Verified data from IPEDS & College Scorecard

Northern State University vs University of South Dakota

Aberdeen, SD · Vermillion, SD · Source: IPEDS federal database

Northern State UniversityUniversity of South Dakota
Acceptance Rate92.8%99.0%
In-State Tuition$8,845$9,432
Out-of-State Tuition$11,947$12,942
Average Net Price$16,873$18,466
Graduation Rate52.0%61.0%

GradFax Analysis

Northern State University accepts 92.8% of applicants. University of South Dakota accepts 99.0%. Tuition is close: $8,845 at Northern State University, $9,432 at University of South Dakota. Northern State University graduates 52% of students in 6 years. University of South Dakota graduates 61%.

Bottom Line

Both are solid options. Get the actual aid estimates from each school and compare them side by side. The averages above won't tell your specific story.

Source: IPEDS — Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System

Full interactive comparison →Northern State University profileUniversity of South Dakota profile

Common Questions

Which is harder to get into, Northern State University or University of South Dakota?

Northern State University. It accepts 92.8% of applicants, per IPEDS data.

Source: IPEDS

Is Northern State University or University of South Dakota more affordable?

Northern State University, on average. After aid, students pay $16,873/year versus $18,466/year. Your number depends on your aid package.

Source: IPEDS

Which has a better graduation rate?

University of South Dakota: 61% of students finish in 6 years. Northern State University is at 52%.

Source: IPEDS

Data from IPEDS (Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System), a federal database maintained by the U.S. Department of Education. Figures represent the most recent available academic year.

Northern State University vs University of South Dakota: Acceptance Rate, Tuition & Outcomes (2026) | GradFax