Dakota State University students walking around campus

Preparation + opportunity = success

That's the DSU equation. We're a four-year university with nationally recognized programs, cutting-edge facilities, and the brightest thinkers. But we're also a tight-knit, inclusive community. Small class sizes mean hands-on training and individualized attention. All this with an affordable, public school price that's among the best values in the region.

Majors & Degrees

How to Apply

We strive to make the application process as simple as possible but if at any point you find the process confusing or have questions, we’d be more than happy to walk you through it.

Admission deadlines

Don’t forget these important admission application dates. Please note: All deadlines are by 11:59 pm in the time zone from which you are submitting the application.

  • Fall semester (classes beginning in August): application deadline June 15
  • Spring semester (classes beginning in January): application deadline November 15

Application process

Here’s what you need to do to apply as an international undergraduate student:

  •  Complete the online application
  • Mail to DSU the following pieces of documentation:
    • All official academic transcripts, certificates, diplomas, in English (including secondary and post-secondary)
  • Email to DSU the following pieces of documentation:
    • All ECE reports for any post-secondary coursework completed outside the US
    • Your official proof of English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, PTE Academic, or ACT/SAT sub-scores)
    • Your Certificate of Financial Responsibility (PDF) and bank statements (Please note that federal government regulations require potential students to provide evidence that they have the ability to cover expenses for one academic year)
    • A copy of your current visa and I-20, if you’re presently in the US
  • Send us your official SAT or ACT score report, if applicable*
  • Pay your application fee of $20 (payable by credit card or bank check made to Dakota State University)

All documents should be mailed to:

International Programs Office
Dakota State University
820 N. Washington Avenue - Learning Engagement Center
Madison, SD 57042 USA

To avoid any admission delays, please send all of your documents at once. Finally, please note that, on admission, proof of two MMR immunizations must be received before your I-20 will be mailed.

* ACT and SAT scores are not required for admission but are required for many of our institutional scholarships.