University of South Carolina Scholarships (2025–2026)
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- Tuition, housing, and what families actually pay on average
- Automatic merit tiers and who typically qualifies
- Flagship (competitive) and hidden-gem scholarships worth a look
- Honors perks and how to stack awards the smart way
📊 Admissions Snapshot
- Acceptance Rate: ~43% (CDS 2024–25; ~60,000 applicants, 25,000 admits, 7,800 enrolled)
- Middle 50% ACT: 25–31 (Honors College: 32–34)
- Middle 50% SAT: 1190–1390 (Honors College: 1410–1510)
- Average HS GPA: 4.2 (weighted) • Honors median 4.6–5.2
Sources: University of South Carolina Common Data Set 2024–25 and Office of Undergraduate Admissions. Middle 50% ranges represent enrolled freshmen; Honors College data from Class of 2028 profile.
Comparing multiple schools? Try the Scholarship Tool to search by GPA, test scores, and state →
UofSC at a Glance
Last verified: October 14, 2025
The University of South Carolina offers generous automatic and competitive scholarships that can bring out-of-state costs close to in-state levels. For top students, the McNair, Stamps, and Top Scholar programs can cover full tuition or more.
This guide explains who typically qualifies for merit awards, which competitive programs require extra applications, and how South Carolina’s state aid (HOPE, LIFE, and Palmetto Fellows) stacks with USC funding to maximize savings.
FAQ
Is this college test-optional? Yes, through Fall 2026. Test scores are encouraged but not required for merit or Honors consideration. (UofSC Admissions 2025–26)
What is the middle 50% ACT/SAT? ACT 25–31 (Honors 32–34); SAT 1190–1390 (Honors 1410–1510).
What’s the average net price? $21,730 (College Scorecard 2025).
Does this school use reciprocity or OOS waivers? Yes — many OOS merit awards function as tuition reductions, effectively granting in-state rates for strong applicants.
https://sc.edu/about/offices_and_divisions/financial_aid/cost_and_aid/cost_to_attend/
https://sc.edu/admissions-at-sc/tuition-aid/
https://sc.edu/about/offices_and_divisions/undergraduate_admissions/tuition_scholarships/
https://sc.edu/about/offices_and_divisions/financial_aid/scholarships/scholarships_for_nonresidents/
https://sc.edu/study/colleges_schools/honors_college/scholar_programs/becoming_a_top_scholar/awards.php
https://oir.usc.edu/common-data-set-archive/common-data-set-2024-2025/
https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/university-of-south-carolina-3448/paying
https://che.sc.gov/academic-common-market
https://meritscholarships.org/undergraduate-scholarships/stamps-scholarship
https://sc.edu/about/offices_and_divisions/bursar/tuition_and_required_fees/
https://sc.edu/about/offices_and_divisions/undergraduate_admissions/documents/2024_oos_financial_aid_guide.pdfde.pdf
💰 Cost of Attendance at University of South Carolina (2025–2026)
The table below lists direct, billed costs only—what families actually pay the University of South Carolina for tuition, required fees, and on-campus housing & meals for a full-time undergraduate student in Columbia.
| In-State | Out-of-State | |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition & Required Fees | $12,288 | $36,988 |
| Housing & Meals (est.) | $16,376 | $16,376 |
| Total (Direct/Billed) | $28,664 | $53,364 |
Why only these items? We include only the costs students pay directly to USC—tuition, required fees, and on-campus room & board. Other indirect expenses (books/supplies, transportation, personal) vary by student and are not billed by the university. Housing and meal costs shown use USC’s 2025–26 on-campus estimate; actual totals vary by residence hall and meal plan.
📉 Average Net Price (after aid)
The latest federal data show an average net price around $21,700 per year after scholarships and grants. Your family’s actual cost will depend on GPA, test scores, FAFSA results, and scholarship timing. Learn how Net Price and the Student Aid Index (SAI) work in our guide: Net Price & SAI explained.
USC participates in the Academic Common Market (ACM), allowing eligible students from SREB states to pay in-state tuition for approved majors not offered in their home state. Strong non-resident applicants may also receive automatic or competitive merit that significantly reduces the non-resident rate. Military-connected students using qualifying VA benefits may receive in-state classification regardless of residency.
Savings example: Non-resident tuition & fees are about $36,988 vs. $12,288 in-state — a potential difference of roughly $24,700 per year before scholarships/waivers.
FAQ — Understanding USC Costs
Why is the out-of-state total so much higher?
