Best South Dakota Private Schools (2024)

For the 2024 school year, there are 89 private schools serving 13,676 students in South Dakota (there are 749 public schools, serving 145,783 students). 9% of all K-12 students in South Dakota are educated in private schools (compared to the national average of 10%).
The average private school tuition is $4,103 for elementary schools and $6,071 for high schools (view national tuition averages).
The best top ranked private schools in South Dakota include Rapid City Christian School, Rapid City Seventh-day Adventist Elementary School and Acton Academy.
The average acceptance rate is 95% (view national acceptance rates). Minority enrollment is 19% and the student:teacher ratio is 13:1.
82% of schools are religiously affiliated (most commonly Catholic and Christian).

Top Ranked South Dakota Private Schools by County (2024)

County
# Schools
# Students
% of K-12 Students in Private Schools
8
1,027
16%

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top ranked private schools in South Dakota?
The best top ranked private schools in South Dakota include Rapid City Christian School, Rapid City Seventh-day Adventist Elementary School and Acton Academy.
How many private schools are located in South Dakota?
89 private schools are located in South Dakota.
How much do private schools cost in South Dakota?
The average private school tuition in South Dakota is $4,103 for elementary schools and $6,071 for high schools
How diverse are private schools in South Dakota?
South Dakota private schools are approximately 19% minority students (view national minority students).
What percentage of students in South Dakota go to private school?
9% of all K-12 students in South Dakota are educated in private schools (compared to national average of 10%).
What percentage of private schools are religiously affiliated in South Dakota?
82% of private schools in South Dakota are religiously affiliated (most commonly Catholic and Christian).

Recent Articles

Private School Search Tips
Private School Search Tips
We look at several ways you can use to search for private schools. Whether you are beginning the search process for a school for your child or just want to find out more about particular schools, we offer some tips and tricks to make searching more efficient.
Secrets to Becoming a Great School
Secrets to Becoming a Great School
Discover the essential ingredients that drive academic success and cultivate a thriving school community.
All About JROTC
All About JROTC
Explore the multifaceted advantages of Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps (JROTC) programs in private schools. Delve into how JROTC cultivates leadership, discipline, and citizenship skills among students, contributing to their holistic development and future success.