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✔️ Edited by Unigo Staff

When it comes to paying for college, many South Carolina students may feel uncertain about how to manage the costs. Fortunately, if you are a resident of the Palmetto State, there are a good number of scholarships and grants available that can help make college more affordable.

South Carolina, known for its historic cities, beautiful beaches, and southern charm, is home to esteemed colleges and universities including the University of South Carolina (USC), Clemson University, College of Charleston, Coastal Carolina University, and Furman University – just to name a few. Whether you are aiming to study at a large public research university, a small private liberal arts college, or one of South Carolina’s 15 technical colleges, there are financial aid opportunities to make higher education more accessible.

As of 2024, over 215,000 students are enrolled in South Carolina's colleges and universities. If you are hoping to be one of them, these scholarships can help reduce the burden of tuition, fees, and other educational expenses like books and housing!

List of South Carolina Scholarships for College

Steven G. King Play Environments Scholarship

$5,000 Award Amount

1 Award

Feb 1 Deadline

This scholarship is open to international and U.S. students who are in their final two years of undergraduate study or are in graduate programs at a LAAB-accredited institution. Students must be studying landscape architecture with a demonstrated interest and aptitude in the design of play environments.

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AIST Southeast Member Chapter Gene Suave Scholarship

$3,500 Award Amount

1 Award

Apr 30 Deadline

This scholarship is available for U.S. high school seniors and undergraduate students in the AIST Southeastern Chapter (Southern Virginia, Eastern Tennessee, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia and Florida) who are planning to major in engineering and pursue a career in iron and steel technology. Applicants must be AIST members or dependents of AIST members.

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Horatio Alger South Carolina Scholarship

$10,000 Award Amount

8 Awards

Oct 25 Deadline

This scholarship is available for high school seniors in South Carolina who have unmet financial need and a grade point average of 2.0 or higher.

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ASHRAE Region IV James R. Bullock, Jr. Scholarship

$5,000 Award Amount

1 Award

Dec 1 Deadline

This scholarship is available to U.S. and international undergraduate students who attend a school within the geographic boundaries of ASHRAE's Region IV (NC, SC, GA), or students who have graduated from a high school in Region IV. Applicants must be majoring in mechanical or architectural engineering and plan to pursue a career in the heating, ventilating, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVAC&R) profession.

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Marjorie Rushford (South Carolina) Endowment Scholarship

$750 Award Amount

1 Award

Feb 1 Deadline

This scholarship is open to international and U.S. undergraduate and graduate students who reside in South Carolina and graduated (or will graduate) from a South Carolina high school. Students must have a grade point average of 3.0 or higher.

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University of South Carolina Upstate Valedictorian Scholarships

$10,000 Award Amount

10,000 Awards

Feb 1 Deadline

Each year, University of South Carolina Upstate awards Valedictorian Scholarships of $10,000 (for boarding students) and $5000 (for commuting students) who are ranked first in their class at the time of admission and have minimum SAT score of 1000 or ACT score of 23. Click to learn more and apply today!

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Safe Adolescent Driving Scholarship

$1,000 Award Amount

1 Award

Dec 31 Deadline

Applicants must be currently enrolled in college, graduate school, or be a GED holder who is about to attend a college within the United States are eligible. Applicants must show good academic standing by holding a GPA of 3.0 or higher.

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Bellarmine University Out-of-State Grant

$6,000 Award Amount

3 Awards

Feb 1 Deadline

U.S. incoming freshmen who are not residents of Kentucky and demonstrate financial need are eligible for this award. Students must attend Bellarmine University in Kentucky.

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Simon Youth Foundation Community Scholarship Program

$10,000 Award Amount

1 Award

Feb 17 Deadline

This scholarship is available for U.S. high school seniors who reside within 50 miles of a Simon® property. Students must plan to enroll full time in an accredited two- or four-year college, university, or vocational/technical school in the upcoming fall semester, and must demonstrate academic promise and financial need.

