For the 2025 school year, there are 92 private schools serving 14,853 students in South Dakota (there are 734 public schools, serving 146,041 students). 9% of all K-12 students in South Dakota attend private schools (compared to the national average of 10%).
The average private school tuition is $6,485 for elementary schools and $7,804 for high schools (view national tuition averages).
The top-ranked private schools in South Dakota include O'Gorman Junior High School, O'gorman High School, and Our Lady Of Lourdes Elementary School.
The average acceptance rate is 79% (view national acceptance rates). Minority enrollment is 22% and the student:teacher ratio is 12:1.
Top Ranked South Dakota Private Schools by County (2025)
Popular neighborhoods: Emerson (1 schools).
County
# Schools
# Students
% of K-12 Students in Private Schools
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top ranked private schools in South Dakota?
The top-ranked private schools in South Dakota include O'Gorman Junior High School, O'gorman High School, and Our Lady Of Lourdes Elementary School.
How many private schools are located in South Dakota?
There are 92 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 $6,485 for elementary schools and $7,804 for high schools
How diverse are private schools in South Dakota?
Approximately 22% of students in South Dakota private schools are minority students (compared to the national percentage).
What percentage of students in South Dakota go to private school?
9% of all K-12 students in South Dakota attend private schools (compared to the national average of 10%).
What percentage of private schools are religiously affiliated in South Dakota?
Which private schools in South Dakota are often viewed compared to one another?
Popular comparisons of private schools in South Dakota include: O'gorman High School vs. Sioux Falls Christian Schools, Abiding Savior Academy and Preschool vs. Sioux Falls Lutheran School, St. Thomas More High School vs. Rapid City Christian School
Recent Articles
Podcasts That Will Change the Way You Think About Education
This article highlights a curated selection of podcasts that offer thought-provoking discussions, expert insights, and innovative ideas on various aspects of education. From exploring new teaching methods and technologies to discussing policy changes and social issues, these podcasts provide a wealth of knowledge and inspiration for anyone interested in education. Each podcast is briefly described, highlighting its unique focus and tone.
For-profit vs. Not-for-profit Schools
This comprehensive guide explores the differences between for-profit and not-for-profit private schools, discussing their organizational structures, advantages, and key considerations for parents. It emphasizes that a school's success is determined by its educational quality and management rather than its profit status.
2023-24 Best SSAT Prep Courses Reviewed
This article reviews the top SSAT prep courses, including Test Innovators, Enrollment Management Association (EMA), Princeton Review, Ivy Global, and Kaplan. Each course is evaluated based on its price, in-person and online services, officially licensed materials, instant normative scoring, and free trial options. We'll dive into the features and benefits of each course, helping you understand which one best fits your student's needs and learning style.
