University of South Dakota
We’re South Dakota’s Flagship University. The affordable, nationally ranked, public research institution with a small-town feel. Located in Vermillion, USD offers more than 200 academic programs across a wide range of disciplines, including business, health sciences, education, law and the liberal arts. Home to a vibrant community of around 9,000 students, USD combines the personal attention of a smaller college with the opportunities of a larger research university. With more than 200 student organizations, students can get involved, build connections and grow outside the classroom. USD also offers hands-on learning, Division I athletics, modern facilities and a strong sense of community—all in a beautiful, historic campus setting.
Accepts first-year applicationsMidwestPublicRuralMedium (2,001 to 14,999)Co-Ed
Academic programs
- Design
- Research
- Science
- Technology
- Liberal Arts
- Business
- Education
- Nursing
- Communication
- Music
- Art & Design
- Economics
- Finance/Accounting
- Government/Political Science
- Health Science
- Performing Arts
- Social Science
- Visual Arts
- Psychology
- Computer Science
- Public health
Student experience
- Athletics
- Co-op/Internship Opportunities
- Disability Services
- Greek Life
- Intramural/Club Sports
- LGBTQIA Services
- Military/Veteran Services
- On-Campus Housing
- ROTC Program
- Study Abroad
- Undergraduate Research
- Veteran Fee Waiver
- Distance/online learning
Application information
First-year
- Submit your completed application for admission.
- Pay the application fee with your application to ensure timely processing, unless you qualify for a fee waiver.
- Send your ACT (Code: 3928) or SAT (Code: 6881) scores directly from the testing agency, if applicable.
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Additional information
At USD, you’re not just earning a degree – you’re gaining an enriching education that will benefit you for a lifetime. With nationally recognized academic programs, diverse out-of-class opportunities and expert instruction, your USD education provides exceptional value at one of the most affordable rates among flagship universities.
USD offers competitive tuition rates for all undergraduate students plus merit-based aid, regardless of residency. If you’re from South Dakota or a neighboring state, your education may be even more affordable. Discover more by visiting our South Dakota Advantage webpage.
Lastly, international students are eligible for merit-based financial aid through our scholarships and grants. They also benefit from the lowest non-resident tuition of any US Flagship University! Visit our international admissions page for more information.
USD offers competitive tuition rates for all undergraduate students plus merit-based aid, regardless of residency. If you’re from South Dakota or a neighboring state, your education may be even more affordable. Discover more by visiting our South Dakota Advantage webpage.
Lastly, international students are eligible for merit-based financial aid through our scholarships and grants. They also benefit from the lowest non-resident tuition of any US Flagship University! Visit our international admissions page for more information.
Visit us
We invite you to explore the vibrant community at USD. Take the opportunity to sit in on a class, join a campus tour and engage with our students and faculty. Throughout the year, we offer a variety of visit programs tailored to fit your interests. We can even customize a visit just for you! Discover what makes USD unique and envision yourself as part of our Coyote family.
To schedule your visit, go to www.usd.edu/visit
To schedule your visit, go to www.usd.edu/visit
“I chose USD because it felt like home. Out of all the universities I visited, USD had the most welcoming atmosphere and faculty who cared about me as a person.”