University of South Carolina-Columbia
The Vibe Check
The University of South Carolina-Columbia pulses with a vibrant, spirited energy that blends Southern hospitality with big-time college football culture. Walking through the historic Horseshoe, you feel a deep sense of tradition mixed with modern ambition and a welcoming, community-focused atmosphere.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
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⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
USC-Columbia is a powerhouse in business and international studies, anchored by the prestigious Darla Moore School of Business. Students benefit from a strong emphasis on undergraduate research and hands-on learning opportunities across diverse fields like health sciences and engineering.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Columbia
Columbia offers a lively downtown scene with trendy restaurants, breweries, and the famous Vista district, all within walking distance of campus. Students enjoy cheering on the Gamecocks at Williams-Brice Stadium, exploring the Congaree National Park, and attending festivals like the Soda City Market.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($62,177):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The campus has a visible police presence and well-lit pathways, though students should remain aware of their surroundings, especially in the city's downtown edges. Columbia is a mid-sized city with typical urban safety considerations, but the campus itself is generally considered safe with active safety programs.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Prestigious business and international programs with a global focus.
- ✓ Vibrant campus spirit centered around SEC football and school pride.
- ✓ Excellent location in a growing capital city with good internship opportunities.
- ✓ Strong alumni network that provides career support across the country.
Cons
- ✗ Out-of-state tuition is significantly higher than in-state rates.
- ✗ Large class sizes in introductory courses can feel impersonal.
- ✗ The urban setting can present some safety considerations beyond campus.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
USC-Columbia is widely known for its top-ranked Darla Moore School of Business and its highly regarded international MBA programs. It is also recognized for its passionate student body, major college football culture within the SEC, and its strong programs in health professions and communications.
With an acceptance rate of 61.49%, USC-Columbia is considered moderately selective. While not as competitive as some elite private universities, it has a holistic admissions process. The middle 50% of admitted students typically have an SAT score between 1180 and 1380, and a strong high school GPA is important for consideration.
Campus life is energetic and social, heavily influenced by school spirit and athletics. Students can choose from hundreds of student organizations, enjoy the scenic Horseshoe, and take advantage of the university's location in the state capital. Greek life is present but not dominant over the overall campus culture.
For in-state students, the ROI is excellent, with a 10-year median earnings of $62,177 against a lower tuition cost. For out-of-state students, the value depends on the major, but the strong alumni network and high-earning business and engineering programs can justify the investment over time.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Public
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 29,034
- In-State Tuition $12,688
- Out-of-State $34,934
- Zip Code 29208
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
For in-state students, USC offers a strong value proposition with a relatively low tuition and high median earnings post-graduation. Out-of-state students face a higher cost, but the investment can be worthwhile due to the university's strong alumni network and the high earning potential of its graduates.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.