Built for Students, by Students
Help verify tuition, housing costs, and campus life data
University of South Carolina-Columbia
Explore one of the most distinguished institutions in SC. Your pathway to a brighter future begins here.
Annual Tuition
$12,688
Average Sticker Price
Admission Rate
61.5%
Selectivity Level
Graduation Rate
78.0%
Completion Success
Median Earnings
$62,177
10y Career Outlook
Related Guides & Reviews
In-depth articles about this school and region
University of South Dakota: A GradeToGrad College Guide
Read guide →
Best Nursing Schools in South Carolina: Programs, Tuition & How to Apply
Read guide →
Best Community Colleges in South Carolina: Transfer Rates, Tuition & Programs
Read guide →
Community College vs University: Cost Comparison
Read guide →
About Institution
University of South Carolina-Columbia is a distinguished Public, 4-Year institution located in Columbia, SC. With a competitive tuition profile of $12,688, it remains an attractive choice for ambitious students. A strong graduation rate of 78.0% underscores its academic rigor and effective student support systems.
Admissions Intel
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Acceptance Rate
61.5%
Investment Return
Estimated College ROI Analysis
Total 4-Year Cost
$50,752
Based on sticker tuition
Estimated Payback
1.6 yrs
Time to recoup investment
Annual Earnings Boost
+$32,177
vs. $30k HS diploma baseline
10-Year Net Gain
+$271,018
Cumulative earnings advantage minus total college cost
20-Year Net Gain
+$592,788
Long-term projected return on your education investment
ROI estimates use the BLS national median of $30,000/yr for high school diploma holders as a baseline. Actual results vary based on major, career path, location, and individual circumstances. Median graduate debt at University of South Carolina-Columbia is $21,500.
Student Community
Gender Balance
Ethnic Diversity
Security Audit
Incidents
0
Burglary
0
Theft
0
Assault
0
Robbery
0
Rape
0
Arson
0
Murder
0
Financial Outlook
Total Sticker Price
$12,688
Estimated cost before aid.
Net Price By Income
Debt & Financial Aid
Repayment measured in 2016–17; this federal measure was discontinued.
* Most students receive significant grants and scholarships, reducing the actual cost. Grant data from IPEDS Student Financial Aid survey.
Quick Overview
Faculty Ratio
N/A
Retention
90.7%
Success
78.0%
In-State Cost
$12,688
Age 25+ Students
2.8%
Carnegie Class
R1: Doctoral — Very High Research
Working at 6yr
6,050 students
Living In Columbia
Off-Campus Market Estimator
Studio
$1,036
Monthly Average
1 Bedroom
$1,110
Monthly Average
2 Bedrooms
$1,246
Monthly Average
3 Bedrooms
$
Monthly Average
Data provided by HUD Fair Market Rent (FMR). These estimates assist with financial planning for off-campus housing in the Columbia metropolitan area.