University of South Carolina
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University of South Carolina: Rankings, Cost, Programs, Placements

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Dark Clock Icon Last updated on 11 Oct '24, by Tasneem Hoda (Study Abroad Expert)

USC
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The University of South Carolina takes admissions on a rolling basis, hence international students can apply throughout the year. 

About University of South Carolina

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Year of establishment
1801
Also known as
USC
University website
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Student website
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Total foreign students
1795
No. of campus
1
Scholarships available
9
Endowment value
USD 770 million
Scholarships granted
25051
Scholarship amount granted
USD 173 million
English proficiency test
Required
Accepted exams
SAT/ACT accepted
Optional
Total faculty
2027
Faculty/Student ratio
18
Male/Female ratio
1.22
UG/PG course ratio
1.81
Total criminal offences
980
Quick university statsInsights on student demographics, enrolment, and academic success
UG Race

Others

80%

Black

9%

Hispanic

5%

Asian

4%

UG Student residence

In state

52%

Out of state

46%

UG Age distribution

24 and under

97%

25 and over

2%

UG Applicant Icon

UG Number of Applicant

42188
grad RateIcon

Overall Graduation Rate

0.78
UG Enroll Icon

UG Enrollment

27343
PG Enroll Icon

PG Enrollment

8310
Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
On Highlights

Q:   Is University of South Carolina difficult to get into?

A: 

The University of South Carolina acceptance rate is 62%. With such a high acceptance rate, it is not very difficulty to get into the university as USC is moderately selective. Also, as per the US News and World Repor, the acceptance rate of the University of South Carolina is 64%. Thus, we can say, the acceptance rate of the Universit of South Carolina lies between 62% to 64%. However, the university can be very selective for its popular courses and professional courses. 

Q:   Is University of South Carolina good for international students?

A: 

Yes, the University of South Carolina is one of the best universities in the world for internatioanl students. There is something for everyone at the University of South Carolina. Each year thousands of students from across the US and around the world come to study at the University of South Carolina. Currently, there are more than 1,500 international students studying more than 100 different majors and academic programs in the University of South Carolina. 

Q:   Does the University of South Carolina offer scholarships to international students?

A: 

Yes, the Universtiy of South Carolina offers hundreds of scholarships to international students. However, the university onlye offers merit-based scholarships and not need-based scholarships for international students. There are many scholarships at the department and university levels that are offered to international students. Some of the popular merit-based scholarships for international students are as follows:

Scholarship NameAward
Stamps ScholarsApproximately USD 196,000 (INR 1,62,58,200) (4-year value)
McNair ScholarsAprooximately USD 128,000 (INR 1,06,17,600)(4-year value)
Provost ScholarsUp to USD 104,400 (INR 86,59,980) (4-year value)

*USD/INR = 82.95

Q:   How to apply to the University of South Carolina?

A: 

The undergraduate applicants can submit the application either through USC application or Common Application. In the case of graduate program, the applicants have to fill out either a general USC graduate school application or the school designated application (as applicable). The documents that are needed to complete the University of South Carolina application are:

Undergraduate Courses

  • Completed application (including high-school courses / grades for the senior year, essay, extra-curricular activities, etc.)
  • English language proficiency scores
  • Official secondary transcripts from all secondary schools attended
  • SAT / ACT scores – if using (Test-Optional)

Graduate Courses

  • Official transcripts
  • Official test scores (as applicable)
  • Letters of recommendation
  • IELTS / TOEFL / PTE score

Q:   What is the University of South Carolina selection process?

A: 

U of SC international freshman admission is based on a student’s performance and English language proficiency scores. The Admissions Committee evaluates the applicants on the basis of the following factors:

  • Choice of major
  • Required essay
  • Extra-curricular awards, honors and awards

University of South Carolina Scholarships

Explore scholarship opportunities at
this University
Alternative Star Icon9 exclusive scholarships availableAlternative Star Icon41.8 K worth total scholarship amount
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We have helped students get 30Cr+ in scholarships

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Commonly asked questions
On Scholarships

Q:   What are the most prestigious scholarship awards of USC?

A: 

The University of South Carolina offers a number of scholarships to international students. However, the Stamps, McNair and Horseshoe Scholars Awards are the most prestigious scholarships awards given to international students by USC. Each year 45 international students are given these awards based on strong academic records and leadership qualities. 