Non-resident tuition adds about $24,700 per year to the bill compared to in-state students. Many out-of-state students reduce this gap through merit awards or Academic Common Market waivers.
Does USC give automatic tuition discounts to strong out-of-state applicants?
Yes. High-achieving non-residents often qualify for Academic Scholar or McKissick awards that reduce tuition to the in-state rate, often saving $20,000+ per year.
Are housing and meal costs fixed?
No. The $16,376 figure is an average for standard on-campus housing and meal plans. Actual totals vary by residence hall, room type, and meal plan selection.
What does “net price” mean at USC?
It’s the average cost after scholarships and grants. For most students, the net price averages around $21,700 per year, but it depends heavily on academic merit and FAFSA results.
Can military families qualify for in-state rates?
Yes. Students using qualifying VA education benefits are classified as in-state for tuition under South Carolina law, regardless of residency.
What’s the key date for financial aid and scholarship consideration?
Submit your application for admission by December 1 and complete the FAFSA by April 1 for maximum eligibility.
https://sc.edu/about/offices_and_divisions/undergraduate_admissions/tuition_scholarships/
https://sc.edu/about/offices_and_divisions/financial_aid/cost_and_aid/cost_to_attend/
https://sc.edu/admissions-at-sc/tuition-aid/
https://sc.edu/about/offices_and_divisions/housing/rates-fees/
https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/university-of-south-carolina-3448/paying
https://sc.edu/about/offices_and_divisions/veterans_and_military_services/pay_for_college/tuition_assistance/
https://sc.edu/about/offices_and_divisions/financial_aid/scholarships/scholarships_for_nonresidents/
https://che.sc.gov/academic-common-market
https://sc.edu/about/offices_and_divisions/dining_services/meal_plansal_plans/
Automatic Merit Scholarships at University of South Carolina
The University of South Carolina automatically considers all first-year applicants for merit-based scholarships—no separate application required. Students who apply for admission by December 1 are reviewed for these awards, which are based on high school GPA and standardized test scores.
Important: USC superscores both the ACT and SAT and evaluates GPA on a weighted 4.0 scale. Honors, AP, IB, and dual enrollment classes can raise GPA above 4.0. Award tiers are determined by the combination of GPA and test scores submitted by the priority deadline.
| Scholarship | Award Amount (OOS) | Typical Criteria (GPA + Test) | Separate App? | Renewable? | Who Actually Wins | Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| McKissick (Presidential) | Tuition reduction to in-state rate + $11,000 per year | 4.0+ weighted GPA and 33+ ACT / 1450+ SAT | No | Yes (4 years; 3.0 USC GPA) | Top 1–2% of admits; National Merit and high AP/IB performers | Dec 1 |
| Academic Scholar – Excellence | Tuition reduction to in-state rate + $9,500 per year | 4.0+ weighted GPA and 30+ ACT / 1360+ SAT | No | Yes (4 years; 3.0 USC GPA) | High-stats applicants with strong rigor and test scores | Dec 1 |
| Academic Scholar – Distinction | Tuition reduction to in-state rate + $7,000 per year | 3.75+ weighted GPA and 28+ ACT / 1310+ SAT | No | Yes (4 years; 3.0 USC GPA) | Strong students with solid rigor and leadership | Dec 1 |
| Academic Scholar – Leadership | Tuition reduction to in-state rate + $5,000 per year | 3.5+ weighted GPA and 26+ ACT / 1230+ SAT | No | Yes (4 years; 3.0 USC GPA) | Leaders, service-driven students, solid academics | Dec 1 |
Note: Award tiers include both a tuition reduction to the in-state rate (a value of about $20,000+ per year) plus the annual cash amount listed. GPA/test cutoffs are approximate and based on 2025–2026 award data; thresholds vary slightly by year and applicant pool.
Automatic Merit FAQs
When is the deadline for automatic scholarship consideration?
Apply for admission by December 1 for full merit consideration. Supporting materials (scores, transcripts, etc.) are typically accepted through January 15.
Is a separate scholarship application required?
No. All first-time freshmen who meet the deadline are automatically reviewed for general university merit scholarships.
Does USC superscore test results?
Yes. The university uses the highest ACT and SAT section scores across all test dates to maximize a student’s eligibility.
How is GPA calculated for these awards?
USC evaluates the weighted GPA using the South Carolina Uniform Grading Scale, where advanced courses carry extra weight.
Are these awards renewable?
Yes. Recipients must maintain at least a 3.0 USC GPA and full-time enrollment each semester.
When are students notified?
