Head-to-head · 2026
South Dakota State University vs University of Sioux Falls
Side-by-side ROI breakdown. 3 wins for South Dakota State University, 3 for University of Sioux Falls — even split.
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 | South Dakota State University | University of Sioux Falls |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 6.94 ✓ | 6.37 |
| Avg net price | $19,841 ✓ | $21,383 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $55,070 ✓ | $54,521 |
| Acceptance rate | 98.3% | 82.9% ✓ |
| Graduation rate | 62.4% | 62.9% ✓ |
| Median debt | $23,250 | $23,249 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 9,198 | 1,218 |
| Ownership | Public | Private Non-Profit |
| Avg SAT | 1120 | — |
| Wins | 3 | 3 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
University of Sioux Falls costs $1,542 more per year than South Dakota State University ($21,383 vs $19,841). South Dakota State University graduates report $549 higher median earnings after ten years ($55,070 vs $54,521). On EduGradify's model that puts South Dakota State University ahead on projected ROI (6.94 vs 6.37, 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, South Dakota State University is accessible at 98.3% acceptance versus 82.9% (accessible) at University of Sioux Falls.
Frequently asked
South Dakota State University vs University of Sioux Falls, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is South Dakota State University or University of Sioux Falls the better value?
South Dakota State University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (6.94 vs 6.37), 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 $21,383 at University of Sioux Falls. The annual difference of $1,542 adds up to about $6,168 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
South Dakota State University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $55,070 vs $54,521 at University of Sioux Falls. The annual gap in the federal data is $549.
Which school is harder to get into?
University of Sioux Falls is more selective at 82.9% 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. South Dakota State University reports a C value grade; University of Sioux Falls reports C.