Ashford University vs University of South Dakota

San Diego, CA — Vermillion, SD

Metric
Ashford University
San Diego, CA
University of South Dakota
Vermillion, SD
Location San Diego, CA Vermillion, SD
Type Private For-Profit Public
Total Enrollment 20,152 5,439
Acceptance Rate 98.8%
SAT Average 1,125
In-State Tuition $11,960 $9,432
Out-of-State Tuition $11,960 $12,942
Avg Net Price $31,266 $19,858
Median Debt at Graduation $31,250 $23,592
4-Year Graduation Rate 9.7% 60.6%
Retention Rate 34.7% 79.3%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $33,397 $46,290
Median Earnings (10 yr) $35,404 $51,926
Loan Repayment Rate 8027600.0% 371500.0%

Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.

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Ashford University
San Diego, CA
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University of South Dakota
Vermillion, SD
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Ashford University and University of South Dakota compare?
Ashford University (San Diego, CA) has no published acceptance rate, in-state tuition of $11,960, and median 10-year earnings of $35,404. University of South Dakota (Vermillion, SD) has an acceptance rate of 98.8%, in-state tuition of $9,432, and median 10-year earnings of $51,926.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Ashford University or University of South Dakota?
University of South Dakota graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $51,926 vs $35,404. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Ashford University or University of South Dakota?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), University of South Dakota is the more affordable option at $19,858 per year versus $31,266.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
University of South Dakota has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 60.6% vs 9.7%.

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All data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. PlainCollege is not affiliated with any government agency.

Related

Source: U.S. Department of Education — College Scorecard College Scorecard institution outcomes (earnings, completion, debt) · 2025