Founded in 1961, University of South Carolina-Aiken. is a Public college. Located in South Carolina, which is a city setting in South Carolina, the campus itself is Suburban. The campus is home to 3,371 full time undergraduate students, and 177 full time graduate students.
The University of South Carolina-Aiken Academic calendar runs on a Semester basis. In the school year the student to faculty ratio was 15:1. There are 154 full time instructional teachers. Degrees awarded at University of South Carolina-Aiken include: Bachelor's Degree, Masters Degree, Post-master's certificate, Doctor's degree.
Quick Facts
Acceptance Rate
66%
Application Deadline
Application Fee
45
SAT Range
870-1060
ACT Range
18-24
Admissions at USC-Aiken are considered Selective, with ,17% of all applicants being admitted.
In the school year, of the students who applied to the school, only 29 of those who were admitted eventually ended up enrolling.
81% of incoming freshmen are in the top half of their high school class. 43% were in the top quarter, and 17% were in the top tenth. You can apply online.
STUDENT LIFE Reviews
We asked, and students answered these important questions about student life at University of South Carolina-Aiken.
0%
“We”re apathetic”
19%
“We know about current events and vote”
67%
“We participate and encourage others to get involved”
14%
“There”s nothing we won”t protest”
10%
“We save it for the classroom”
10%
“Sometimes, but not often”
67%
“There”s usually intelligent conversation to be found”
14%
“All the time, including weekends”
0%
“I”m always terrified”
5%
“I only go out in groups”
27%
“I usually let someone know where I”m going”
68%
“I feel extremely safe”
18%
“We don”t play sports”
0%
“We play recreationally”
45%
“We bought the gear”
36%
“We live for the big game”
9%
“It”s not really our thing”
5%
“Occasinally we gallery crawl”
73%
“There are a variety of opportunities”
14%
“We”re a very artistic group”
14%
“Haven”t met them”
5%
“Available in class”
41%
“They keep regular office hours”
41%
“They”re always available”
0%
“No greek life, but other groups to join”
32%
“There is some involvement, but not a lot”
64%
“Plenty of people join a sorority or fraternity”
5%
“It”s everything. If you”re not greek, you”re a geek”
9%
“We”re not into drinking at all”
55%
“Maybe a little, but it”s not a big thing”
27%
“We only party on weekends”
9%
“There”s some drinking happening every night”
36%
“Never, we”re here to learn”
50%
“There might be people who do”
9%
“People are known to partake on weekends”
5%
“There”s a huge drug scene”
0%
“We”re apathetic”
19%
“We know about current events and vote”
67%
“We participate and encourage others to get involved”
14%
“There”s nothing we won”t protest”
10%
“We save it for the classroom”
10%
“Sometimes, but not often”
67%
“There”s usually intelligent conversation to be found”
14%
“All the time, including weekends”
0%
“I”m always terrified”
5%
“I only go out in groups”
27%
“I usually let someone know where I”m going”
68%
“I feel extremely safe”
18%
“We don”t play sports”
0%
“We play recreationally”
45%
“We bought the gear”
36%
“We live for the big game”
9%
“It”s not really our thing”
5%
“Occasinally we gallery crawl”
73%
“There are a variety of opportunities”
14%
“We”re a very artistic group”
14%
“Haven”t met them”
5%
“Available in class”
41%
“They keep regular office hours”
41%
“They”re always available”
0%
“No greek life, but other groups to join”
32%
“There is some involvement, but not a lot”
64%
“Plenty of people join a sorority or fraternity”
5%
“It”s everything. If you”re not greek, you”re a geek”
50 Students rated on-campus housing 4.1 stars. 38 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate off-campus housing?
38 Students rated off-campus housing 3.5 stars. 0 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate campus food?
58 Students rated campus food 3.4 stars. 16 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate campus facilities?
61 Students rated campus facilities 4.3 stars. 51 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate class size?
61 Students rated class size 4.6 stars. 70 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate school activities?
60 Students rated school activities 3.9 stars. 28 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate local services?
61 Students rated local services 4.2 stars. 48 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate academics?
61 Students rated academics 4.4 stars. 59 % gave the school a 5.0.
University of South Carolina-Aiken REVIEWS
What's your overall opinion of University of South Carolina-Aiken?
27 Students rated University of South Carolina-Aiken
Jake
Prospective04/19/2025
The University of South Carolina Aiken (USC Aiken) draws my attention for its unique blend of academic excellence, tight-knit community, and vibrant student life. What sets USC Aiken apart is its reputation for maintaining a personalized educational experience within a public university setting. The smaller class sizes allow for meaningful interactions with professors, promoting a more engaging and supportive learning environment—something that deeply appeals to me as a student who thrives through connection and collaboration.
