First-year Admissions
Graduating from high school and choosing the right college is one of the most exciting times in your life. At USC Upstate, we make the first-year admissions process simple and supportive, so you can focus on your future.
There’s an unmistakable energy and pride here — it’s part of what it means to be a Spartan. From the moment you connect with us, our admissions team is ready to provide personalized guidance, from completing your application to exploring scholarships and taking your next steps toward college success.
That’s why so many high school students who visit USC Upstate choose to call it home.
A Simple and Supportive Process
Apply for Admission Today for Free!
College Applications Days are organized through South Carolina high schools from late August to early December. During this time, South Carolina high school students can apply to USC Upstate for free!
Visit USC Upstate this fall!
Future Spartans, this is your chance to experience campus life firsthand. Join us for select Friday and Saturday visit days to tour campus, meet faculty, and see yourself at USC Upstate.
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
How to pay for college
We’ll help you find available grants, scholarships, and financial aid that meets your needs. Scholarships available for entering freshman include:
- Chancellor Scholars
- Valedictorian Scholars
- Provost Scholars
- Dean Scholars
- Promise Scholars
- Meeting Street Scholars
- USC System Scholarship
Visit the Financial Aid and Student Scholarships pages for more information.