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South Carolina Tuition Grants Program

$3,600 Award Amount

1 Award

Jun 30 Deadline

This award is available to South Carolina resident undergraduate students who are attending a South Carolina Independent college or university. The student must demonstrate financial need and satisfy the following requirements: an incoming freshmen must graduate in the top 75% of your high school graduating class or score at least 900 on the SAT Test (Math & Critical Reading Sections Only) or 19 Composite on the ACT Test or graduate from high school with a GPA of at least 2.00.

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South Carolina Palmetto Fellows Scholarship Program

$29,200 Award Amount

1 Award

Sep 30 Deadline

This scholarship is available for South Carolina resident high school seniors who are planning to attend an eligible South Carolina institution. Students must have a grade point average of 3.5 or higher and an SAT score of 1200 or higher or an ACT score of 27 or higher, and rank in the top six percent of their class; students may also qualify with a grade point average of 4.0 or higher and an SAT score of 1400 or higher or an ACT score of 32 or higher.

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South Carolina Need-based Grant Program

$7,500 Award Amount

26,317 Awards

Sep 30 Deadline

This award is for U.S. students who are residents of South Carolina and plan to enroll at an eligible S.C. public institution. The student must demonstrate financial need and be enrolled in their first associate, baccalaureate, or professional degree program.

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KASF Southern Region Scholarship

$5,000 Award Amount

1 Award

Jun 30 Deadline

This scholarship is available for Korean-American students who are currently enrolled as a high school junior or senior, as an undergraduate, or as a graduate student. Applicants must reside in one of the following states: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, or Tennessee.

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Porter Fleming Literary Competition

$12,000 Award Amount

12 Awards

Feb 10 Deadline

This is a writing contest for residents of Tennessee, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, South Carolina, and North Carolina. To enter, students may submit their work in one of four categories: fiction, poetry, nonfiction or drama. Applicants should review the website for the requirements to enter their specific writing category.

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Linda Moore Endowment Scholarship

$1,050 Award Amount

1 Award

Feb 1 Deadline

This award is available to U.S. and international undergraduate and graduate students who are reside in an eligible Southern state. Applicants must major in nursing and have a grade point average of 3.0 or higher.

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Chris Ebbers Scholarship

$500 Award Amount

2 Awards

Feb 1 Deadline

This award is available for U.S. college sophomores and/or graduate students who are residents of South Carolina and who are currently attending a college/university in South Carolina. Students must be members of the American Occupational Therapy Association and be pursing a career in occupational therapy.

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Becca's Closet Spirit of Generosity Scholarship

$2,000 Award Amount

1 Award

Mar 29 Deadline

Rebecca was a passionate, bright, fun-loving young woman who loved being with her friends and felt that no one should miss a high school event because they couldn’t afford to be there. She saw the inequity in the situation and sought to change things. During the Spring of her sophomore year, Becca singlehandedly collected and donated over 250 formal dresses and helped hundreds of girls across South Florida attend their High School proms in style. To keep Becca's dream alive, countless dedicated people throughout the United States have joined forces to provide opportunities for those who seek them. Although the core mission of Becca's Closet, located in the Festival Marketplace in Pompano Beach, FL, was to collect and distribute dresses to high school girls with financial need, our goals have expanded to offer additional opportunities for deserving young people. In the spirit of Rebecca's visions and aspirations, our foundation raises funds to award post-secondary educational scholarships recognizing the exemplary efforts of young men and women nationwide who demonstrate Becca's spirit of generosity in their own communities.

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Furman University John D. Hollingsworth Scholarship

$700,000 Award Amount

20 Awards

Feb 15 Deadline

This scholarship is available for South Carolina high school seniors who plan to attend Furman University. Students must demonstrate high academic achievement and a strong commitment to civic leadership and community service.

