Graduating from high school and choosing a college is one of the most exhilarating decisions you’ll experience. There’s an unmistakable energy and pride here that’s found in every part of campus.
That’s why, when prospective students visit Upstate, they often choose to come here. It starts with our people, who are waiting to provide you personalized support and guidance through the application process.
A Simple and Supportive Process
Tuition and Aid
Reach for the stars.
We’ll help you get there.
We’ll help you find available grants, scholarships, and financial aid that meets your needs.
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.
Join us for Spartan Saturday
Our Spartan Saturday Open House offers an in-depth look at USC Upstate and an opportunity to meet current and future Spartans. Take a Saturday to tour campus facilities and learn about our degree programs as well as student life options. Faculty and staff will also be available to give you specific details on admission requirements and academic programs. Sessions are available on everything from financial aid to residential life. NOW is the time to register!
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 Freshman
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- $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
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- $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
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- $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
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- $2,000 annual scholarship
- Minimum SAT score of 1100 or ACT score of 22
- Rank in top 30% of high school class
- Minimum GPA of 3.25
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- 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
It’s Great to Be Recognized
We’re proud to be ranked among the best in U.S. News & World Report’s 2025 Best Colleges Rankings, including #2 Top Public Schools in the South and #2 Best Colleges for Veterans. Explore how we’re driving student success, supporting veterans, and making a difference in healthcare through our top-tier nursing program.