University of South Carolina

902 Sumter St. Columbia, SC

• Rating: A
• 27,389 Students
• Public

Description

The University of South Carolina (USC), located in Columbia, is the state’s flagship public university and a top research institution. Known for its strong programs in business, engineering, public health, and international studies, USC offers a diverse academic experience. The university is home to the Darla Moore School of Business, which is highly ranked for international business, and boasts a vibrant campus culture with deep traditions, including its passionate Gamecock athletics. With a commitment to innovation and student success, USC provides a well-rounded education in a dynamic setting.

National Merit

Provost Scholars Award – South Carolina Residents

• Annual value: Up to $10,000
• Four-year value: Up to $40,000
• The university awards scholarships to National Merit Finalists. The competition for these awards begins with taking the PSAT/NMSQT in the junior year of high school. To be eligible, National Merit Finalists must list the University of South Carolina as their first choice through the National Merit Corporation by the stated deadline. The annual award value includes $500 sponsored by the National Merit Corporation, if applicable. The Provost Scholars Award may be combined with another general university award.

Provost Scholars Award – Out-of-State Residents

• Annual value: up to $6,000 + tuition reduction to in-state rate
• Four-year value: up to $118,000
• The university awards scholarships to National Merit Finalists. The competition for these awards begins with taking the PSAT/NMSQT in the junior year of high school. To be eligible, National Merit Finalists must list the University of South Carolina as their first choice through the National Merit Corporation by the stated deadline. The annual award value includes $500 sponsored by the National Merit Corporation, if applicable. The Provost Scholars Award may be combined with another general university award.

Additional Scholarship Opportunities

In-State Residents

• Stamps Scholars annual value: Approximately $20,000
  • Enrichment fund: $15,000
  • Four-year value: Approximately $95,000
  • Awards given each year: five
  • Candidates for these awards will be invited to participate in a mandatory interview and an in-person Top Scholar Weekend. Last year, S.C. Top Scholars had an average SAT score of 1530 (ACT score of 34) and an average high school GPA of 5.3 and were in the top 1% of their high school class, on average.
  • To apply for these awards, you must submit both a USC application and an Honors College application to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions. The deadline for the Honors College application is Nov. 15.
• Carolina Scholars Award annual value: $15,000
  • Enrichment fund: $10,000
  • Four-year value: $70,000
  • Awards given each year: 20
  • Candidates for these awards will be invited to participate in a mandatory interview and an in-person Top Scholar Weekend. Last year, S.C. Top Scholars had an average SAT score of 1530 (ACT score of 34) and an average high school GPA of 5.3 and were in the top 1% of their high school class, on average.
  • To apply for these awards, you must submit both a USC application and an Honors College application to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions. The deadline for the Honors College application is Nov. 15.
• 1801 Scholars Award annual value: $10,000
  • Four-year value: $40,000
  • Awards given each year: 25
  • Candidates for these awards will be invited to participate in a mandatory interview and an in-person Top Scholar Weekend. Last year, S.C. Top Scholars had an average SAT score of 1530 (ACT score of 34) and an average high school GPA of 5.3 and were in the top 1% of their high school class, on average.
  • To apply for these awards, you must submit both a USC application and an Honors College application to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions. The deadline for the Honors College application is Nov. 15.

Out-of-State Residents

• Stamps Scholars annual value: approximately $23,610 + tuition reduction to in-state rate + $15,000 enrichment fund
  • Four-year value: approximately $216,000
  • Candidates for these awards will be invited to participate in a mandatory interview and an in-person Top Scholar Weekend. Last year, nonresident Top Scholars had an average SAT score of 1550 (ACT score of 35) and an average high school GPA of 4.8 and were in the top 1% of their high school class, on average. Recipients qualify for the in-state tuition rate.
  • Please note: To apply for these scholarships, both an application for general university admission and an Honors College application supplement must be submitted to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions. All students are encouraged to complete the general admissions application by October 15. A separate Honors College application supplement must be completed for Top Scholars award consideration no later than November 15.
• McNair Scholars annual value: $22,000 + tuition reduction to in-state rate + $12,000 enrichment fund
  • Four-year value: more than $194,000
  • Candidates for these awards will be invited to participate in a mandatory interview and an in-person Top Scholar Weekend. Last year, nonresident Top Scholars had an average SAT score of 1550 (ACT score of 35) and an average high school GPA of 4.8 and were in the top 1% of their high school class, on average. Recipients qualify for the in-state tuition rate.
  • Please note: To apply for these scholarships, both an application for general university admission and an Honors College application supplement must be submitted to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions. All students are encouraged to complete the general admissions application by October 15. A separate Honors College application supplement must be completed for Top Scholars award consideration no later than November 15.
• Horseshoe Scholars annual value: $11,000 + tuition reduction to in-state rate
  • Four-year value: more than $138,000
  • Candidates for these awards will be invited to participate in a mandatory interview and an in-person Top Scholar Weekend. Last year, nonresident Top Scholars had an average SAT score of 1550 (ACT score of 35) and an average high school GPA of 4.8 and were in the top 1% of their high school class, on average. Recipients qualify for the in-state tuition rate.
  • Please note: To apply for these scholarships, both an application for general university admission and an Honors College application supplement must be submitted to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions. All students are encouraged to complete the general admissions application by October 15. A separate Honors College application supplement must be completed for Top Scholars award consideration no later than November 15.

Last Updated: March 2025