Scholarship Awards
Stamps Scholars AwardsApproximately USD 21,240 (INR 17,61,858)+ tuition reduction to in-state + USD 15,000 (INR 12,44,250) enrichment fund
McNair Scholars AwardsUSD 22,000 (INR 18,24,900)+ tuition reduction to in-state + USD 12,000 (INR 9,95,400) enrichment fund
Horseshoe Scholars AwardsUSD 11,000 (INR 9,12,450)+ tuition reduction to in-state rate

*USD/INR = 82.95

Q:   Does University of South Carolina give scholarships to international students?

A: 

Yes, the University of South Carolina provides scholarship to international students. International Student Excellent Scholarship is offered to reward high achieving international students. This scholarship is offered to two F1 international students each academic year. This is awarded to those students who have cumulative GPA of 3.5 or above and are enrolled at the University of South Carolina for at least two semesters. Other eligibility requirements for this scholarship can be checked from the official website of the University of South Carolina. The application requirements for this scholarship:

Scholarship application

  • Official transcripts from the most recent semester of enrollment
  • One professional or academic letter of recommendation
  •  500-word maximum personal statement indicating the academic excellence, leadership ability, community engagement, and why an applicant is applying for this scholarship

Also Read: Scholarships to Study in USA for International Students 

University of South Carolina Admission Deadlines 2024

  • Application fees :USD 35 - 100
  • Type of deadline :Depends on course
Document IconDocuments
Type of documentsApplicable for
SOPNeeded for few courses
LORNeeded for few courses
EssaysNeeded for few courses
CVNeeded for few courses
Additional documentsRequired
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Sign-up to view details
Calendar IconImportant dates
Intake seasonDeadline
Fall1ˢᵗ Feb - 15ᵗʰ May 2025
Spring1ˢᵗ Oct 2025
Summer1ˢᵗ Feb - 1ˢᵗ May 2025
Admission details of all coursesRight Arrow Icon
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Commonly asked questions
On Admissions

Q:   How to apply at the University of South Carolina?

A: 

International students can apply online at the University of South Carolina for more than 350+ academic degree programs. International applicants apply either by the USC Application portal or the Common App portal. International students should check the minimum eligibility and admission deadlines before applyin at the University of South Carolina. 

Q:   How can I apply to the University of South Carolina for MFA in Creative Writing?

A: 

The applicants willing to take admission to the MFA in Creative Writing course of the University of South Carolina can apply directly from the official website of the university (Graduate School website). The application materials required to submit MFA in Creative Writing are:

  • A creative writing sample in the genre for which an applicant is applying
  • At least 2 letters of recommendation
  • A Statement of Purpose
  • Transcripts from attended undergraduate and graduate (if applicable) institutions
  • Application fee

Q:   Is the University of South Carolina difficult to get into?

A: 

The University of South Carolina acceptance rate is 64% according to U.S. News & World Report. Looking at the acceptance rate, it can be said that the university is moderately selective when it comes to admissions. So, to take admission to the University of South Carolina, the applicants are required to have a good academic record. Besides this, to improve the chance of taking admission to this university, the applicants are required to meet all the specified entry and application requirements.

Q:   How can I get into the University of South Carolina from India?

A: 

The University of South Carolina admission requirements are given below:

  • Undergraduate Courses: The applicants are required to have high school grades / grades for the senior year only. SAT / ACT scores submission is test-optional.
  • Graduate Courses: For graduate courses of the University of South Carolina, the applicants are required to have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university (or international equivalent). The standardized test scores for graduate programs are GMAT / GRE, etc. (as applicable)

University of South Carolina Fees

Accordion Icon V3
Courses1st Year Tuition FeesDuration & Eligibility
MS(27 courses)
INR 25 L - 31 L
Duration1 year-2 years
Exam AcceptedIELTS: 6.5 - 7, Duolingo: 115 - 120, TOEFL: 80 & Above
BBA(15 courses)
INR 29 L
Duration4 years
Exam AcceptedIELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 77 & Above, PTE: 53 & Above
B.E. / B.Tech(12 courses)
INR 29 L
Duration4 years
Exam AcceptedIELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 77 & Above, PTE: 53 & Above
MBA/PGDM(10 courses)
INR 21 L - 51 L
Duration10-28 months
Exam AcceptedIELTS: 6.5 - 7.5, TOEFL: 95 - 100, PTE: 53 - 68
MIM(7 courses)
INR 21 L - 26 L
Duration10-24 months
Exam AcceptedIELTS: 6.5 - 7.5, TOEFL: 100 & Above, GMAT
MEng(1 course)
INR 25 L
Duration18-24 months
Exam AcceptedDuolingo: 115 & Above
MEM(1 course)
INR 25 L
Duration24 months
Exam AcceptedIELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 80 & Above
BHM(1 course)
INR 29 L
Duration4 years
Exam AcceptedIELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 77 & Above, PTE: 53 & Above
M.A.(22 courses)
INR 25 L
Duration18 months-2 years
Exam AcceptedIELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 80 & Above, PTE: 53 & Above
B.A.(26 courses)
INR 29 L
Duration4 years
Exam AcceptedIELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 77 & Above, PTE: 53 & Above
Read more
View Course Wise Fees ->
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Commonly asked questions
On Fees and Eligibility

