About

Public

University Type

575

QS Global Rank

$38,560

Average Living Expenses

Founded in 1801, the University of South Carolina (USC) is a public research university located in Columbia, South Carolina. It is the oldest public university in the state offering over 170 programs in the fields of business, law, management, sciences, and arts. The University of South Carolina acceptance rate is 62%, and it has an enrollment of more than 30,000 students.

The University of South Carolina offers 350+ undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields, including the arts and sciences, business, education, engineering, law, medicine, and nursing. The university is also home to several nationally ranked programs, such as its business school, engineering school, and medical school.

The university's average annual tuition fee for international students is approximately $25,000 - $36,000 (INR 20,81,007 - 29,96,650), and its student-to-faculty ratio is 18:1. USC is also home to the South Carolina Gamecocks, a member of the Southeastern Conference (SEC). The University of South Carolina QS ranking is 551-600 in 2024.

The University of South Carolina is known for its strong academic programs, as well as its vibrant student life and commitment to diversity and inclusion. The university's campus is located in the heart of downtown Columbia and is home to various amenities, including a state-of-the-art library, a student fitness center, and a performing arts center.

Top Reasons to Study in the University of South Carolina

Several reasons add to the popularity of international students' demand to study at the University of South Carolina. Here are some of the top reasons:

  • Excellent academics: USC is a highly-ranked university with a strong academic reputation, offering 300 programs in various fields.
  • Affordability: USC is a public university, so tuition is more affordable than at many private universities, offering various financial aid programs to help students afford their education.
  • Location: USC is located in South Carolina, a beautiful city with a lot to offer students. Columbia is home to various cultural attractions, including museums, theatres, and parks. It is also a major economic center, with various businesses and industries.
  • Strong research: USC is a major research university with a focus on innovation and discovery, home to over 100 research centers and institutes. The university's research has led to significant advances in various fields, including medicine, engineering, and the social sciences.
  • Diversity: USC is a diverse university with students from all over the world. This diversity creates a vibrant and stimulating learning environment, committed to providing a welcoming and inclusive environment for all students.

These reasons are just a glimpse of what you will learn and explore at the University of South Carolina. To know more, click here.


Cost of Studying at University of South Carolina

Average tuition fee

Moderate

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5000+ Students

Availed education loan

3000+ Cr

Loan amount sanctioned

100% Free

Assistance for loan process


Living expenses

Average living expenses (Bachelors)

$52,648

Average living expenses (Masters)

$38,560

Average on-campus living expenses

$14,712

Average off-campus living expenses

$13,230

Admissions at The University of South Carolina

Avg acceptance rate (Bachelors)

61%

Application Fee

$50 - $100


How to Apply at University of South Carolina

The University of South Carolina offers 350+ undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields, including the arts and sciences, business, education, engineering, law, medicine, and nursing. International students must follow these steps to smoothen the application process to USC:

Be an early bird: The University of South Carolina admissions deadlines vary program-wise, and missing them can severely affect your chances of getting in. Hence, thoroughly check the deadlines before applying. Students are advised to apply at least 9 months before the course commencement.

Review the admission requirements for international students: The eligibility criteria for international students vary slightly from domestic students, in terms of GPA, English proficiency, and standardized scores.

Submit your application online: Applicants can apply through the USC Application Portal and the Common Application.

Submit all required supporting documents, including:

  • Official transcripts from all high schools and universities attended.
  • English language proficiency test scores (TOEFL or IELTS).
  • Standardized test scores (SAT, ACT, GRE, or GMAT).
  • A financial statement.
  • Letters of recommendation from teachers and guidance counselors.
  • A personal statement.
  • Additional documents like a copy of your passport and financial statements.

Pay the application fee: The application fee for international students is $100 (INR 8,324).


Documents Required to Apply to University of South Carolina

The University of South Carolina acceptance rate is 62%, which makes it a moderately selective and competitive university to get into. International students must keep the following documents handy to make the application process hassle-free:

UNDERGRADUATE

DOCUMENT

DESCRIPTION

High School Transcripts

Official transcripts, translated into English.

GPA 

3.0

Financial Statements

Showcase your ability to fund your education and other utilities for at least a year.

Standardized Scores

SAT, ACT, IELTS, TOEFL, DUOLINGO, and PTE Scores.

Application Fee

Non-refundable application fee of $100 (INR 8,324).

 

POSTGRADUATE

DOCUMENT

DESCRIPTION

Bachelor’s Degree (US Equivalent)

Official transcripts, translated into English.

