Accredited Online Learning in South Dakota

South Dakota High School Diploma Online

Excel High School offers South Dakota students a fully accredited online education for grades 6-12. With flexible programs designed for both high school and adult learners, our students can choose from standard, honors, and AP courses. Supported by experienced educators, students have access to live human assistance during traditional business hours and the opportunity to earn college credits while still in high school.
South Dakota Education Insights and Opportunities

South Dakota students achieve some of the highest median SAT scores in the nation. The state is home to 290 high schools, with 274 public and 16 private. While South Dakota ranks 46th in student enrollment, it offers a favorable student-to-teacher ratio, ranking 17th nationwide. The state’s high school graduation rate stands at 83.9%, slightly below the national average, but students excel in math and achieve competitive scores on the NAEP assessments.

Students are assessed through the Smarter Balanced Assessment Consortium exams and may complete a capstone project involving research, presentations, or a portfolio. Many graduates continue their education at respected state institutions, such as the University of South Dakota, South Dakota State University, and Augustana University. Excel High School helps students in cities like Pierre, Aberdeen, and Brookings, providing an accredited path to academic success and preparation for future opportunities.

Why Choose Excel High School?

  • Accredited and Recognized Programs: Transferable credits accepted by many schools, universities, and the U.S. military.
  • Earn College Credits in High School: Get a head start with dual-credit options.
  • Flexible, Self-Paced Learning: Complete coursework on your schedule.
  • Live Support During Business Hours: Access help from real educators when you need it.
  • Tailored for Online Success: Designed for digital learning from the ground up.
  • Options for All Ages: Programs for both school-age students and adult learners.

Starting is Easy

Want to learn more about earning your accredited high school diploma? Just enter your name and email below, and we’ll send you a series of helpful emails to guide you through the process.

*eligibility is determined by the state.

Your Path to a Fully Supported Online Education

Most students who qualify for state-funded tuition are automatically enrolled in our Platinum Tier Tuition Package, which offers the highest level of support at no cost to families. This all-inclusive package covers full tuition and includes both a free laptop or tablet to ensure students are equipped for success in an online learning environment.

With access to all available course options—including Standard, Honors, and Advanced Placement (AP)—students can tailor their learning to fit their goals. Enrollment also includes our top-level ElevatEd Summit program, which goes beyond academics to foster personal growth through guided enrichment in resilience, goal setting, mindset development, and future planning.

From flexible pacing to personalized enrichment, the Platinum Tier ensures every student receives a structured, supportive, and fully accredited online high school experience.

Excel High School’s Standard High School program provides a well-rounded, flexible curriculum that meets graduation requirements while allowing students to learn at their own pace

Honors courses offer a more challenging curriculum with deeper content, critical thinking opportunities, and higher academic expectations for motivated students preparing for college

AP courses provide college-level rigor, allowing students to earn potential college credit while building advanced skills in critical thinking, research, and academic writing.

Our middle school program helps students in grades 6-8 build a strong foundation in core subjects while developing essential study skills for high school success.

Accreditation You Can Trust

Recognized & Respected Nationwide

At Excel High School, we are proud to be regionally accredited by Cognia, along with additional accreditations from NCA, SACS, NWAC, and the Middle States Association. Our programs meet the same rigorous standards as public schools, giving you the confidence of earning a well-respected diploma.

Global Recognition for Our Accredited Diplomas

Excel High School’s regionally accredited diploma is accepted by colleges and universities around the world. With our recognized accreditation, you can confidently pursue higher education wherever your journey takes you.