Head-to-head · 2026
Dakota State University vs University of South Dakota
Side-by-side ROI breakdown. 3 wins for Dakota State University, 4 for University of South Dakota — University of South Dakota has more metric-level advantages.
Face to face
Metric-by-metric, winner flagged
9 metrics, side by side. The colored cell wins. Green = lower-is-better wins, indigo = higher-is-better wins.
| Metric | Dakota State University | University of South Dakota |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 6.05 | 6.54 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $21,057 | $19,858 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $50,970 | $51,926 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 88.1% ✓ | 98.8% |
| Graduation rate | 51.3% | 59.9% ✓ |
| Median debt | $23,500 ✓ | $23,592 |
| Enrollment | 2,071 | 5,439 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1215 ✓ | 1125 |
| Wins | 3 | 4 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Dakota State University costs $1,199 more per year than University of South Dakota ($21,057 vs $19,858). University of South Dakota graduates report $956 higher median earnings after ten years ($51,926 vs $50,970). On EduGradify's model that puts University of South Dakota ahead on projected ROI (6.54 vs 6.05, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (University of South Dakota) 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 98.8% (accessible) at University of South Dakota.
Frequently asked
Dakota State University vs University of South Dakota, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Dakota State University or University of South Dakota the better value?
University of South Dakota has the higher EduGradify ROI score (6.54 vs 6.05), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
University of South Dakota is cheaper — average net price $19,858 per year vs $21,057 at Dakota State University. The annual difference of $1,199 adds up to about $4,796 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
University of South Dakota reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $51,926 vs $50,970 at Dakota State University. The annual gap in the federal data is $956.
Which school is harder to get into?
Dakota State University is more selective at 88.1% acceptance vs 98.8% at University of South Dakota.
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; University of South Dakota reports C.