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University of South Carolina

University of South Carolina-Columbia · Columbia, South Carolina · Public

57%acceptance rate
1200–1360SAT middle 50%
26–32ACT middle 50%
$26,068average net price, in-state

University of South Carolina admitted 57% of 59,630 applicants (Common Data Set 2025-2026). First-year students who sent the SAT scored 1200–1360 in the middle half. Test scores are optional. 78% of students graduate within six years.

Your chances at University of South Carolina

Enter a score to see whether University of South Carolina is a reach, target or likely school for you.

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Target

Based on the admit rate (57%) alone. Add a score for a sharper read.

A rough read from the admit rate and test scores only. Grades, courses, essays and activities matter as much or more.

Early decision and early action

University of South Carolina offers early action but didn’t report its early admit rate.

8,805 students were offered a spot on the waitlist, 3,395 took it, and 293 were admitted from it.

What admissions weighs

How University of South Carolina rates each part of an application, from its Common Data Set.

Very important

  • GPA

Important

  • Course rigor
  • Class rank
  • Test scores

Considered

  • Essay
  • Recommendations
  • Activities
  • Talent or ability
  • State residency
  • Volunteering
  • Work experience

Not considered

  • Interview
  • Character
  • First generation
  • Legacy
  • Where you live
  • Religion
  • Showing interest

High school GPA

First-year students averaged a 3.68 GPA. 31% of those who reported a class rank were in the top 10% of their class.

  • 4.015%
  • 3.75–3.9933%
  • 3.50–3.7428%
  • 3.25–3.4915%
  • 3.00–3.247%
  • 2.50–2.991%
  • 2.00–2.490.1%
  • Under 2.00%

Some colleges report weighted GPAs, so compare loosely.

What it costs

Full price with housing is $31,977 in-state and $54,223 out-of-state a year. After grants, students paid $26,068 on average (in-state).

Average price after grants, by family income, for in-state students:

  • $0–30k$14,421
  • $30–48k$17,602
  • $48–75k$22,744
  • $75–110k$26,936
  • $110k+$29,493

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