Explore South Carolina Colleges
Colleges in South Carolina
Explore 39 colleges and universities in South Carolina, including 14 public institutions and 25 private schools. Compare tuition costs, acceptance rates, and find your perfect fit.
39
Total Colleges
14
Public
25
Private
South Carolina at a Glance
Avg Acceptance Rate
5914%
Average acceptance rate for South Carolina colleges
Avg Net Price
$19,395.579
After financial aid
Avg In-State Tuition
$19,441.487
For public universities
South Carolina Colleges Directory
Browse 39 colleges in South Carolina, sorted by ranking and selectivity.
Clemson, SC•Public
38%
Acceptance Rate$27,402/yr
1240-1410
86%
"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."
Columbia, SC•Public
60%
Acceptance Rate$25,912/yr
1180-1360
78%
"South Carolina's flagship stirs Gamecock spirit through top international business training and lively SEC athletics amid Columbia's Southern revival."
Greenville, SC•Private
43%
Acceptance Rate$71,896/yr
1260-1430
82%
"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."
Spartanburg, SC•Private
52%
Acceptance Rate$65,980/yr
1198-1343
80%
"Wofford College turns Southern grit into lifelong networks at a compact liberal arts school where everyone knows your name."
Charleston, SC•Public
23%
Acceptance Rate$18,061/yr
1085-1285
76%
"Citadel Military College of South Carolina is located in Charleston, SC."
Charleston, SC•Public
60%
Acceptance Rate$26,850/yr
1140-1310
67%
"College of Charleston is located in Charleston, SC."
Clinton, SC•Private
68%
Acceptance Rate$52,569/yr
980-1200
66%
"Faith-infused liberal arts college in small-town South Carolina emphasizing personal growth and close-knit community."
Orangeburg, SC•Private
65%
Acceptance Rate$25,956/yr
870-1060
58%
"Claflin University fosters tight-knit learning in Orangeburg, South Carolina, with deep roots in educating future teachers and performers."
Columbia, SC•Private
73%
Acceptance Rate$21,124/yr
781-941
5%
"South Carolina's oldest HBCU, founded in 1870 by the AME Church in post-Civil War Columbia."
Bluffton, SC•Public
73%
Acceptance Rate$20,874/yr
980-1150
38%
"University of South Carolina Beaufort is located in Bluffton, SC."
Spartanburg, SC•Private
68%
Acceptance Rate$34,890/yr
1010-1250
52%
"Converse University is located in Spartanburg, SC."
Greenville, SC•Private
87%
Acceptance Rate$29,501/yr
1070-1310
69%
"Bob Jones University is located in Greenville, SC."
Charleston, SC•Public
N/A
Acceptance Rate$15,622/yr
N/A
97%
"Medical University of South Carolina is located in Charleston, SC."
Frequently Asked Questions About South Carolina Colleges
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 $19,441 per year. Out-of-state students pay an average of $24,627. After financial aid, the average net price is $19,396.
The average acceptance rate for colleges in South Carolina is 59%. 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 $19,396. Public universities in South Carolina provide particularly strong value for in-state residents, with lower tuition rates and access to state financial aid programs.
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