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Sherman & Nancy Reece (South Carolina) Endowment Scholarship

$1,500 Award Amount

1 Award

Feb 1 Deadline

This award is for U.S. and international undergraduate and graduate students with a grade point average of 3.0. The student must be a resident of South Carolina and graduate from a South Carolina high school. Click here to learn more about how to apply!

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SC LIFE Scholarship at Four-Year Institutions

$20,000 Award Amount

7,644 Awards

Feb 1 Deadline

This scholarship is available for South Carolina high school seniors who plan to attend an eligible South Carolina four-year institution. Students must have a grade point average of 3.0 or higher, and a score of 1100 or higher on the SAT (or the equivalent score of 24 or higher on the ACT) or rank in the top 30 percent of their graduating class.

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SC LIFE Scholarship at Two-Year Institutions

$10,572 Award Amount

3,491 Awards

Feb 1 Deadline

This scholarship is available for South Carolina high school seniors who are planning to attend an eligible South Carolina college. Students must have a grade point average of 3.0 or higher.

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LITA/LSSI Minority Scholarship in Library and Information Technology

$2,500 Award Amount

1 Award

Mar 1 Deadline

U.S. and Canadian citizens who will have earned no more than 12 hours towards a Master of Library Science degree by June of the award year are eligible for this award. Students must be members of a principal minority group; attend an ALA-accredited school; and plan to enter the library automation field.

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Fourth Circuit High School Essay Contest

$4,500 Award Amount

3 Awards

Jun 15 Deadline

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit is seeking submissions for its essay contest. The contest is open to all students currently in grades 9 through 12 from Maryland, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, and West Virginia. Students are invited to consider and share their thoughts on the question: "Is the Fourteenth Amendment's Equal Protection Clause sufficient to secure the rights of all citizens, or is the ERA necessary to promote gender equality?

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Korean American Scholarship Foundation-Southern Regional Chapter

$5,000 Award Amount

1 Award

Jun 30 Deadline

The Korean American Scholarship Foundation (KASF) – Southern Regional Chapter (SRC) is pleased to announce a scholarship program in honor and recognition of 1.6 million American Veterans who served in the Korean War during the Korean War era (June 25, 1950–January 31, 1955). These men and women answered the call to fight for a country and people they never knew and never met. More than 54,000 Americans died and 103,000 were wounded. To express our gratitude to these veterans for their sacrifices, KASF-SRC will offer their descendants an opportunity to apply for a scholarship. KASF-SRC scholarship program will recognize outstanding students who have demonstrated outstanding talents and potential for success.

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Furman University Wylie Math Scholarship

$15,000 Award Amount

1 Award

Jan 15 Deadline

The Wylie Scholarships in Mathematics are awarded to incoming freshmen that have demonstrated outstanding mathematical ability and an interest in pursuing the study of mathematics in college. These scholarships, which are worth up to $15,000 per year, are renewable based on completion of specific academic requirements and on participation in Furman's mathematics program. To be eligible for a Wylie Scholarship, a student must have a combined SAT score of at least 1350 or an ACT score of at least 31.

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Cost of College in South Carolina

Before diving into the various grants and scholarships available, it is important to get a sense of what it costs to attend college in South Carolina. For in-state students attending the University of South Carolina (USC), the 2024-25 tuition and fees will range from $12,688 to $16,544, depending on your program of study. Non-residents can expect to pay up to $34,934 annually.

At Clemson University, another top public institution, in-state tuition is $15,558 per year, while out-of-state students pay upwards of $38,550. Additionally, many students may also need to consider housing, meal plans, and other related costs, but fortunately, scholarships and grants can make a big difference.

For students considering private schools like Furman University or Wofford College, tuition can exceed $55,000 per year, but South Carolina offers a range of grants and scholarships that can help cover these expenses.

Here’s a breakdown of some key scholarships and grants available to South Carolina students:

South Carolina State-Funded Scholarships and Grants

Aerial view of historic capitol building surrounded by modern skyscrapers.

