The University of South Carolina (UofSC) has officially opened applications for its 2026 Scholarship programs, inviting ambitious international students to apply for merit-based scholarships that reward academic excellence and leadership potential. These awards, managed by the Office of Undergraduate Admissions, are specifically designed for non–South Carolina resident freshmen enrolling in the Fall 2026 semester.
An Inclusive System of Merit Recognition
When you apply for admission to UofSC, you’re automatically considered for merit scholarships—no separate application required. Each scholarship aims to recognize exceptional academic performance and personal achievement among international applicants. Students are allowed one Admissions Merit Award, with the Provost Scholars Award being the only one that can be combined with another general university scholarship.
UofSC’s scholarship offerings for nonresidents include:
- Stamps Scholars Award
- McNair Scholars Award
- Horseshoe Scholars Award
- Provost Scholars Award
- Alumni Scholars Award
- Academic Scholars Awards (Elite, Excellence, Superlative, Distinction, Merit, and Recognition categories)
These programs stand among the most competitive in the United States, each designed to attract high-caliber students who demonstrate potential to contribute to the university’s thriving global community.
Maintaining Your Scholarship
Once awarded, maintaining eligibility is vital. Recipients must stay enrolled full-time each semester and maintain at least a 3.0 cumulative GPA across the UofSC system. The policy ensures that students remain engaged in academic excellence and leadership, continuing to represent the university’s high standards throughout their degree.
Application Timeline and Key Dates
For international applicants aiming for the most prestigious awards, timing is crucial. The Top Scholars Application Deadline—which includes the Stamps, McNair, and Horseshoe Scholars Awards—is November 15, 2025. This is also the application cutoff for the South Carolina Honors College.
Those who meet this deadline and demonstrate outstanding academic profiles stand a strong chance of being considered for these highly sought-after merit awards for the Fall 2026 intake.
Why International Students Should Apply?
The University of South Carolina continues to expand its global reach by offering a welcoming, supportive, and academically dynamic environment. The university’s scholarship portfolio reflects its commitment to making world-class education accessible and affordable for talented students from around the world.
These scholarships don’t just reduce tuition costs—they open doors to leadership programs, mentorship opportunities, and a strong international alumni network. For students dreaming of studying in the U.S. under a merit-based financial support system, UofSC’s 2026 scholarships are an unmissable opportunity.
Apply: https://sc.edu/about/offices_and_divisions/financial_aid/scholarships/scholarships_for_nonresidents/.