The University of South Carolina offers a generous array of scholarships for international students, which are awarded through the Office of Undergraduate Admissions.
When you apply for admission, you are automatically considered for merit scholarships. These scholarships are only awarded to first-time freshmen entering the fall semester.
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University of South Carolina Scholarships
| Scholarship Name | Annual Value | Four-Year Value | Eligibility & Notes |
| Stamps Scholars Award* | ~$23,610 + tuition reduction to in-state rate + $15,000 enrichment fund | ~$225,000 | One of the university’s top awards for nonresident students; a strong academic record and leadership required. Five awarded annually. |
| McNair Scholars Award* | $22,000 + tuition reduction to in-state rate + $12,000 enrichment fund | >$198,000 | 20 awarded annually to students with exceptional academics and leadership qualities. |
| Horseshoe Scholars Award* | $11,000 + tuition reduction to in-state rate | >$142,000 | Up to 20 awarded annually to top-performing students; part of the Top Scholar program. |
| Provost Scholars Award | Up to $6,000 + tuition reduction to in-state rate | Up to $122,800 | For National Merit Finalists who list USC as first choice. May be combined with another general award. |
| Alumni Scholars Award* | $8,000 + tuition reduction to in-state rate | >$130,000 | Sponsored by the USC Alumni Association; recognizes academic, leadership, and service excellence. Requires Honors College application. |
| Academic Scholars – Elite Award* | $4,000 + tuition reduction to in-state rate | >$114,000 | Awarded to students with top 3% class rank; average SAT 1533 / ACT 35. |
| Academic Scholars – Excellence Award* | $2,000 + tuition reduction to in-state rate | >$106,000 | Average SAT 1517 / ACT 35; top 5% of class. |
| Academic Scholars – Superlative Award* | $500 + tuition reduction to in-state rate | >$100,000 | Average SAT 1430 / ACT 32; top 8% of class. |
| Academic Scholars – Distinction Award* | $500 + tuition reduction | >$68,000 | Average SAT 1370 / ACT 31; top 15% of class. Receives nearly half off nonresident tuition. |
| Academic Scholars – Merit Award* | $500 + tuition reduction | >$44,000 | Average SAT 1313 / ACT 29; top 15% of class. Receives significant tuition reduction. |
| Academic Scholars – Recognition Award* | $500 + tuition reduction | >$24,000 | Average SAT 1240 / ACT 29; top 25% of class. Receives tuition reduction. |
Application Information
- Application Deadline: November 15
- Required Applications:
- General University of South Carolina application
- South Carolina Honors College application (for Stamps, McNair, Horseshoe, and Alumni awards)
- Selection Process:
- Candidates are invited for interviews and participate in the Top Scholar Weekend.
- Awards are based on academic merit, leadership, and personal achievements.
- Qualification: Recipients qualify for in-state tuition rates.
Visit the Award Webpage for Details: https://sc.edu/about/offices_and_divisions/financial_aid/scholarships/scholarships_for_nonresidents/