South Carolina provides several state-funded scholarships and grants aimed at helping residents better afford their college education. To qualify for most state aid programs, students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) Here are a few of the most popular programs and options:

South Carolina LIFE Scholarship

The South Carolina LIFE Scholarship is a merit-based award available to students who maintain strong academic performance in high school. To qualify, students must meet at least two (2) of these requirements – 1) graduate with at least a 3.0 GPA, 2) have SAT scores of at least 1100 or ACT score of at least 22, and 3) rank in the top 30% of their graduating high school class. This LIFE scholarship offers up to $5,000 annually for attendance at an eligible South Carolina college or university.

Palmetto Fellows Scholarship

One of the most prestigious scholarships in South Carolina, the Palmetto Fellows Scholarship is a merit-based scholarship awarded to high-achieving students who demonstrate academic excellence in high school. The award offers up to $6,700 in the first year and up to $7,500 in subsequent years. To qualify for the Palmetto Fellows Scholarship, students must have a 3.5 GPA, SAT scores of at least 1200 or ACT scores of 25 or over, and rank in the top 6% of their high school class in either grades 10, 11, or 12. Alternatively, students with a 4.0 GPA and SAT scores of at least 1400 or ACT scores of 31 or higher, can also qualify. Recipients must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 to continue receiving the scholarship.

South Carolina HOPE Scholarship

Designed for first-year students, the South Carolina HOPE Scholarship (SC HOPE) is available to students attending a four-year public or private college or university in South Carolina. The scholarship provides awards of up to $2,800 and is intended for students who do not meet the eligibility requirements for the LIFE or Palmetto Fellows scholarships but still demonstrate academic potential. To continue to qualify for the SC Scholarship, recipients must maintain a 3.0 GPA.

South Carolina Need-Based Grant

The South Carolina Need-Based Grant is available to South Carolina residents with documented financial need who attend an eligible public or private college or university in South Carolina. Award amounts vary based on financial need and the availability of funds, with eligible students receiving up to $3,500 per year.

Lottery Tuition Assistance Program

The South Carolina Lottery Tuition Assistance Program (LTAP) provides financial assistance to residents of South Carolina attending two-year public or independent colleges. Eligible students can receive $80 per credit hour toward tuition costs for the fall, spring, and summer terms, with the exact amount determined by their institution. The program considers federal grants and the South Carolina Need-Based Grant first when calculating the award.

Each student’s award amount may vary by term, based on the number of eligible recipients and available funding. To qualify for the Lottery Tuition Assistance, students must meet several requirements, including filing the FAFSA, being a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen, and a legal resident of South Carolina. Additionally, students must be enrolled in at least six (6) credit hours as degree-seeking students, maintain satisfactory academic progress, and not be recipients of other major state scholarships such as the HOPE, LIFE, or Palmetto Fellows Scholarships. Eligible institutions for the program include all South Carolina technical colleges, several USC campuses, and Spartanburg Methodist College.

South Carolina Scholarships for Adult Learners

Stunning sunset behind a modern cable-stayed bridge over calm waters.

South Carolina is committed to lifelong learning, offering adults access to higher education while fostering personal and intellectual growth. Here are a few if the scholarships and grants available to adult learners:

Free Tuition for Residents Over 60

South Carolina offers a free tuition program for residents aged 60 and older, allowing them to attend public colleges and universities without paying tuition. This opportunity is available on a space-available basis, Eligible students can enroll in classes without tuition costs, provided they meet the institution’s admission and academic requirements.

SC-WINS Scholarship

The SC-WINS Scholarship is a state-funded initiative aimed at addressing workforce shortages by providing financial support to students attending any of South Carolina’s 15 technical colleges. This scholarship acts as a supplement to the Lottery Tuition Assistance Program (LTAP), covering any remaining tuition and mandatory fees after all other scholarships and grants have been applied.