Automatic merit awards are typically released with or shortly after the admission decision. Competitive or honors awards follow later in the spring.
https://sc.edu/about/offices_and_divisions/undergraduate_admissions/tuition_scholarships/
https://sc.edu/about/offices_and_divisions/financial_aid/scholarships/scholarships_for_nonresidents/
https://sc.edu/about/offices_and_divisions/undergraduate_admissions/documents/2024_oos_financial_aid_guide.pdf
https://sc.edu/about/offices_and_divisions/financial_aid/scholarships/scholarship_policies/
Flagship Scholarships (Competitive Scholarships) — University of South Carolina
| Scholarship | Award Amount | Eligibility | Separate App? | Renewable? | Who Actually Wins? | Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Top Scholars (Stamps, McNair, Carolina, 1801, Horseshoe) | From high-value tuition awards up to full cost of attendance + enrichment stipend | Admitted or applying to the Honors College; exceptional academics, leadership, and essays; interviews required | Yes — via Honors/Top Scholar process | Yes | Top 1–2% of the applicant pool; up to 45 total students between in-state and out-of-state cohorts | Nov 15 (Honors/Top Scholar); credentials by Dec 1 |
| Alumni Scholars Award | $8,000 per year; out-of-state recipients also receive in-state tuition rates | Strong academics, leadership, and community involvement; administered with the Alumni Association | No separate application | Yes | Top South Carolina high school seniors and high-achieving out-of-state admits | Dec 1 (completed application and credentials) |
| University Scholars Award | Up to $2,000 per year | Strong academics and service; selected from the general applicant pool | No | Yes | Well-rounded students with rigor, service, and leadership experience | Dec 1 (completed application and credentials) |
Flagship / Competitive Scholarship FAQs
What are the key dates?
November 15 is the Honors/Top Scholar application deadline, and December 1 is the final credential deadline for scholarship consideration.
How many Top Scholars are selected each year?
USC awards roughly 45 combined Top Scholar scholarships annually (including Stamps, McNair, Carolina, 1801, and Horseshoe Scholars), split between South Carolina residents and out-of-state students.
Do National Merit Finalists receive special packages?
Yes. USC provides National Merit packages worth up to $10,000 per year for residents and $6,000 per year plus in-state tuition rates for nonresidents. Finalists must list USC as their first-choice institution with NMSC.
Is USC part of the Stamps Scholarship network?
Yes. The Stamps Scholarship is one of USC’s premier Top Scholar awards and includes additional enrichment funding.
What can students do to prepare?
Prioritize strong essays and activity documentation. Use the Essay Toolkit, Brag Sheet Builder, and Reference Request Kit to organize materials before applying.
https://sc.edu/study/colleges_schools/honors_college/scholar_programs/becoming_a_top_scholar/awards.php
https://sc.edu/about/offices_and_divisions/fellowships_and_scholar_programs/top_scholars/
https://sc.edu/about/offices_and_divisions/financial_aid/scholarships/scholarships_for_nonresidents/
https://meritscholarships.org/undergraduate-scholarships/stamps-scholarship
https://sc.edu/about/offices_and_divisions/financial_aid/scholarships/scholarships_for_sc_residents/
https://sc.edu/about/offices_and_divisions/undergraduate_admissions/tuition_scholarships/nonresidents/
https://sc.edu/study/colleges_schools/honors_college/scholar_programs/
https://www.scholarships.com/scholarships/university-of-south-carolina-alumni-scholars-award-nonresidents
South Carolina Honors College
USC’s Honors College is among the nation’s best—and also one of the most competitive. A separate Honors application is required (Top Scholar consideration typically by mid-November). Admission is holistic: GPA, rigor, essays, leadership, and (if submitted) test scores.
