Explore South Carolina Colleges
Explore 40 colleges and universities in South Carolina, including 15 public institutions and 25 private schools. Compare tuition costs, acceptance rates, and find your perfect fit.
40
Colleges
15
Public
25
Private
Avg Acceptance Rate
Average acceptance rate for South Carolina colleges
Avg Net Price
After financial aid
Avg In-State Tuition
For public universities
Browse 40 colleges in South Carolina, sorted by ranking and selectivity.
#22 in Public Universities
Clemson, SC
Acceptance
38%
Total Cost
$27,402
SAT
1240–1410
In the shadow of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Clemson ignites your competitive fire with powerhouse engineering, rabid football fandom, and a small-town pulse that turns Tigers loose on the world.
#33 in Political Science
Columbia, SC
Acceptance
60%
Total Cost
$25,912
SAT
1180–1360
South Carolina's flagship stirs Gamecock spirit through top international business training and lively SEC athletics amid Columbia's Southern revival.
#55 in Liberal Arts
Greenville, SC
Acceptance
43%
Total Cost
$71,896
SAT
1260–1430
Nestled by a shimmering lake in exploding Greenville, Furman delivers intimate liberal arts rigor with Southern warmth and real-world engagement baked into every degree.
#68 in Liberal Arts
Spartanburg, SC
Acceptance
52%
Total Cost
$65,980
SAT
1198–1343
Wofford College turns Southern grit into lifelong networks at a compact liberal arts school where everyone knows your name.
#78 in Business
Charleston, SC
Acceptance
23%
Total Cost
$18,061
SAT
1085–1285
Citadel Military College of South Carolina is located in Charleston, SC.
#83 in Public Universities
Charleston, SC
Acceptance
60%
Total Cost
$26,850
SAT
1140–1310
College of Charleston is located in Charleston, SC.
#129 in Liberal Arts
Clinton, SC
Acceptance
68%
Total Cost
$52,569
SAT
980–1200
Faith-infused liberal arts college in small-town South Carolina emphasizing personal growth and close-knit community.
#145 in Public Universities
Rock Hill, SC
Acceptance
79%
Total Cost
$28,300
SAT
1010–1220
Winthrop University is located in Rock Hill, SC.
#160 in Public Universities
Conway, SC
Acceptance
75%
Total Cost
$24,560
SAT
1050–1220
Coastal Carolina University is located in Conway, SC.
#170 in Liberal Arts
Orangeburg, SC
Acceptance
65%
Total Cost
$25,956
SAT
870–1060
Claflin University fosters tight-knit learning in Orangeburg, South Carolina, with deep roots in educating future teachers and performers.
Furman University is the highest-ranked university in South Carolina, ranked #118 nationally. The state is home to several prestigious institutions offering world-class education across various fields.
The average tuition at South Carolina colleges varies by institution type. For public universities, the average in-state tuition is $19,113 per year. Out-of-state students pay an average of $24,311. After financial aid, the average net price is $19,389.
The average acceptance rate for colleges in South Carolina is 76%. However, acceptance rates vary significantly by institution, with some highly selective universities accepting less than 10% of applicants while others maintain open enrollment policies.
To qualify for in-state tuition at South Carolina public universities, you typically need to establish residency for at least 12 months before enrolling. Requirements usually include living in the state, having a South Carolina driver's license, registering to vote in the state, and demonstrating intent to remain. Specific requirements vary by institution, so check with your chosen school's admissions office.
South Carolina is located in the Southeast region of the United States. The Southeast combines Southern hospitality with top-tier research universities and a growing tech sector, offering excellent value and vibrant campus life.
South Carolina offers a range of affordable college options. The average net price after financial aid is $19,389. Public universities in South Carolina provide particularly strong value for in-state residents, with lower tuition rates and access to state financial aid programs.