Federal Grants for South Carolina Students

South Carolina students are also eligible for federal grants, such as the Pell Grant, which provides up to $7,395 for the 2024-25 academic year. Additionally, students from low-income households may also qualify for the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG), which can provide between $100 and $4,000 annually. Both federal grants are based on financial need and require the completion of the FAFSA.

Institutional Scholarships at South Carolina Colleges and Universities

Vibrant urban riverwalk with modern buildings and a pedestrian bridge at sunset.

Many South Carolina colleges and universities offer institutional grants and scholarships to help students reduce the cost of tuition. These awards are often based on academic merit, financial need, or both. Below are just a few examples:

University of South Carolina Gamecock Guarantee

The Gamecock Guarantee is a need-based grant available to in-state residents who are first-generation college students. It covers the cost of tuition and fees for up to four years, provided students maintain satisfactory academic progress. The Gamecock Guarantee is designed to ensure students can pursue their education with confidence, providing coverage for tuition and fees for up to four years to attend the University of South Carolina.

This initiative not only supports financial needs but also creates a supportive community through a network of academic services and programs aimed at enhancing the overall college experience. It is important to note the guarantee does not cover room and board, however, many students find the combined support from the Gamecock Guarantee and other financial aid significantly reduces their out-of-pocket expenses.

Clemson University National Scholars Program

The National Scholars Program at Clemson University offers scholarships to new students who demonstrate extraordinary academic achievement. This merit-based award can cover up to full tuition, fees, and room and board for four years.

College of Charleston Merit Scholarships

The College of Charleston offers various merit and need-based scholarships, including the Merit Scholarship. You will automatically be considered for the Merit Scholarship when you apply as a first-year student to College of Charleston.

Private Scholarships for South Carolina Students

In addition to state and federal financial aid as well as institutional scholarships and grants, there are many private scholarships available to South Carolina students. These awards are funded by businesses, private foundations, houses of worship, and non-profit organizations:

South Carolina State Fair Scholarship

The South Carolina State Fair Scholarship provides up to $10,000 over four years to students who demonstrate academic excellence and community involvement. Applicants must be South Carolina residents and plan to attend an accredited college or university in the state. You will need to maintain a 3.0 GPA to continue receiving awards. The scholarship is competitive and merit based.

Watson-Brown Foundation Scholarship

The Watson-Brown Foundation Scholarship is available to high school seniors from select counties in South Carolina and Georgia. The scholarship provides up to $3,000 per semester and is renewable for up to four years.

Harry Hampton Fund Scholarship

The Harry Hampton Fund Scholarship aims to promote higher education in natural resources within South Carolina. This prestigious scholarship awards $5,000 annually to a South Carolina resident pursuing a degree at an eligible public or private college or university in the state, focusing on majors such as wildlife biology, fisheries biology, forestry, marine science, environmental science, or related fields.

The selection process is extremely competitive, involving detailed screening and interviews. To maintain this scholarship, you will need to maintain a 2.5 GPA at minimum.

Applying for Scholarships in South Carolina: Tips for Success

Sunset view of a charming street with historic buildings and a palm tree.

Applying for and being awarded grants and scholarships takes time and effort, but following a few key steps can improve your chances:

Complete the FAFSA early: Many scholarships and grants are need-based, and applying early increases your chances of receiving aid. You will need to submit a FAFSA to be considered for all South Carolina state grants and scholarships, federal grants, and many institutional grants and scholarships.

Stay organized: Keep a list of deadlines, requirements, and necessary materials for each scholarship you apply to.

Write a compelling personal essay: Highlight your academic achievements, goals, and passion for learning.

Seek strong letters of recommendation: Ask for recommendations from teachers, mentors, or employers who know you well. Do this early as many of your peers are likely also seeking these recommendation letters.

Your Own Backyard: Many scholarships are offered by local organizations, churches, and businesses right in your community, so don’t overlook these opportunities!

By taking advantage of these South Carolina scholarships, you can make your college education more affordable and focus on achieving your goals!