South Carolina State University
Orangeburg, South Carolina · Public · HBCU
South Carolina State University admitted 68% of 13,536 applicants (Common Data Set 2025-2026). First-year students who sent the SAT scored 898–1193 in the middle half. Test scores aren’t considered (test blind). 29% of students graduate within six years.
Your chances at South Carolina State University
Enter a score to see whether South Carolina State University is a reach, target or likely school for you.
It doesn’t look at test scores, so this uses the admit rate (68%) alone.
A rough read from the admit rate and test scores only. Grades, courses, essays and activities matter as much or more. To see your whole list at once, use the chances calculator.
Application deadlines
South Carolina State University’s first-year deadlines for 2026–27 on the Common App:
- Regular decision
- Rolling admission
The application is free.
Deadlines end at 11:59 p.m. in your own time zone. From Common App’s requirements grid, updated September 25, 2026. Check South Carolina State University’s admissions site before you submit. See every college’s deadlines or early decision vs. early action.
Early decision and early action
South Carolina State University doesn’t report an early decision or early action round.
What admissions weighs
How South Carolina State University rates each part of an application, from its Common Data Set.
Very important
- Course rigor
- GPA
Important
- –
Considered
- Class rank
- Essay
- Recommendations
- Activities
- Talent or ability
- Volunteering
- Work experience
Not considered
- Test scores
- Interview
- Legacy
- Where you live
- State residency
- Religion
High school GPA
First-year students averaged a 3.17 GPA. 5.9% of those who reported a class rank were in the top 10% of their class.
Some colleges report weighted GPAs, so compare loosely.
What it costs
Full price with housing is $30,060 in-state and $40,750 out-of-state a year. After grants, students paid $17,928 on average (in-state).
Average price after grants, by family income, for in-state students:
Quick answers
What is South Carolina State University’s acceptance rate?
South Carolina State University admitted 68% of applicants: 9,201 of 13,536 (Common Data Set 2025-2026).
When is South Carolina State University’s application deadline?
South Carolina State University uses rolling admission for 2026–27 and has no early round on the Common App, so applying early in the fall gives you the best shot at open spots and aid.
What SAT score do you need for South Carolina State University?
The middle half of admitted students who sent the SAT scored 898 to 1193, with a median around 1040. A score at or above 1040 puts you in the top half of admitted students who sent one.
How much is South Carolina State University’s application fee?
The application is free for 2026–27.
Does South Carolina State University have supplemental essays?
Yes. For 2026–27, South Carolina State University asks 1 question of its own on top of the main essay (one optional short answer, up to 250 words). Its supplemental essays page lists each one word for word with the word limit.
Not sure which colleges fit?
A Clarity Prep mentor builds a balanced list with your student and checks in every week until it’s done.
Writing your essays? See South Carolina State University’s supplemental essays and get a free essay review.