Application FAQ

Application Deadline

The priority deadlines for applications are:

• Fall: August 10
• Spring: December 20

Is there a separate application for scholarship consideration?

No. The application process is simple. All students who apply for freshman or transfer admission to the University are automatically considered for merit (academic) scholarships. USC Upstate offers academic scholarships to high-achieving freshman who have minimum SAT scores of 1100, rank in the top 10% of their class and have a minimum GPA of 3.25. Scholarships are limited, so early application is required. Departmental, talent, and athletic scholarships are awarded separately by the individual departments.

When should I apply for financial aid?

After you apply to USC Upstate, you should apply for financial aid using the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as soon as possible after January 1 for fall semesters. Visit the Office of Financial Aid web page for more information.

What do I do if I have a disability?

If you will need assistance during the academic year because of a temporary or permanent disability, contact the Office of Disability Services at 503-5123 Voice or TDD or by mail: Office of Disability Services, 800 University Way, USC Upstate, Spartanburg, S.C. 29303.

Will I be able to study abroad while attending USC Upstate?

Yes. You may participate in one of USC Upstate’s summer studies abroad in such countries as Spain, Italy, England, France, Germany and Costa Rica. You can get assistance from the Center for International Studies to plan studies abroad any where in the world.

Do I have to live on campus?

All new full-time freshmen under the age of 20 are required to live on campus unless they live in the local area and live with their parents. With a new residence hall, Magnolia House, in addition to its sister hall, Palmetto House, USC Upstate has some of the best freshman housing facilities in the state. Living on campus is the best way to get the most from your USC Upstate experience. Advantages to living on campus include proximity to classes, the library, dining locations, and campus events; opportunities to meet more people and make new friends; and a support system of trained residence hall assistants and other USC Upstate staff. Visit Campus Life for more information regarding housing/campus living.

Is on-campus housing guaranteed for freshmen? Are single rooms available?

Housing is not guaranteed; however, typically students who submit their housing applications by spring can be assured of a housing assignment. Pending availability, single rooms may be requested but are not guaranteed for freshmen.

Am I allowed to bring a car to USC Upstate?

Yes. All students must register their vehicle with Campus Police. There is a registration fee for a parking decal and designated parking areas.

What clubs and organizations can I get involved in at USC Upstate?

With more than 70 clubs and organizations to choose from, USC Upstate students have unlimited opportunities to be involved on campus and in the community. The Office of Student Life believes that one of the most critical areas you can develop while at USC Upstate is leadership skills. For that reason, student life provides programs to support the development of student leaders, provides resource information and increase skills necessary to be an effective student. These programs offer students a chance to learn, interact, and have fun. USC Upstate’s campus activities board provides a full schedule of entertainment options which include comedians, dances, bands, lecturers, hypnotists and other fun activities. For a complete listing of campus clubs and organizations, visit the Campus Life.

What are the average GPA and SAT scores for entering freshman?

The average SAT score is approximately 1017 with an average high school GPA of 3.5.

What is the size of USC Upstate’s student population?

USC Upstate is an ideal size of approximately 5,000 students. We are large enough to offer a wide range of academic and extracurricular offerings found at larger universities, yet small enough to provide personal contact with professors and friends.

How many students are in the freshman class?

The average freshman class numbers approximately 800 students.

What distinguishes USC Upstate from other universities?

USC Upstate offers students a high quality education at a reasonable cost; one-hundred percent accreditation in all professional programs; a variety of programs and organizations while being small enough for students to receive individual attention; and faculty committed to teaching.

Are USC Upstate students successful upon graduation?

Yes! National accreditation in all eligible programs, unique offerings, and well-equipped facilities guarantee a national caliber education, which, in turn leads to high rates of employment upon graduation.