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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.

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Is DSU the right fit for you?

Even the best brochures and postcards (and yes, even websites) can only tell you so much about a college. The only surefire way to know if DSU is right for you is to see for yourself.

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Home ― Admissions ― Graduate Admissions ― How to Apply

How to Apply

The best time is now

Apply to DSU 

  1. Review the specific admission requirements for your desired program on the Requirements and Timelines page that is linked from the program's page. Navigate to your program page from the graduate programs listing.
  2. Start your online application.
    • Submit your application with a $35 application fee.
    • After submitting your online application, you can log into your application portal to submit any remaining application documents and check the status of your application.
  3. Request your official transcripts be sent to Dakota State University by email or mail:

    Dakota State University Graduate Studies Admissions
    820 N Washington Avenue
    Madison, SD 57042-1799

    By parchment or e-transcript to: DSU-GraduateAdmissions@dsu.edu
  4. After submitting all of your application documents in your portal, you can refer back to the portal to check your application status: apply.dsu.edu/apply.

    Depending on the program, admission decisions may take up to several weeks after submitting all application materials or after the application deadline. 

GRE/GMAT scores are not required for admission.  

APPLY FOR A GRADUATE DEGREE

You can apply for most M.S. graduate programs for the spring, summer, and fall semesters except our M.S. in Information Systems, which only offers spring and fall semester starts.Most Ph.D. programs accepts students for fall entry only.

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Explore more information about international student admissions and other opportunities. 

International students

If you are an international student, begin by filling out an application to the program you wish to enter. You will also submit a Certificate of Financial Responsibility in order to receive an I-20 form, which is required to apply for an F-1 Student Visa.

International graduate student admissions

Non-degree-seeking students

If you're a non-degree-seeking student, there is no cost to apply.

Apply as a non-degree student

4+1 program students

If you're an undergraduate student with plans to complete a BS and MS, you can earn both in five years. For more information, please see our 4+1 page or the DSU online catalog.

Graduate Assistantships

Competitive graduate assistantships are available for eligible programs and for full-time, on-campus students. 

Learn more about assistantships 

Explore Graduate Programs

Graduate Program Guidelines

Graduate Program Governance