On-Campus Housing: USD strongly encourages and often requires first- and second-year students to live on campus. The university offers a range of modern residence halls designed to provide a supportive and engaging living environment. On-campus housing typically includes laundry facilities, study lounges, convenient access to academic buildings, dining facilities, and other campus resources. Meal plans are usually a required component of on-campus living.
- Off-Campus Housing: There are various rental options in Vermillion for students who prefer to live off-campus, particularly upper-class and graduate students. These include apartments, houses, and shared housing arrangements. Students can find listings through local real estate agencies or online rental platforms. While off-campus living offers more independence and flexibility, students are responsible for managing their rent, utilities, and other living expenses.
Student Essential Services
At the University of South Dakota, student life is called “Yote Life” and is all about getting involved and growing. Here’s a quick look:
- Clubs Galore: Over 200 student groups cover everything from academics and hobbies to cultural interests and community service.
- Sports Excitement: USD’s Division I sports teams (the Coyotes) create a lot of school spirit, with many chances to watch games or play intramural sports.
- Fun Events: The campus is always buzzing with concerts, speakers, performances, and traditions like Dakota Days (Homecoming) and Wacipi (a Native American cultural celebration).
- Fraternities & Sororities: Many students join Greek life for leadership, community service, and social connections.
- Awesome Gym: The Wellness Center and Natatorium have top-notch facilities for working out, swimming, and even an obstacle course.
- Helpful Support: USD offers great services, such as advising, tutoring, counseling, and career help, to ensure students do well.
- Give Back: Students can also get involved in community service and apply what they learn in class to help others.
Location of University of South Dakota
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main intake periods for the University of South Dakota?
The University of South Dakota primarily has two main intakes: the Fall Intake (classes start in August) and the Spring Intake (classes begin in January). Some programs may also offer a Summer Intake (classes begin in May).
What are the English proficiency requirements for the University of South Dakota?
For undergraduate admissions, the University of South Dakota generally requires a TOEFL iBT score of 71 or higher, an IELTS Academic score of 6.0 or higher, a Duolingo English Test score of 105 or higher, or a PTE Academic score of 48 or higher. The requirements for graduate admissions are slightly higher: TOEFL iBT 79+, IELTS Academic 6.0+, Duolingo English Test 110+, or PTE Academic 53+.
What are the application deadlines for international students at the University of South Dakota?
For undergraduate programs, the application deadline for Fall intake is around June 1, and for Spring intake, it’s around October 15. For graduate programs, the Fall intake deadline is around May 1, and the Spring intake deadline is around October 1.
Are first-year international students required to live on campus at USD?
Yes, the University of South Dakota typically requires first and second-year students, including international students, to live on campus.
What is the student-faculty ratio at the University of South Dakota?
The University of South Dakota boasts a student-faculty ratio of 15:1, indicating a commitment to personalized learning and access to faculty.
How many international students are currently enrolled at the University of South Dakota?
As of recent data, the University of South Dakota enrolls over 600 international students from more than 37 countries, representing approximately 6-7% of the total student population.
