Dakota State University (DSU), located in Madison, South Dakota, is known for its focus on technology and innovation. For the most recent admission cycle (Class of 2028), DSU reported an overall acceptance rate of approximately 78.9%, reflecting a moderately selective admissions process. This rate is influenced by factors such as the size of the applicant pool, which has seen steady growth in recent years due to the university's expanding reputation in cybersecurity and computer science programs. Additionally, DSU maintains a commitment to accessibility, which impacts its selectivity compared to more competitive institutions. The university publishes transparent admission statistics through its official website and the Common Data Set, providing reliable data for prospective students.
Over the past few years, Dakota State University’s acceptance rate has remained relatively stable, hovering between 75% and 80%, indicating consistent selectivity rather than increasing competitiveness. Unlike highly selective institutions, DSU does not heavily rely on early decision or action to shape its incoming class, focusing instead on holistic admissions. International student admissions may face slightly lower acceptance rates due to visa requirements and language proficiency standards. Compared to peer institutions in the region, such as South Dakota State University, DSU’s selectivity is similar, offering a balance between accessibility and academic rigor. Prospective students can find more detailed statistics on the university’s official admissions page at dsu.edu/admissions or through the Common Data Set for historical context.
