Head-to-head · 2026
South Dakota State University vs University of South Dakota
Side-by-side ROI breakdown. 6 wins for South Dakota State University, 1 for University of South Dakota — South Dakota State University 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 | South Dakota State University | University of South Dakota |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 6.94 ✓ | 6.54 |
| Avg net price | $19,841 ✓ | $19,858 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $55,070 ✓ | $51,926 |
| Acceptance rate | 98.3% ✓ | 98.8% |
| Graduation rate | 62.4% ✓ | 59.9% |
| Median debt | $23,250 ✓ | $23,592 |
| Enrollment | 9,198 | 5,439 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1120 | 1125 ✓ |
| Wins | 6 | 1 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
University of South Dakota costs $17 more per year than South Dakota State University ($19,858 vs $19,841). South Dakota State University graduates report $3,144 higher median earnings after ten years ($55,070 vs $51,926). On EduGradify's model that puts South Dakota State University ahead on projected ROI (6.94 vs 6.54, 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 98.8% (accessible) at University of South Dakota.
Frequently asked
South Dakota State University vs University of South Dakota, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is South Dakota State University or University of South Dakota the better value?
South Dakota State University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (6.94 vs 6.54), 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 $19,858 at University of South Dakota. The annual difference of $17 adds up to about $68 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
South Dakota State University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $55,070 vs $51,926 at University of South Dakota. The annual gap in the federal data is $3,144.
Which school is harder to get into?
South Dakota State University is more selective at 98.3% 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. South Dakota State University reports a C value grade; University of South Dakota reports C.