South Dakota Advantage Program

Explore This Section
Admissions Explore Majors and Careers Visit Apply Now Info Request Paying for College
Explore This Section
Admissions Explore Majors and Careers Visit Apply Now Info Request Paying for College
In-State Tuition for Neighboring States

Students in Minnesota and other neighboring states are eligible for in-state tuition at South Dakota State University through the South Dakota Advantage Program. Through this initiative, all Minnesota undergraduate students who are new first-time or transfer students will receive the equivalent of the in-state tuition rate at SDSU.

With the previous South Dakota-Minnesota reciprocity agreement phasing out, the South Dakota Board of Regents wanted to continue offering cost-effective educational opportunities to its Minnesota neighbors. This brought them to extend the South Dakota Advantage Program benefits, already in effect for many neighboring states, to Minnesota students. South Dakota is committed to continuing to provide high-caliber education and impactful experiences at an affordable cost.

The South Dakota Advantage Program is the best value for Minnesota students as SDSU’s tuition is more affordable than most Minnesota state schools. In fact, it offers an even better value for students than the previous reciprocity program. Read the article to see the full breadth of financial benefits. 

Read Full Article

Below is a list of states eligible for the South Dakota Advantage Program: 

  • Colorado
  • Illinois
  • Iowa
  • Kansas
  • Minnesota
  • Missouri
  • Montana
  • Nebraska
  • North Dakota
  • Wisconsin
  • Wyoming
FAQs

Explore frequently asked questions for the South Dakota Advantage Program. Don’t see your question? Please contact our Office of Admissions.

What is my average savings from using the South Dakota Advantage Program?

Students will save more than $14,000 over four years with in-state tuition compared to the out-of-state rate. See the breakdown on the cost estimate. 

Is the South Dakota Advantage Program automatically applied to my tuition rate?

Yes, you qualify automatically based on your state of residence. There is no application required.

Can I still get scholarships in addition to the South Dakota Advantage Program?

Yes. The South Dakota Advantage Program is independent of any scholarship programs or awards. Visit our scholarships page for additional scholarship information.

How is the South Dakota Advantage Program better than the previous South Dakota-Minnesota Reciprocity Agreement?

It has eliminated the need for a reciprocity program for Minnesota students, as it has reduced the previous in-state reciprocity tuition rate by $1,600 each year.

Why did the previous South Dakota-Minnesota Reciprocity Agreement end?

In a continued effort to offer affordable education, South Dakota restructured the tuition initiative to offer a better value option to new Minnesota students. In doing so, the previous reciprocity agreement was dissolved for new students beginning with the summer 2024 term. Fortunately, the new offerings create higher value for Minnesota students as they can save more on tuition in South Dakota with reduced rates. 

Does the South Dakota Advantage Program apply to both first-time undergraduate and transfer students?

Yes. The South Dakota Advantage Program is granted to all NEW first-time and transfer students starting at South Dakota State University. For more specific details and qualification details, visit our cost estimate page.

Meet Some of Our Minnesota Jackrabbits

Jocelyn Tillman | Jackson, Minnesota

Jocelyn Tillman, an electrical engineering major, was introduced to campus through BEST Robotics as a middle school student. Now a Briggs Scholar at SDSU, she knows engineering isn't just a field of study; it's a pathway to building a better future. She’s aligned her studies with a desire for constant improvement and innovation through hands-on lab experiences and real-world internships with industry leaders.

Alexa Steffl | Redwood Falls, Minnesota

Alexa Steffl is an exercise science major who stays involved while setting herself up for success. From intramurals with friends to working alongside faculty as a research assistant, she's found a community that supports her and pushes her to grow. As the university's Exercise Science Club president, she's combined a passion for healthy living with a desire for leadership.

Parker Aase | Owatonna, Minnesota

Parker Aase found his perfect fit as a precision agriculture student at SDSU. Hear about his positive experiences in the new Raven Precision Agriculture Center and with supportive faculty and alumni, connecting him to valuable internships and real-world applications.

Ashlyn Meester | Ellsworth, Minnesota

Ashlyn Meester loves working with children. Through her courses and experience teaching at the Fishback Center for Early Childhood Education, she has decided to pursue teaching fourth grade after graduation. Through mentorship from professors and student-teaching opportunities, the early childhood education program at SDSU has set her up for success.

Will Werner | Redwood Falls, Minnesota 

After eight years of active duty in the U.S. Air Force, Will Werner found his passion fighting wildland fires. Looking to continue his passion, he pursued a conservation planning and park management degree at SDSU. While returning to the classroom in his thirties has been an adjustment, he says that SDSU's resources have made the transition easier.


 

Hear what our Minnesota Jacks are saying
Minnesota student interview

Minnesota Mini Mic - YouTube Shorts

What made you decide to attend SDSU?
Minnesota student interview

Minnesota Mini Mic - YouTube Shorts

What do you love about Brookings?
Minnesota student interview

Minnesota Mini Mic - YouTube Shorts

What do you tell fellow Minnesotans about coming to SDSU?
Minnesota student interview

Minnesota Mini Mic - YouTube Shorts

Why do you love SDSU?