South Dakota State University (SDSU) is a public research university located in Brookings, South Dakota, USA. Established in 1881, it is the largest and oldest university in the state. SDSU is known for its strong emphasis on research, innovation, and hands-on learning across a wide range of disciplines, including agriculture, engineering, nursing, business, and technology.
Does South Dakota State University Accept International Students?
✅ Yes! SDSU welcomes international students from over 80 countries and offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs taught in English. The university also provides language support services and international student assistance to help students adjust to academic life in the U.S.
Intakes
SDSU offers three major intakes:
- Fall Intake (August) – Main intake, most programs available
- Spring Intake (January) – Some programs available
- Summer Intake (May/June) – Limited programs
Note: Some programs may have different deadlines, so it’s best to check the university’s website for details.
Admission Requirements
| Program Level | Academic Requirements | IELTS | TOEFL (iBT) | PTE Academic |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate | Completion of high school (with required subjects) | Overall 6.0, no band below 5.5 | Overall 71 | Overall 48 |
| Postgraduate | A bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution | Overall 6.5, no band below 6.0 | Overall 79 | Overall 53 |
Note: English language waivers may be available for students who have completed previous education in English-speaking countries.
Top Courses
📌 Undergraduate Programs
- BS in Agricultural Science
- BS in Civil Engineering
- BS in Computer Science
- BS in Business Economics
- BS in Nursing
📌 Postgraduate Programs
- MS in Data Science
- MBA (Master of Business Administration)
- MS in Electrical Engineering
- MS in Agricultural & Biosystems Engineering
- PhD in Biochemistry
Tuition Fees
| Program Level | Tuition Fee (USD) Per Year |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate | USD 12,000 – 15,000 |
| Postgraduate | USD 10,000 – 18,000 |
Note: All fees and amounts can change anytime. Please check the official SDSU website for the latest updates.
Scholarships for International Students
1. Jackrabbit Guarantee Scholarship
✅ Eligibility: Awarded to students with a high GPA (minimum 3.0 on a 4.0 scale).
💰 Amount: Up to USD 4,000 per year.
🔄 Renewable: Yes, based on maintaining academic performance.
2. International Student Scholarship
✅ Eligibility: Available for first-year international students with strong academic records.
💰 Amount: USD 2,000 – 5,000 per year.
🔄 Renewable: Yes, for up to four years.
3. Graduate Assistantships
✅ Eligibility: Available for graduate students in research or teaching roles.
💰 Amount: Includes tuition waivers + monthly stipends.
🔄 Renewable: Yes, based on academic performance.
Note: All scholarship amounts and eligibility criteria can change anytime. Visit the official SDSU scholarships page for the latest updates.
Features & Student Support
✅ Academic & Career Counseling
✅ On-Campus & Off-Campus Housing Options
✅ Internship & Co-op Programs
✅ Student Clubs & Leadership Opportunities
✅ Mental Health & Wellness Services
✅ Post-Graduation Work Opportunities (OPT & CPT Eligible)
✅ Research & Innovation Facilities
Why Choose South Dakota State University?
🏆 Ranked among the top public universities in the Midwest
📍 Affordable tuition compared to other U.S. universities
📈 Strong emphasis on research and hands-on learning
🌍 Diverse and welcoming international student community
🤝 Excellent job placement rates for graduates