Head-to-head · 2026
Dakota State University vs South Dakota State University
Compare average net price ($21,057 at Dakota State University; $19,841 at South Dakota State University), ROI score (6.05 vs 6.94), ten-year median earnings ($50,970 vs $55,070), and admissions selectivity (88.1% acceptance at Dakota State University; 98.3% at South Dakota State University) using federal College Scorecard data. South Dakota State University has a 5-2 metric-level edge. South Dakota State University has the stronger ROI signal here, though the final choice should still account for aid, major and campus fit.
Face to face
Metric-by-metric comparison
9 metrics, side by side. A colored cell marks a metric-level advantage. Green = lower-is-better, violet = higher-is-better.
| Metric | Dakota State University | South Dakota State University |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 6.05 | 6.94 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $21,057 | $19,841 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $50,970 | $55,070 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 88.1% ✓ | 98.3% |
| Graduation rate | 51.3% | 62.4% ✓ |
| Median debt | $23,500 | $23,250 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 2,071 | 9,198 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1215 ✓ | 1120 |
| Metric advantages | 2 | 5 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Dakota State University costs $1,216 more per year than South Dakota State University ($21,057 vs $19,841). South Dakota State University graduates report $4,100 higher median earnings after ten years ($55,070 vs $50,970). On EduGradify's model that puts South Dakota State University ahead on projected ROI (6.94 vs 6.05, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (South Dakota State University) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Dakota State University is accessible at 88.1% acceptance versus 98.3% (accessible) at South Dakota State University.
Frequently asked
Dakota State University vs South Dakota State University, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Dakota State University or South Dakota State University the better value?
South Dakota State University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (6.94 vs 6.05), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
South Dakota State University is cheaper — average net price $19,841 per year vs $21,057 at Dakota State University. The annual difference of $1,216 adds up to about $4,864 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
South Dakota State University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $55,070 vs $50,970 at Dakota State University. The annual gap in the federal data is $4,100.
Which school is harder to get into?
Dakota State University is more selective at 88.1% acceptance vs 98.3% at South Dakota State University.
What should I compare beyond ROI?
Use the ROI score as a value screen, then compare aid letters, program fit, graduation rate, location, campus size, and debt. Dakota State University reports a C value grade; South Dakota State University reports C.