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Augustana University

Accept Rate
59.25%
Grad Rate
75.6%
Enrollment
1,818
Avg SAT
1187
Tuition
$39,190
Median Salary
$59,217
Overall Grade
C
B
Academics
C
Value
C
Admissions
C
Diversity
C+
Campus
C
Aid

The Vibe Check

Augustana University offers a close-knit, supportive community where students feel known and valued, fostering a strong sense of belonging. The campus has an energetic yet grounded atmosphere, blending rigorous academics with a vibrant social scene centered on tradition and school spirit.

Admissions

Acceptance Rate

59.25%
Moderately Selective

SAT Score Range

25th Pctlavg 118775th Pctl
10751290
40080012001600

ACT Score Range

25th Pctlavg 2575th Pctl
2127
1122436

Admissions Tips

Highlight your involvement in healthcare, biology, or education-related activities, as these are signature strengths at Augustana. Emphasize your commitment to community service and leadership, which aligns with the university's values. Aim for an SAT score around 1187 or higher, but know that holistic factors like essays and recommendations are also heavily considered.

Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard

๐ŸŽฏ

Can I Get In?

Estimate your admission chances

3.5
1.02.03.04.0
1187
40080012001600
School range: 1075โ€“1290

โš ๏ธ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.

Academics & Majors

Augustana is recognized for strong programs in health professions, biology, and education, supported by a dedicated faculty focused on undergraduate teaching. Students benefit from hands-on research opportunities and personalized academic advising that prepares them for graduate school and professional success.

Popular Majors

Health Professions
21%
Biology & Biomedical
15.8%
Business & Marketing
15%
Social Sciences
7.1%
Education
6%
Parks, Recreation & Fitness
6%
Psychology
5.5%
Computer Science
3.7%
Mathematics & Statistics
3.1%
English & Literature
2.9%
Physical Sciences
2.9%
Visual & Performing Arts
1.6%

Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education

By The Numbers

75.6%
Graduation Rate
83.5%
Retention Rate
1,818
Total Students

Return on Investment

Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)

Student Diversity

Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body

Financial Aid & Cost

Sticker Price
$39,190
In-state tuition/year
Avg Net Price
$24,723
After financial aid
Total Cost
$53,169
Cost of attendance/year
16%
Receive Pell Grants
51.8%
Federal Loan Rate

Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education

Life in Sioux Falls

Sioux Falls offers a mix of urban amenities and natural beauty, with students enjoying Falls Park, local concerts, and a growing food scene. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore nearby trails and parks, while downtown provides shopping, entertainment, and cultural events just minutes from campus.

Local Rent Check

$884 / month
Avg 1-Bedroom in Sioux Falls
Explore Sioux Falls

Reality Check

Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).

$156,760
$0Est. 4 Years: $156,760

Post-Grad Monthly Payment

$0/mo

Impact on Est. Salary ($59,217):

0.0% of net income

Safe Zone

Safety Check

Augustana's campus is located in a safe, residential neighborhood of Sioux Falls, with low crime rates and a supportive community. The university provides 24/7 campus security and encourages a culture of awareness and personal responsibility.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • โœ“ Strong health sciences and biology programs with hands-on clinical and research opportunities
  • โœ“ High retention and graduation rates indicating student satisfaction and support
  • โœ“ Safe, friendly campus environment in a growing city with affordable living
  • โœ“ Personalized attention from faculty and small class sizes

Cons

  • โœ— Tuition is relatively high compared to public institutions
  • โœ— Limited diversity compared to larger urban universities
  • โœ— Fewer graduate programs may require transferring for advanced degrees

Notable Alumni

Tom Brokaw
Legendary NBC News anchor and journalist
Paul G. Kirk
Former U.S. Senator from Massachusetts and Democratic Party leader
John D. Rockefeller IV
Former U.S. Senator from West Virginia

Frequently Asked Questions

Augustana is known for its strong programs in health professions, biology, education, and business, as well as its commitment to undergraduate teaching and hands-on learning. The university emphasizes a liberal arts foundation combined with professional preparation, fostering a close-knit community and active student engagement.

Augustana has an acceptance rate of about 59%, making it moderately selective. The average SAT score is 1187, and successful applicants typically demonstrate strong academic performance, leadership, and community involvement. The admissions process is holistic, considering essays, recommendations, and extracurriculars.

Campus life at Augustana is vibrant and community-focused, with numerous clubs, athletic events, and traditions that foster school spirit. Students enjoy a supportive environment with easy access to Sioux Falls' amenities, including parks, dining, and entertainment, while maintaining a close connection with faculty and peers.

With an average net price of $24,723 and a 10-year median earnings of $59,217, Augustana offers a solid return on investment, especially in high-demand fields like health sciences and education. The high graduation and retention rates suggest strong student outcomes, making it a valuable investment for many. Financial aid options help make it more accessible.

Similar Universities

Top Employers

Sanford Health Avera Health Sioux Falls School District Citi Great Western Bank
Smart Start Score
68

Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.

University Facts

  • Founded N/A
  • Type Private
  • Setting Urban
  • Undergrad 2,147
  • In-State Tuition $39,190
  • Zip Code 57197

Gender Ratio

โ™‚ 38.7% โ™€ 61.3%

The Money Talk

With an average net price of $24,723 and a 10-year median earnings of $59,217, Augustana provides solid ROI for a private liberal arts education. The relatively high graduation and retention rates suggest strong student satisfaction and successful outcomes, making it a worthwhile investment for many. Financial aid and scholarships can further reduce costs for eligible students.

*Based on Dept of Education data

โš–๏ธ Compare Schools

See how this school stacks up

Compare with Texas Wesleyan University

๐Ÿ“ Campus Location

๐Ÿ“… Typical Deadlines

Early Decision Nov 1
Early Action Nov 1โ€“15
Regular Decision Jan 1โ€“15
Transfer Mar 15
FAFSA Opens Oct 1
Check official deadlines โ†’

Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.

๐Ÿงฎ Estimated Annual Budget

Tuition $39,190
Housing (12 mo) $10,608
Books & Supplies ~$1,200
Living Expenses ~$6,000
Estimated Total $56,998
With avg financial aid:
$24,723/yr
Data sourced from US Dept of Education College Scorecard, IPEDS, and Bureau of Labor Statistics. Last updated: Feb 2026.