| Scholarship / Program | Award Amount | Eligibility (plain English) | Separate App? | Renewable? | Who Actually Wins? | Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stamps Scholar (Top Scholar) | Full cost of attendance + stipend ($20,000+/yr) + $15,000 enrichment fund | Admitted to/selected with Honors; outstanding academics, leadership, and service | Yes | Yes (maintain GPA & participation) | ~10 students/year; ACT 33–36 / SAT 1480–1570; top 1–2% with national-level leadership | Mid-Nov (Honors/Top Scholar app) |
| Carolina Scholar (Top Scholar, SC residents) | $15,000/yr + $10,000 one-time enrichment (≈$70k over 4 yrs) | SC resident; Honors-level academics and leadership; Top Scholar interviews | Yes | Yes | Highly selective; ACT 32–35 / SAT 1450–1550; top 1–3% with strong service record | Mid-Nov (Honors/Top Scholar app) |
| McNair Scholar (Top Scholar, non-residents) | Full tuition (in-state for OOS) + $22,000/yr + enrichment stipend | Out-of-state; Honors-caliber academics; Top Scholar interviews | Yes | Yes | ~20 non-residents/year; ACT 33–35 / SAT 1480–1550; leadership and academic excellence | Mid-Nov (Honors/Top Scholar app) |
| Horseshoe Scholar (Top Scholar, non-residents) | In-state tuition + $11,000/yr (≈$142k over 4 yrs) | Out-of-state; Honors-caliber academics; Top Scholar interviews | Yes | Yes | Up to ~20 students/year; ACT 31–34 / SAT 1390–1510; strong academics and campus engagement trajectory | Mid-Nov (Honors/Top Scholar app) |
| 1801 Scholar (Top Scholar, SC residents) | ~$10,000/yr (≈$40,000 over 4 yrs) | SC resident; Honors-caliber profile; Top Scholar interviews | Yes | Yes | ~50 in-state students/year; ACT 31–34 / SAT 1390–1510; top academics with leadership/service | Mid-Nov (Honors/Top Scholar app) |
Notes: Counts and amounts reflect current 2025–26 data. Renewal requires maintaining Honors/Top Scholar GPA and participation standards.
Honors & Top Scholar — FAQs (University of South Carolina)
Do I have to apply separately?
Yes. You must submit both the USC application and a separate Honors/Top Scholar application (priority by mid-November) to be considered for Stamps, Carolina, McNair, 1801, and Horseshoe awards.
How competitive is Top Scholar selection?
Extremely. Most finalists are in the top 1–3% of applicants, with ACT 31–36 / SAT 1390–1570 ranges, exceptional essays, and major leadership or service involvement. Around 100 students are invited to interviews each year.
Is test-optional allowed?
Yes. USC remains test-optional. If scores are provided, they’re reviewed alongside essays, rigor, and recommendations. Honors looks for evidence of intellectual curiosity and engagement beyond GPA alone.
Do Top Scholar awards stack with Palmetto Fellows or LIFE?
Typically yes, but total aid cannot exceed the Cost of Attendance. USC coordinates award packaging through the Office of Financial Aid and National Fellowships & Scholar Programs.
Do I need Honors admission to receive a Top Scholar award?
Yes — all Top Scholars are part of the Honors College and participate in Honors seminars, advising, and enrichment programs.
What makes USC’s Honors College unique?
It offers small, interdisciplinary classes, undergraduate research from year one, and competitive funding for national fellowships (Rhodes, Truman, Fulbright, etc.) — supported by a strong advising team.
https://sc.edu/about/offices_and_divisions/financial_aid/scholarships/scholarships_for_nonresidents/
https://sc.edu/about/offices_and_divisions/financial_aid/scholarships/scholarships_for_sc_residents/
https://sc.edu/study/colleges_schools/honors_college/scholar_programs/becoming_a_top_scholar/awards.php
https://sc.edu/about/offices_and_divisions/undergraduate_admissions/honors_and_scholars_programs/apply/
https://meritscholarships.org/undergraduate-scholarships/stamps-scholarship
https://sc.edu/study/colleges_schools/honors_college/internal/student_leadership_engagement/scholar_programs/scholar_expectations.php
https://sc.edu/about/offices_and_divisions/undergraduate_admissions/tuition_scholarships/sc_residents/
https://sc.edu/about/offices_and_divisions/financial_aid/scholarships/scholarship_policies/
🎯 What the University of South Carolina Is Nationally Known For
- R1 Research University: Dubbed a “Doctoral University with Highest Research Activity,” placing UofSC among the nation’s elite research universities.
- Top Master of Library & Information Science (MLIS): Ranked #16 nationally, and in specialty areas:
- School Library: #5 nationally, #1 in SEC
- Children & Youth Services: #5 nationally, #1 in SEC
- Graduate Business Excellence: Moore School’s IMBA is top-ranked, plus professional MBA ranks improved—USC houses more ranked graduate programs than any in the state.
- Online Nursing Leader: College of Nursing’s online graduate nursing program ranks #1 in the U.S., including among public universities and veterans.
- Broadly Ranked Programs: USC hosts more than 60 nationally ranked graduate programs—including school library media (#7), children & youth services (#9), criminology (#23), nuclear engineering (#25).
📎 Official Links
- 🔗 University of South Carolina Homepage
- 🔗 South Carolina Honors College
- 🔗 Scholarships & Financial Aid