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Admissions & Financial Aid

First Time in College

Up for a life-changing adventure.

Graduating high school and choosing a college is one of the most exhilarating decisions you’ll experience. A big part of it comes down to which school just feels right.

This is why, when prospective students visit Upstate, they usually choose to come here. There’s an unmistakable energy and pride that radiates unlike anywhere else. And it starts with our people, who are waiting to provide you personalized support and guidance through the application process.  

A Simple and Supportive Process

Applying for college can be intimidating for any new student. Our experienced, supportive admissions counselors will be there for you every step of the way to answer any questions you have.

Apply for Admission

The initial online application makes it a simple process. After applying and submitting the $45 non-refundable application fee, make sure to check the status of your application and keep up to date on the enrollment checklist to stay on track.

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Enrollment Checklist PDF Icon.png

Attend Freshman Admitted Day

Once you’ve been admitted, you’ll want to attend Freshman Admitted Day on Friday, April 28 to learn everything you’ll need to know before entering USC Upstate as a freshman. Register online or in-person up to and including the day of the event, which is held under the tent at the G.B. Hodge Center PDF icon


Join Us for Orientation

Orientation is an excellent chance for you to be introduced to the USC Upstate experience and get a feel for what living the Up mindset as a part of our community is all about.

AP Credits

Traditionally, students who successfully complete the College Board Advanced Placement Program (AP) in their high schools go on to achieve academic success at the University of South Carolina Upstate. High scores on these tests may result in college credit at Upstate. Students taking AP exams must earn a score of "3" or above in order to receive credit. In many cases, AP test scores higher than "3" result in additional college credit awards. Students planning to attend Upstate should have their AP scores sent to the University (school code 5850) at the time of their testing.

Download the AP Credit Transfer Guide  

Scholarships for Entering Freshmen:

Chancellor Scholars
  • $10,000 annual scholarships for boarding students; $5,000 annually for commuting students
  • Minimum SAT score of 1300 or ACT score of 27
  • Rank in top 10% of high school class
  • Minimum GPA of 3.75
Valedictorian Scholars
  • $10,000 annual scholarship for boarding students; $5,000 annually for commuting students
  • Rank first in their class at time of admission to USC Upstate, or at high school graduation
  • Minimum SAT score of 1000 or ACT score of 21
Provost Scholars
  • $3,000 annual scholarship
  • Minimum SAT score of 1200 or ACT score of 25
  • Rank in top 20% of high school class
  • Minimum GPA of 3.50
Dean Scholars
  • $2,000 annual scholarship
  • Minimum SAT score of 1100 or ACT score of 22
  • Rank in top 30% of high school class
Promise Scholars
  • Up to the full cost of tuition after other aid is applied
  • First time student graduating from a public high school in Spartanburg, Union, or Cherokee County
  • Recipient of SC Life or Palmetto Fellow Scholarship
  • Complete the FAFSA
  • Promise Scholars – click here to apply
  • 100 students will be selected from the applicant pool

Important Resources