GPA 

3.0 (83 - 86%)

Letters of Recommendation

From academic counselors or others.

Statement of Purpose.

Talk about your extracurriculars and how you are competent to study at USC.

Resume or CV

Talk about your work experience, certifications, and other achievements.

Standardized Scores

GRE, GMAT, IELTS, and TOEFL Scores.

Application Fee

Non-refundable application fee of $100 (INR 8,324).


Exams Accepted By University of South Carolina

The University of South Carolina accepts the following English proficiency and standardized test scores from international students:

  • TOEFL: 80
  • IELTS: 6.5
  • PTE Academic: 58
  • Duolingo: 115
  • SAT: 1250 - 1400
  • ACT: 28 - 32
  • GRE/GMAT: Score requirements vary program-wise.

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Rankings for The University of South Carolina

US News Ranking

#124

US World and News Report

The World University Rankings

#401-500

The World University Rankings

QS World University Rankings

#575

QS World University Rankings


More rankings for this university

The University of South Carolina (USC) is a prestigious public research university in Columbia, South Carolina. Renowned for its academic excellence, USC offers a diverse range of programs across various disciplines, including business, law, and healthcare. Its vibrant campus life and strong emphasis on community engagement create a dynamic learning environment. USC's commitment to research and innovation continues to elevate its standing as a leading institution in the Southeast.

In the QS World University Rankings 2024, the University of South Carolina secured a position at 575, highlighting its global presence and recognition among leading institutions. Concurrently, as per the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2024, USC was placed within the range of 501-600 worldwide, showcasing its consistent standing in the global academic landscape. Furthermore, within the US News & World Report Global Universities Rankings 2024, the University of South Carolina attained the 115th spot, emphasising its strengths across various disciplines and its dedication to academic excellence on an international scale. 

Enlisted below are the various global rankings for the University of South Carolina from 2022-24:

Ranking Type

2022

2023

2024

QS - World University Rankings

601-650

701-750

575

THE (Times Higher Education) University Rankings 

401-500

501-600

501-600

US News & World Report - Global Universities 

330

346

115

University of South Carolina Course Rankings

The University of South Carolina (USC) boasts an extensive selection of undergraduate and graduate programs spanning diverse fields such as business, engineering, education, law, medicine, and the arts. Catering to a student body exceeding 27,000, USC cultivates a bustling and lively campus environment, fostering an ideal setting for academic exploration and personal development. With its multifaceted educational offerings and a robust community, USC stands as an enriching hub where students have the opportunity to not only learn but also thrive and evolve, nurturing their passions and pursuits within a vibrant collegiate atmosphere.

USC Course Rankings by QS 2021-23:

Course

2021

2022

2023

Medicine

301-350

301-350

301-350

Pharmacy & Pharmacology 

201-250

251-300

NA

Engineering and Technology

368

401-450

451-500

Nursing

NA

101-150

NA

Biological Science

501-550

451-500

451-500

Mechanical, Aeronautical & Manufacturing Engineering

301-350

301-350

351-400

Global MBA

151-200

151-200

151-200

Physics and Astronomy 

451-500

451-500

551-600

Mathematics

451-500

401-450

451-500

Accounting & Finance

201-250

201-250

201-250

USC Course Rankings by Times Higher Education 2021-23

Course

2021

2022

2023

PG Business and Economics

251-300

201-250

251-300

Clinical and Health

301-400

301-400

301-400

Engineering

201-250

251-300

301-400

Art and Humanities

301-400

301-400

301-400

Law

93

101-125

176-200

Psychology

301-400

301-400

401-500

Arts & Humanities

301-400

301-400

401-500

Life Sciences

401-500

401-500

401-500

USC Course Rankings by U.S News and World Report 2021-23

Course

2021

2022

2023

Graduate Nursing

NA

NA

33

Electrical Engineering 

97

97

90

Mechanical Engineering

94

83

85

Civil Engineering

75

84

89

Biomedical Engineering

93

89

88

Chemical Engineering

66

60

61

Computer Engineering

97

97

89

Graduate Medical

90

76

71

Graduate Law

96

96

84

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International Students

% of international students in the university

5

Total International Students in the university

1793


Alumni at University of South Carolina

The University of South Carolina has a long and distinguished history, and its 300,000+ alumni have made significant contributions in many fields. Some of the notable alumni of the university are:

  • Leeza Gibbons, television personality.
  • Marcus Lattimore, football player.
  • Nikki Haley, former governor of South Carolina and U.S.
  • Dick Harpootlian, lawyer and politician.
  • Joel Osteen, pastor.
  • Chazwick Bundick, musician.
  • Maya Moore, basketball player.