Academically, USC Aiken offers strong programs in a variety of fields, including nursing, education, business, and psychology. I am particularly drawn to the university’s commitment to experiential learning. With opportunities such as internships, undergraduate research, and hands-on projects, students are encouraged to apply what they learn in the classroom to real-world situations. This practical approach to education aligns perfectly with my learning style and long-term goals, as I seek to gain both knowledge and experience during my college years.
In addition to academics, USC Aiken’s culture and student life are major attractions. The campus fosters a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere, where students can build lasting relationships and feel a sense of belonging. I’m excited by the variety of student organizations, leadership opportunities, and community service initiatives available. These outlets not only enrich student life but also help develop personal and professional skills that are valuable beyond college.
Moreover, USC Aiken’s commitment to civic engagement and its connection with the Aiken community demonstrate a strong emphasis on making a positive impact. I’m inspired by this focus and hope to contribute to the university’s legacy of service and excellence.
In all, USC Aiken offers the perfect environment for academic growth, personal development, and meaningful involvement. It is a place where I see myself thriving and making the most of my college experience.
Kaitlyn
11/04/2020
I like the school. I live on campus and I feel very included and safe where I am. The class sizes are smaller compared to what I was used to, it’s a nice fit for me. The people here are approachable and nice. The professors genuinely care about you and your well-being. I really enjoy it.
Bradlee
10/21/2020
I believe it is a really great campus. The faculty is very nice and friendly. The older students are helpful if you have any questions, they are very friendly and easy to talk to. I also love how the campus is not that big so it is easier to get around.
Madison
05/22/2020
My overall opinion of the University of South Carolina-Aiken is a small public university with little student involvement. The school is very small and the environment is similar to a high school. Classrooms are decent and the professors are mainly good. Campus life is boring as students rarely come out to poorly planned events. The sports programs are not the best, therefore, no school spirit. Academically, the classes were easy and I could always contact my professors for help. However, the people at this school are mostly from the town of Aiken, South Carolina, and out-of-state students don't really feel welcomed. As an out-of-state student, I felt like I was misplaced and did not understand their small town connection. This school is not worth traveling many miles for. This school is only good for local people who can go to a relatively cheap university and get a degree.
Corin
10/28/2019
I love going here. There is always something to do, there is something here for everyone. The professors, administrators, and students help all want to see us succeed. No one is left out or to fin for themselves. Here is kind of like one big family. I enjoy the frequent emails about the progress of the school or events for that week.
Totyanna
08/26/2019
I absolutely love the school, the campus is extremely beautiful and well maintained. My professors are well educated and willing to help all students. The academics are amazing and everyone is so nice, it is the perfect environment to learn about your profession and make friends and make a good time, but the tuition is a little expensive.
Amelia
08/13/2019
University of South Carolina - Aiken is the perfect school for me. The atmosphere on campus is amazing. With the campus being small, you see the same people every day. The student-teacher ratio might be the best thing overall. You have quicker access to contact a professor and go to their office hours because of how small classes are, it might be difficult sometimes but professors get back to you when they best can. I would defiantly recommend this university to anyone.
Torie
05/29/2019
I just finished my first semester at USCA, and I must say I truly love the campus, the professors are truly there for the students. You can tell they truly care about the success of their students. I am so glad I Made the decision to come here. The classrooms are always so clean, and the restrooms. Even the students there are very helpful as well.
Tytihana
04/23/2019
It’s A Fantastic School To Be At Go Pacers
Thomas
03/09/2019
The opportunities that USC-Aiken afforded me as an Undergrad were really profound. Not only was I able to acquire a work study job; I was also able to become an Intern for a local Congressman. The instructors were very knowledgeable and professional. Many times, I would encounter the very same subject or topic of discussion in the majority or on occasion all of my classes. The food choices were also excellent. There is the option of a buffet that contains everything from comfort food to ice cream to sandwiches and soup. It is really a great deal with flavorful food and comfortable surroundings. The campus is very clean and safe with Security guards that remain very visible. In recent years, the athletic activities have gotten national attention and when the athletic teams are successful, the student body rallies around them. This adds to school spirit which is indicative of attending this particular university. I received a great and complete education from USC-Aiken. This school is Veteran friendly another attribute of a great school in 21st Century America.
Brook
01/30/2019
The University of South Carolina Aiken was initially my college of choice for my undergraduate degree primarily due to its size. I graduated from a rather small high school in a rather small town, so the idea of a college campus that stretched across a city gave me hives. When I visited USC Aiken's campus my senior year, I realized that is large enough to feel like a university while offering a unique intimacy. You will never feel like just a number in a row in an auditorium here, but rather a human person for whom professors genuinely care.
mirakle
12/27/2018
The University of South Carolina-Aiken is a smaller school. I would recommend this school to someone who does not like a lot of people. The professors are intelligent people, but some may not need to be teaching anymore. This school did not turn out to be what I thought it would be. Although, I am going to try to participate more so i can meet nee people. Students ae kind of seperated by race, but we all get along with ine another.
