University of South Dakota

What is the cost of studying for a year at University of South Dakota?

For 2025-26, USD's reported full-time undergraduate tuition and required fees totaled $9,432 for South Dakota residents and $13,299 for out-of-state students. Those published charges are only part of an annual college budget; housing, food, books, transportation, and personal expenses matter even when a student does not live on campus.

• South Dakota resident undergraduate tuition: $7,773; required fees: $1,659.
• Out-of-state undergraduate tuition: $11,283; required fees: $1,659.
• Reported annual room and board: $10,590.
• Reported books and supplies: $800.

Adding the listed 2024-25 tuition, fees, room and board, and books produces $20,822 for a resident or $24,332 for a nonresident. Neither amount is a complete cost-of-attendance estimate: both exclude transportation and personal expenses, and an individual's housing choice can change the total. Graduate, professional, part-time, and program-specific charges differ.

Financial aid changes what students ultimately pay. In the reported aid figures, 95% of students received some form of financial aid, while 40% had student loans; aid therefore should not be treated as synonymous with a discount. The reported average net price for students from families earning up to $48,000 was $15,942. Net price is a historical average after grant and scholarship aid for the defined group, not a personalized quote. Eligible students can seek federal grants and loans through the FAFSA and review USD scholarships and applicable state or military benefits; the current aid offer is the better basis for a family's budget.

What are the work-study opportunities at University of South Dakota?

USD students may seek part-time employment while enrolled, including campus jobs and positions relevant to their academic interests. Federal Work-Study is a need-based aid program for eligible students; an award generally provides access to paid work rather than cash automatically credited against a bill.

Students should distinguish a Work-Study position from an ordinary part-time job. Work-Study eligibility depends on financial aid rules and available funding, while other student jobs may have different hiring requirements. In either case, wages are earned as hours are worked. The financial aid office can clarify eligibility, and USD's student employment postings are the place to check openings and application instructions.

Employment can also support career exploration, but a campus job is not the same as a required internship or a verified postgraduation outcome. Students seeking career-related experience can use USD's career services for help with career planning, application materials, interviews, and searches for internships and jobs. Availability and requirements vary by position and academic program.