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!
$1,500
Award Amount
1
Award
May 1
Deadline
Chappell Smith & Arden, P.A. was founded on the dedication to help injured clients get the justice they deserve. We also want to extend that dedication to students in their pursuit of higher education. We are proud to offer this privately funded scholarship to help students obtain their degrees and build a better future.
All scholarship entries submitted to Chappell Smith & Arden, along with all copyright, trademark and other proprietary rights associated with the submission, become the property of ChappellSmithArden.com. By submitting an entry and the signed application form, you acknowledge that Chappell Smith & Arden will own all rights to publish and promote the content. All entrants also agree that they consent to the use of their name, the school or university they attend, and the use of their likeness (as in a photograph) and prize information.
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$3,000
Award Amount
3
Awards
Jun 1
Deadline
The Epilepsy Reach Foundation members and volunteers are committed to helping those living with epilepsy and their families reach success by providing guidance and support through informative resources, financial assistance for medication and education, and career services for professional development. Our mission is to empower adults and children living with epilepsy in underserved Southeastern U.S. communities by offering aid and support to enable their success.
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$10,000
Award Amount
3
Awards
Feb 15
Deadline
U.S. undergraduate students who are enrolled in a hospitality management program and have a grade point average of 3.0 or higher are eligible for this award. Applicants must attend and be nominated by an American Hotel and Lodging Association (AH&LA) member school.
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$7,500
Award Amount
3
Awards
Dec 11
Deadline
This scholarship is available to incoming freshman students who are attending Clemson University.
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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
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
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
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
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!
Our Scholarships
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$1,500 – I Have a Dream
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$10,000 – Unigo $10K Award
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$1,500 – Sweet and Simple
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$2,500 – Superpower
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$3,000 – All About Education
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$1,500 – Fifth Month Scholarship
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$1,500 – Do-Over
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$1,500 – Flavor of the Month
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$1,500 – Make Me Laugh
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$1,500 – Shout It Out
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$2,000 – Zombie Apocalypse
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$5,000 – Education Matters
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$1,500 – Top Ten List
Written by Dave Moniz
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Edited by Unigo Staff