Q:   How much is University of South Carolina tuition fees for international students?

A: 

The University of South Carolina is a public university, therefore, the tuition fee for domestic and international students will vary. The tuition fee will also depend on the type of course and level of study. The tuition fee for some popular courses at USC are given below:

CourseAverage Tuition Fee
MSINR 25 L - 31 L 
BAINR 28 L 
MA INR 25 L 
BE/BTechINR 27.8 L - 28.6 L 

Q:   What are the admission requirements for international students to get into USC?

A: 

The minimum admission eligiblity for international students will vary from programme program. International students should check the minimum eligiblity for their course before applying at the University of South Carolina. The general admission requirements for international students applying for the University of South Carolina are as follows:

  • Completed Application form
  • Academic transcripts of Class 12
  • Bachelor's degree
  • SAT/ACT
  • GRE/GMAT
  • Resume/CV
  • English language proficiency
  • Essay
  • Letter of Recommendations

Q:   Does USC require English proficiency test?

A: 

The University of South Carolina requires international students to prove their proficiency in the English language. The minimum English langauge requirements will vary from course to course and depend on the level of study. The minimum English langauge test scores required for UG and PG courses are given below:

ExamUG ProgramsPG Programs
TOEFL7780
IELTS6.56.5
Duolingo115n/a
PTEn/a53

Q:   Does the University of South Carolina require GRE for MSc in Computer Science and Engineering?

A: 

Particularly for the U of SC MSc in Computer Science and Engineering course, an official GRE score is required. The required documents to apply for the MSc in Computer Science and Engineering course are:

  • Official transcripts
  • Two letters of recommendation
  • Official GRE score
  • CV / Resume
  • Personal Statement

Q:   How much is the University of South Carolina application fee for international students?

A: 

The University of South Carolina application fee for undergraduate courses is USD 100 (Around INR 8,000). This fee is around INR 8,000. Till July 15, 2023, the USC base application fee for graduate courses was USD 50. However, after July, this application fee will be waived off for Summer 2024, Fall 2024, and Spring 2025 admission intakes.

 

USC
Students Ratings & Reviews

3.8/5
Verified Icon3 Verified ReviewsInfo Icon
Vibe of Campus
  • Multi-dimensional
  • Friendly
  • Academically oriented
Student Views
  • 0% students never faced discrimination in this university
Internships3
Part time work3
Post study jobs4.3
Quality of faculty4.7
Student Life4.3
Value for money4
Public transportation3.7
Safety4
Indian Food3.3
Permanent Immigration3.3
R
Raghav Sharma Verified Icon
Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering - Batch of 2024
4
The university is good so take your time to explore.
Tips: My time here has been enriching both personally as well as academically as the university offers a lot of resources for its students, especially international students. The Indian Student Association is also particularly helpful and will help you feel a sense of familiarity as well. The faculty is very understanding, and helpful and has industry experience. There are lots of events, seminars and activities to participate in and build connections.
Reviewed on 16 Sep 2024Read more
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D
Dev Kataria Verified Icon
One-Year MBA - Batch of 2023
4
Better jobs and clean environment
Tips: I think students should learn to manage their time and schedule if they want to work part time as well as attend the college. The food situation is good on campus but they should always bring their own food just in case the food in college isn't available.
Likes (Part time work): There are a lot of jobs near the college which will help with a passive income. It's very easy to work part-time but on the other hand the college schedule is very tight so I have to manage the time accordingly. But, the jobs give a fare income which is very helpful.
Dislikes (Student Life): I gave it a low rating because sometimes there is just too much stress between your part time job and college work. Its hard to handle both of them at the same time, so I have to work my way according to time. The schedule is very tight and hard to manage at times.
Reviewed on 7 Feb 2022Read more
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V
Vania Verified Icon
MS in Technology Innovation and Entrepreneurial Engineering - Batch of 2026
3.5
University of South Carolina is very friendly and diverse.
Tips: USC has provided me with a lot of personal and professional growth and the campus has a very motivating atmosphere. The amount of diversity here is an advantage and the course curriculum is well structured, covering all the essentials. Keep up your classroom engagement and feel free to explore as much as you can don't hesitate to reach out to the faculty as they are very talented, friendly and helpful.
Reviewed on 16 Sep 2024Read more
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A
AnonymousVerified Icon
Master of Science in Environmental Health Sciences - Batch of 2024
3.8
Great college environment with a fantastic student experience.
Tips: Studying here has been a great experience for me. The campus is diverse and accommodating and I have had the opportunity to engage with students from multiple backgrounds as well here. The academic programs are rigorous but the faculty and students are very supportive. Overall, I am satisfied with my experiences.
Reviewed on 16 Sep 2024Read more
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University of South Carolina Placements

