In 2025, the average tuition and fees at 11 four-year South Dakota colleges is $18,132, reflecting a 2.07% increase compared to the previous year.
Augustana University ranks as the most expensive South Dakota colleges, with tuition and fees reaching $40,160. Known for its prestigious academic programs and strong reputation, Augustana University remains a top choice for students seeking a premium education experience.
Close behind are Mount Marty University at$34,600 and Dakota Wesleyan University at$33,790 both consistently recognized among the South Dakota 4-Years Colleges with the Highest Tuition & Fees, offering high-quality academic programs and resources.
At these High-Cost South Dakota 4-Years Colleges, the average acceptance rate is 78.95%, and the average SAT score is 1,228, making them not only cost-effective but also accessible options for a wide range of students.
| School Name | Undergraduate Tuition & Fees | Graduate Tuition & Fees | Acceptance Rate | Total Population | SAT Score | Graduation Rate | Students to Faculty Ratio | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 - | Augustana University Sioux Falls, SDPrivate, 4-year | $40,160 $970 | $40,830 $990 | 67.75% | 2,390 | 1,255 | 73.00% | 12 to 1 |
| 2 - | Mount Marty University Yankton, SDPrivate, 4-year | $34,600 $1,500 | $16,499 $2,235 | 42.57% | 1,284 | - | 52.00% | 12 to 1 |
| 3 - | Dakota Wesleyan University Mitchell, SDPrivate, 4-year | $33,790 $900 | $15,300 - | 73.38% | 892 | - | 48.00% | 12 to 1 |
| 4 - | University of Sioux Falls Sioux Falls, SDPrivate, 4-year | $21,750 $1,010 | $7,470 $135 | 82.89% | 1,450 | - | 63.00% | 18 to 1 |
| 5 - | National American University-Rapid City Rapid City, SDPrivate, 4-year | $16,065 - | $16,425 - | - | 903 | - | 60.00% | 6 to 1 |
| 6 - | South Dakota School of Mines and Technology Rapid City, SDPublic, 4-year | $14,900 ($10,500) $100 | $14,600 ($8,500) - | 79.87% | 2,576 | 1,230 | 53.00% | 12 to 1 |
| 7 5 | Institute of Lutheran Theology Brookings, SDPrivate, 4-year | $13,430 $2,870 | $9,100 $390 | - | - | - | - | - |
| 8 1 | University of South Dakota Vermillion, SDPublic, 4-year | $12,942 ($9,432) - | $12,768 ($7,118) - | 98.78% | 10,619 | 1,205 | 60.00% | 16 to 1 |
| 9 1 | South Dakota State University Brookings, SDPublic, 4-year | $12,809 ($9,299) - | $16,917 ($9,384) - | 98.34% | 12,056 | 1,130 | 62.00% | 17 to 1 |
| 10 1 | Dakota State University Madison, SDPublic, 4-year | $12,756 ($9,654) $21 | $11,931 ($6,731) - | 88.05% | 3,774 | 1,320 | 51.00% | 18 to 1 |
| Average | $21,320 ($9,721) | $16,184 ($7,933) | 78.95% | 3,994 | 1,228 | 58.00% | 14 to 1 |