How to Get Into South Dakota School of Mines and Technology

Complete admissions guide with requirements, stats, and insider tips

Rapid City, SD Public Less Competitive

Admissions Overview

South Dakota School of Mines and Technology is a public university located in Rapid City, SD. With an acceptance rate of 86.1%, it is considered less competitive.

South Dakota School of Mines and Technology is a public university located in Rapid City, SD. It is a small institution with approximately 2,194 undergraduate students. The university is accessible with an acceptance rate of 86.1%. The average SAT score is 1183. Annual tuition for out-of-state stude...

86.1%
Acceptance Rate
2.2K
Students
1183
Avg SAT
3.35
Avg GPA

Acceptance Rate & Statistics

Competitiveness

Acceptance Rate 86.1%
Open admissions - most qualified applicants accepted
Classification
Less Competitive
Student Population
2,194
Retention Rate
78.9%
Graduation Rate
45.7%

Academic Profile of Admitted Students

SAT Scores 1183
Middle 50%: 1060–1290
ACT Scores 26
Middle 50%: 24–28
GPA 3.35
Average unweighted GPA

Application Requirements

Required Materials

  • Common Application or School Application

    Complete the application with personal information and essays

  • High School Transcript

    Official transcripts showing all coursework and grades

  • Standardized Test Scores

    SAT or ACT scores (check if test-optional for recent years)

  • Letters of Recommendation

    Usually 2-3 letters from teachers, counselors, or mentors

  • Personal Essays

    Application essays and supplemental questions

Additional Considerations

  • Application Deadlines

    Early Decision/Action typically November 1-15, Regular Decision January 1-15

  • Application Fee

    Most universities charge $50-100 application fee (fee waivers available)

  • Processing Time

    Decisions typically released in March-April for fall admission

  • International Students

    May require TOEFL/IELTS scores and additional documentation

Tips for Getting Into South Dakota School of Mines and Technology

Academic Excellence

  • • Aim for SAT scores above 1183 (current average)
  • • Maintain a GPA of 3.35+ to be competitive
  • • Take challenging coursework (AP, IB, honors courses)
  • • Show consistent academic improvement over time
  • • Excel in your intended major's prerequisite courses

Stand Out from the Crowd

  • • Develop unique extracurricular activities and leadership roles
  • • Write compelling essays that showcase your personality
  • • Demonstrate genuine interest in the university and program
  • • Get strong letters of recommendation from teachers who know you well
  • • Consider applying Early Decision/Action if the school is your top choice

Pro Tip for South Dakota School of Mines and Technology

South Dakota School of Mines and Technology has a 86.1% acceptance rate. Focus on meeting their academic standards and demonstrating fit with their programs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the acceptance rate at South Dakota School of Mines and Technology?

South Dakota School of Mines and Technology has an acceptance rate of 86.1%, making it less competitive.

What SAT score do I need for South Dakota School of Mines and Technology?

The average SAT score at South Dakota School of Mines and Technology is 1183. The middle 50% range is 1060-1290. Aim for scores above the average to be competitive.

How much does it cost to attend South Dakota School of Mines and Technology?

Tuition at South Dakota School of Mines and Technology is $10,040 for in-state studentsand $12,870 for international students. Additional costs include room and board, books, and personal expenses.

What GPA do I need for South Dakota School of Mines and Technology?

The average GPA of admitted students at South Dakota School of Mines and Technology is 3.35. A competitive GPA would be above this average, typically 3.6+ to improve your chances.

When is the application deadline for South Dakota School of Mines and Technology?

Application deadlines for South Dakota School of Mines and Technology vary by program and application type. Early Decision/Action deadlines are typically November 1-15, while Regular Decision deadlines are usually January 1-15. Check the official admissions website for specific dates.

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