Move-in weekend 2026 starts Friday at SDSU

South Dakota State University is ready to welcome back students for move-in weekend starting Friday, Aug. 21.

New student move-in is set for 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Friday, and returning student move-in is from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday. Hundreds of Meet State volunteers from across campus will be on hand to direct traffic, welcome new arrivals, unload vehicles, haul student belongings from vehicles to halls, coordinate building and loading zones, and much more.

“We’re excited to see students returning to SDSU and the larger Brookings community ahead of the new academic year and their first day of classes Aug. 24,” said Michaela Willis, vice president for student affairs and enrollment management. “We are excited for them to experience our newly renovated Larson Commons residential dining hall along with some new dining flavors and expanded hours across all of our sites. A lot of great opportunities are ahead for our students, and we’re ready to help them have a strong start as they settle into their new home.”

A variety of events are planned throughout the weekend to welcome students back to campus.

On Friday, parents and families will enjoy a New Jacks Kickoff and Picnic north of the University Student Union, including favorite traditions like SDSU ice cream and The Pride of the Dakotas Marching Band. The Welcome Back Bash starts at 6:30 p.m. in the University Student Union with games, activities, make-and-take crafts, a movie and more.

Students on Saturday will also enjoy activities such as the New Jacks Class Photo at Dana J. Dykhouse Stadium; a Start Smart: Tech, Tips and Tools session to become familiar with SDSU’s technology and academic resources; food trucks; and a social and dance at the Miller Wellness Center.

Sunday is the day for students to attend residence hall meetings and to ring in the new academic year with SDSU leaders at University Convocation at Sylvan Green and meet and greets with their academic colleges. Later in the day, students will get their first look at the newly renovated Larson Commons with food and fun at Larson Launch.

For more information on move-in weekend at SDSU, go to the Meet State webpage.
 
Driving directions and detailed traffic routes to each of the residence halls, including impacted roadways, can be found online. Sign up for text alerts for updates on Meet State by texting MEETSTATE to 333111.