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University of South Carolina Rankings 2025

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Commonly asked questions
On Rankings

Q:   Is University of South Carolina a good university?

A: 

The University of South Carolina is one of the most respected and top-ranked universities in the world. The University of South Carolina rankings in the QS and THE world university rankings are consistently placed among the best universities globally and nationally. The global and national rankings of the University of South Carolina are as follows:

Ranking BodyRanking
THE World University Rankings 2024 - Global#401-500
The QS World University Rankings 2024 - Global#575
US News and World Report 2023 - Global#346
US News and World Report 2023 - National#115

Q:   Is the business school of USC a prestigious school?

A: 

Darla Moore School of Business of the University of South Carolina is one of the most prestigious universities in the country. It offers a number of top-ranked business and managemetn courses including an MBA programme to international students. The global and national ranking of USC for business and management are as follows:

Ranking Body Ranking 
QS World University Rankings  2023 - Global MBA#151-200
THE World University Rankings 2023 - Business and Economics#251-300
US News and World Report 2023 - Business School #47

USC
College comparison

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Compare USC with other similar colleges

MS
BBA
B.E. / B.Tech
MBA/PGDM
MIM
MEng
MEM
BHM
M.A.
B.A.
College1st Year Tuition FeesShiksha GradeRanking

USC

INR 25.08 L - 31.04 LA#601 QS, 2025
INR 18.5 L - 24.67 LA#466 QS, 2025

The Ohio State University

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INR 16.4 L - 55.5 LA+#208 QS, 2025
INR 16.49 L - 28.09 LB++#641 QS, 2025

Clemson University

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INR 19.7 L - 37.68 LB++#951 QS, 2025

University of Florida

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INR 15.87 L - 31.74 LA#215 QS, 2025
The values are of the latest years available with Shiksha. For more details, check detailed comparison
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USC
Studying in USA

Key Facts About USA

Insights on education, demographics & weather.
Education in USA
school Key Fact Icon
963+
backpack Key Fact Icon
3.38L
cashRegister Key Fact Icon
20 hours per week
cashRegister Key Fact Icon
12 months
Country stats
mapPin Key Fact Icon
Washington D.C.
keyUsers Key Fact Icon
334.23M (2023)
chartMixed Key Fact Icon
2%
letterA Key Fact Icon
English
Weather
December
CF
Popular LocationsMinMax
Boston-26
New York07
Chicago-33
Los Angeles920
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University of South Carolina Notable Alumni

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University of South Carolina FAQs

Q:   How many campuses does the University of South Carolina have?

A: 

The University of South Carolina is one of the most prestigious universities in the United States. It is spread in 20 locations across the United States witih 8 campuses and 1 online campus, i.e., Palmetto College. The Eigh campuses of the university are given below:

USC Campuses 
USC Aiken USC Beaufort
USC Columbia USC Lancaster
USC SalkehatchieUSC Sumter
USC UnionUSC Upstate

Q:   What GPA is required for the University of South Carolina for international students?

A: 

The minimum GPA requirement at the University of South Carolina will vary from course to course. Therefore, international students should check the minimum GPA required for their course before applying to USC. However, in general, international applicants must have a minimum of 2.0 GPA (4.0 Scale) or higher for admission at USC. 

Q:   What is the University of South Carolina mascot?

A: 

The University of South Carolina mascot is Cocky - a cartoon version of a gamecock. A gamecock is a fighting breed of rooster which is bred and trained for fighting. Gamecock has been the University of South Carolina's official symbol since 1902. The costume included fabric feathers, a cardboard bill, and Styrofoam spurs

Q:   What are the best reasons to attend the University of South Carolina?

