University of South Carolina-Columbia acceptance rate
University of South Carolina-Columbia has a school-wide acceptance rate of 60%, which makes it moderately selective.
Published tuition & fees: $12,688 in-state, $35,972 out-of-state. But sticker price is rarely what families pay — the net price after aid below is what matters.
SAT & ACT scores for University of South Carolina-Columbia
| Test | Admitted middle 50% |
|---|---|
| SAT Math (mid-50%) | 580–680 |
| SAT Reading/Writing (mid-50%) | 600–680 |
| SAT Total (approx.) | 1180–1360 |
| ACT Composite (mid-50%) | 26–32 |
"Middle 50%" = the range from the 25th to 75th percentile of admitted students. Scoring above the 75th puts you toward the safety end; below the 25th makes it more of a reach.
University of South Carolina-Columbia cost & net price after aid
The "sticker price" almost no one pays. Here is the average net price — what families actually pay per year after grants and scholarships — broken down by household income:
| Household income | Avg. net price after aid |
|---|---|
| Under $30,000 | $12,634/yr |
| $30,001–48,000 | $14,953/yr |
| $48,001–75,000 | $19,859/yr |
| $75,001–110,000 | $24,478/yr |
| $110,001+ | $28,125/yr |
Graduation rate & outcomes
University of South Carolina-Columbia has a graduation rate of 79% and graduates earn a median of $62,177 about 10 years after enrolling. Outcomes are one honest signal of value — especially read next to the net price above.
Frequently asked questions
What is University of South Carolina-Columbia's acceptance rate?
About 60% (school-wide, U.S. Dept. of Education, June 2026) — moderately selective.
How much does University of South Carolina-Columbia cost after aid?
It varies by income. For middle-income families the average net price is about $19,859/year; see the full table above for your bracket.
Is University of South Carolina-Columbia a reach for me?
Depends on your stats vs. the admitted middle-50% range above. Check free →