Kalundra
09/06/2018
My overall opinion of my college/university is that it is a pretty good campus. friendly people everywhere, safe outside environment, activities and so much more. This was one of the best decisions I have ever made. I'm able to study for my future while also enjoying my experience on campus with the people and professors around. I highly recommend this school to anyone interested.
Dathan
08/08/2018
It's a great school and they have the best education that I know of. Not that fun because of population size, but it's gotten me through three years.
Kendall
06/29/2018
I love the school and everything it has to offer! It has so many opportunities and different clubs that you can join. There are about 30 people in a class per one teacher which is great for me because the less people the more interaction time that I get to have with my teacher and other classmates as well.
The fall 2020 acceptance rate for University of South Carolina-Aiken is 66%. That means, out of _____ applications received in 2020, _____ students were offered admission.
What should every freshman at your school know before they start?
College is a big transition coming from high school. Continue to study and stay active in school. Meet new people and become acquainted with your professors because they are there to help you succeed. Never give up. Always ask for help if you need it. Do not be to proud to ask for help when needed. Stay focus and do not get too involve with activities that will interfer with you managing your class work.
The kind of person that should attend USC-Aiken is a very out going person with the desire to get involved. Someone that wants to have a one-on-one relationship with their professors would really like this school. A person that likes that small hometown feel would love this University.
What do you brag about most when you tell your friends about your school?
The peole who attend here are out going and friendly. They will help another student in any way possible. Students here love their school and would not trade it for another. The food there is great and also are the dorms.
What kind of person should not attend this school?
I believe that if you attend a university, you should strive for success towards whatever goals that you have. If you don't think positive, have a good attitude towards your school, and don't put fourth the effort that you can, than you should not attend the University of Central Florida.
My school is best known for their dedication and determination. My school works hard to make the students develop career oriented skills before we graduate school and enter the real word. The challenge our inner strength and they bring out the success in us.
What's the most frustrating thing about your school?
The most fruestrating thing about my school was last year when we did not have enough rooms/housing to house all of the students and i was put on a waiting list. Now we have new dorms built so this is no longer a problem, we have more than enough housing to house students.
What's the one thing you wish someone had told you about freshman year?
USC-A does such a good job at Freshman Friday (when Freshman can come and visit the campus and walk around) and orientation that I knew pretty much everything before the first day of class!
Whenever I tell people that I go to USCA, they stop and think that I said USC. It is true that USCA is not a big campus, but it is growing by leaps and bounds. The best thing about USCA is just how not big it is (I don't want to say small because people see that as a bad thing). The teachers, or most of them, will make sure that you learn the material and not just see you as a seat in the class. Also the dorms are amazing and apartment style, not many places have a full kitchen, living room, and bathroom for two people to share! :)
What is the stereotype of students at your school?
The main stereotype that I have heard is that USCA students are all commuters. Meaning they live near the school and go back and forth to class. Making people think that there is nothing here for On-Campus students.
What are the most popular student activities/groups?
There are a ton of Students Activities here at USCA! Anything from helping pick out the next entertainer to come to the school(PUB), Greek Life, Honors Societies, IMPACT(volunteer work), Ducks Unlimited, and a TON more! There is something for everyone! Athletic events are really popular here, especially basketball. We don't have a football team, but that just means that our other sports get more recognition. We also have a great theater program here too,which is a good change to see when you dont want to study anymore. I met my closest friends through dorm life, sadly they weren't my first roommates, but we met through a dorm program and live together the remaining of the years! Greek Life is a good thing to do at USCA if you are staying on campus! You will make so many connections, not to mention life long friends, and you will always have something to do. But there is only a small percent of people in Greek Life, although the majority of those are well known campus leaders.
Most of my professors know me by name which is good when you try and get extra credit on something! My major (Nursing - BSN) is a VERY competitive major but also very prestigious locally and nationally! Even better then the big USC in my opinion! Other majors that are popular are Education, Business and Psychology.
Is the stereotype of students at your school accurate?
Absolutely NOT!! I live on campus and I love every minute of it! The Dorms are the BEST I have seen in the state for public schools! And trust me, I have seen A LOT! There is also always some campus event of program going on during the week. And if you take the time to try Greek Life, you will never be bored!
All students must apply yearly for financial aid. This process starts with the FAFSA.
Though financial aid deadlines vary by school, it is a good idea to apply as soon as possible. For the upcoming school year, you can apply as early as October 1 for the FAFSA. Additional school aid will be dependent on the FAFSA results.
93% of students attending University of South Carolina-Aiken receive some sort of financial aid.
44% were awarded federal grants.63%received federal loans. Many students do also need to apply for additional private student loans.