A: 

There are so many wonderful things about the University of South Carolina. First, it’s absolutely beautiful and old buildings have so much history that it’s easy to overlook the need for renovations. Second, GO GAMECOCKS! its hard to find fans like this at any other school in the United States. Third, The Columbia community at large is incredibly supportive of the university and its students. Finally, the education is great, the university offer top-rated academic programs and a quality of education. 

Q:   How much is the application fee for South Carolina University?

A: 

The application fee for international students at the University of South Carolina is USD 100. This application fee is non-refundable. International students can pay this application fee online through their VISA or MasterCard credit card. It is important to submit the application fee after the filling out application form, else, the application form will not be considered for evaluation. 

Q:   How much is housing at the University of South Carolina?

A: 

The University of South Carolina offers a variety of accommodation options for international students. The cost of housing for international students will depend on the type of accommodation and type of room you choose to live in. The cost of living on the campus of the University of South Carolina are given below:

Fall 2023-Spring 2024 Residence Hall Rates

Residence HallRates
Lincoln - 2 Bedroom ApartmentUSD 6,380 (INR 5,29,221)
Lincoln - 4 Bedroom ApartmentUSD 6,048 (INR 5,01,681)
HendersonUSD 4,645 (INR 3,85,302)
Bates HouseUSD 6,410 (INR 5,31,709)
Green QuadUSD 5,310 (INR 4,40,464)

*USD/INR = 82.95

Q:   Does the University of South Carolina offer on-campus accommodations to international students?

A: 

Yes, the University of South Carolina have a numbr of halls of residence for international students. The University of South Carolina has various types of accommodations suitable for all type of students. Inernational students applying for on-campus housing at the University of South Carolina have to pay the following charges.

ParticularsCost
Activity FeeUSD 50 (INR 4,147)
Technology Network FeeUSD 76 (INR 6,304)
Mail and Package Service FeeUSD 150 (INR 12,442)

*USD/INR = 82.95

qna

USC

Student Forum

chatAnything you would want to ask experts?
Write here...

Answered a year ago

The University of South Carolina takes admissios on a rolling basis. However, international students should check the admission deadlines for their course before applying at the University of South Carolina. The importat dates for international students applying to the University of South Carolina a

...more

43282603
Anurag Pal

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a year ago

The applicants are required to have the following in order to apply to the University of South Carolina:

  • Must have passed high school
  • The applicants are also expected to study some of the courses which can be checked from here
  • English language proficiency score

The English language proficiency scores re

...more

43342425
Akanksha Malhotra

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a year ago

To apply for BSc in Civil Engineering course at the University of South Carolina, the applicants can apply through Common Application or USC Application portal. The application materials required to apply for the University of South Carolina BSc in Civil Engineering course are:

  • Completed application

...more

43342425
Akanksha Malhotra

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a year ago

For MFA in Creative Writing, the overall acceptance rate of the University of South Carolina was approximately 18%, while in fiction, where the university receives the most applications, the acceptance rate was below 8%. The MFA Admissions Committee at the University of South Carolina considers the

...more

43342425
Akanksha Malhotra

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a year ago

International students willing to take admission to U of SC need to submit evidence of English language proficiency and they can submit the test scores of IELTS / TOEFL / PTE, etc. The test scores needed in these English language exams are given below:

Exams

Undergraduate

Graduate

TOEFL

iBT: 77

PBT: 550

iBT: 80

IELTS

6.5

6.5

PTE

53

53

Duolingo

115

 

SAT

560 (Evidence-Based Reading Writing sub-score)

 

ACT

22 (English sub-score)

 

(Note: The University of South Carolina may nee

...more

43342425
Akanksha Malhotra

Contributor-Level 10

About the author

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Tasneem Hoda

Study Abroad Expert

Tasneem Hoda is a Content Creator and Writer working for Shiksha.com. Her role includes developing and maintaining web pages for international universities at the Shiksha Study Abroad Portal, ensuring accuracy, completeness, and alignment with instit...Read Full Bio
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USC Others(4)James E. Clyburn Research Center
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USC
Location

Accordion Icon V3
University CityColumbia, South Carolina, USA
Size of cityMedium
Population of City5,49,777

USC
Campuses

Departments Icon1   Campuses
Columbia CambusUp Arrow Icon
Address

USC
Contact Information

Address

Columbia, SC 29208, USA
Columbia ( South Carolina)

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