Your step-by-step college application guide

Everyone has their own goals for the future, and preparing to take on those goals requires a unique journey.

There are a few key steps to keep in mind through the college application process, but it’s never too late to get started on your path to South Dakota State University.

How do you get ready for the four years that will change your life?

Check on academic requirements

• For admission to SDSU, you’ll need to meet one of the following:

  • Cumulative GPA of 2.6 on a 4.0 scale

  • Ranking in the top 60% of your high school class

  • 18 ACT or 970 SAT score

  • Level 3 or higher on Math and English Language Arts Smarter

• You’ll also need a “C” average or better in the required high school courses

Explore majors and minors

• 200+ potential academic pathways

• Room to explore

  • Many students change their major at least once, so don’t feel too much pressure initially.

  • SDSU even offers an exploratory studies program for students who are undecided.

Schedule a visit

Whether you visit before or after you apply, coming to campus is a great way to get a feel for life as a Jackrabbit.

• What types of visits are available?

  • Daily campus visits Monday–Friday

  • Jackrabbit Preview group programs on Fridays

  • Saturday options like Junior Day, Senior Day, and Yellow & Blue Discovery Day

  • Specialized programs like Honors Visit Day

• What does a visit include?

  • Time with Admissions staff

  • A tour of our beautiful campus and residence hall with a student ambassador

  • Conversations with supportive academic department representatives

Schedule your visit.

Apply!

• Here’s what you’ll do:

  • Fill out your application at SDState.edu/admissions/apply-now

  • Apply during College Access months (October & November) to apply without a fee

• Here’s what we’ll need:

  • Your high school transcript with courses completed through the end of your junior year

• You can also give us:

  • Your postsecondary transcripts if you’ve enrolled in dual-credit courses outside of those offered by South Dakota public universities

  • Your ACT or SAT scores, if you have them

• ACT code: 3924

• SAT score: 6653

Research and apply for financial aid

96% of first-time, full-time students receive financial aid.

• Keep an eye out for FAFSA announcements prior to December 31

• Apply for scholarships

  • Scholarship awarding starts in the fall and continues through March

  • Priority date: December 1

Apply for scholarships

Get ready for Jackrabbit life.

Yellow and blue will look great on you.

Learn more about how to apply at sdstate.edu/apply