Would you want to study at something other than such an illustrious university? Connect with Yocket to get tips on acing your TOEFL and SATs, understand the application process, know about the scholarships, and get all the assistance from start to finish!

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Reviews for University of South Carolina

Campus life

Number of campuses the university has
8

Campus locations
South Carolina

View on Google Earth


Transportation in the city

Here are the different modes of transportation available in Columbia City, South Carolina:

  • Public transportation: The Central Midlands Regional Transit Authority (COMET) operates a bus system that serves the Columbia metropolitan area. Fares start at $2 for a one-way trip. The COMET also operates the Soda Cap Connector, which is a free shuttle that runs between downtown Columbia and the Vista entertainment district.
  • Ride-hailing: Ride-hailing services such as Uber and Lyft are also available in Columbia. Rates vary depending on the distance traveled.
  • DART: This service provides door-to-door transportation for people with disabilities who are unable to use public transportation.
  • Bicycle: Columbia has a growing network of bike lanes and trails, making it a great city for biking. You can rent bicycles from several different shops in the city.

Services offered by the university

Here are some of the specific services offered by the University of South Carolina in detail:

  • Academic advising: The Office of Academic Advising provides students with individual advising sessions, group advising sessions, and online advising resources.
  • Career services: The Career Center offers students various services, including career counseling, job search assistance, and resume workshops.
  • Financial aid: The Office of Financial Aid provides students with information about financial aid options, helps students apply for financial aid, and monitors students' financial aid awards.
  • Health services: Student Health Services offers students various medical, dental, and mental health services, including primary care, urgent care, and mental health counseling.
  • Recreation: The University of South Carolina offers various recreation options, including intramural sports, a gym, and a recreation center.

These are some basic services provided by the University of South Carolina. However, some special services are also offered for international students, the disabled, and individuals belonging to the LGBTQ+ community.


Student life at University of South Carolina

With an array of activities, clubs, and cultural events offered by USC, you are sure to feel involved. Let us look at the factors that contribute to the vibrancy of the student life at the University of South Carolina:

  • Student Organizations: There are over 400 student organizations on campus, so there is something for everyone. Whether you are interested in Greek life, athletics, the arts, or simply making new friends, you will find a place to belong at USC.
  • Athletics: The Gamecocks compete in the Southeastern Conference (SEC), and they have won national championships in football, basketball, and baseball. The Colonial Life Arena is home to the USC Gamecocks basketball team and hosts concerts and other events throughout the year.
  • Explore: Horseshoe is the heart of campus and is home to many of the university's most iconic landmarks, and is also a popular spot for students to relax, study, and meet up with friends.
  • Go Outdoors: The University of South Carolina is also home to several beautiful outdoor spaces, including the Horseshoe Garden, the Botanical Garden, and the Riverwalk. These are great places to relax, take a walk, or have a picnic

These are just a few factors that make the University of South Carolina's student life so happening. If you go there, you will feel involved and get various opportunities to shine as an individual.


On campus accomodation at University of South Carolina

The University of South Carolina offers various on-campus housing options for students, including residence halls, apartments, and suites.

  • Residence halls are the most common type of on-campus housing at USC. They offer various room types, including singles, doubles, triples, and quads. Residence halls also have shared bathrooms, laundry facilities, and common areas.
  • Apartments offer more privacy than residence halls, as each apartment has its own kitchen and bathroom. Apartments are also usually larger than residence hall rooms.
  • Suites are a hybrid of residence halls and apartments. They offer the privacy of an apartment, but they also have shared common areas. They are larger than residence hall rooms, but smaller than apartments.

In addition to these three main types of on-campus housing, USC also offers special housing options, such as:

  • Living-learning communities are designed to provide students with a more immersive academic experience. These communities are usually themed around a particular academic discipline or interest area.
  • International student housing is available for students who are not native English speakers. This housing is designed to help international students adjust to life in the United States and improve their English language skills.

Cost: The cost of on-campus housing at USC varies depending on the type of housing and the number of roommates. For example, the cost of a single room in a residence hall ranges from $2,900 (INR 2,41,396) to $4,500 (INR 3,74,581) per semester. The cost of an apartment ranges from $3,500 (INR 2,91,341) to $5,500 (INR 4,57,821) per semester.

To know about how and when to apply for on-campus housing, students must visit the USC Housing website.

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