Yote Year

To be eligible, applicants must have graduated (or will graduate) from the equivalent of an American high school within one year of the fall start term.

Academic Admission Requirements (Meet at least one)

• High School GPA: ≥ 2.6 on a U.S. 4.0 scale (or equivalent)
• ACT Composite: 21+
• SAT Overall: 1070+

English Proficiency Requirements (Meet at least one)

*Current academic year costs. Tuition rates are typically set by the South Dakota Board of Regents in May of each year. Students enrolled in select disciplines subject to additional fees. For detailed information on tuition and fees, visit usd.edu/tuition. Your cost of attendance may also include delivery fees and program-specific fees.

Yote Year students are eligible for the same tuition scholarships as degree-seeking students:

• Coyote Beginnings Scholarship: Automatically awarded upon admission; valued at up to $4,000 per year based on high school GPA.
• Coyote Beginnings Grant: Automatically awarded for qualifying SAT or ACT scores; valued between $1,500 and $2,500 per year. This award can be stacked on top of the Coyote Beginnings Scholarship.
• Continuing Aid: Students who transition into a degree-seeking program at USD will retain their awarded scholarships, provided they maintain the required GPA.

Through the Gallagher International Center, Yote Year participants receive comprehensive assistance tailored to international students:

• Airport transfers upon arrival
• Visa compliance and advising
• Organized regional trips to iconic destinations like the scenic Black Hills in South Dakota
• A dedicated academic advisor to assist with course selection and career planning