Quick Summary
University of South Carolina, in Columbia, United States, is a public research university that has shaped higher education since 1801. Ranked #601 globally by QS World University Rankings 2026, it enrolls 36500 students including 5% from outside United States. Known for strengths in International Business, Sports-related Subjects, Hospitality and Leisure Management, it maintains an acceptance rate of 64%.
01
Institutional Profile
Who they are
Home to the #1 undergraduate international business program for over 20 years and a top-tier research institution with vibrant SEC school spirit.
Subject Strengths
International BusinessSports-related SubjectsHospitality and Leisure ManagementNursingExercise Science
Founded1801
TypePublic Research University
Total Students36500
Intl Students5%
Faculty Ratio18
CampusUrban
Campus Size444 acres
Affiliated HospitalsPrisma Health Richland Hospital,MUSC Health Columbia Medical Center
AccreditationSouthern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
02
Global Standing
Three independent ranking systems
QS World 2026
#601
Quacquarelli Symonds
Times Higher Ed
#401-500
THE World University
ARWU Shanghai
#301-400
Academic Ranking
03
Academics & Research
What you can study
Bachelor's,Master's,Doctorate,Professional,Graduate Certificates
Programs
62
PhD Programs
45
Online Programs
Moore School of Business Research,McKissick Museum,Belle W. Baruch Institute for Marine and Coastal Sciences,Arnold School of Public Health
Research Centers
Very High
Research Output
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
Accreditation
04
Admissions Brief
What it takes to get in
Entry Requirements
Acceptance Rate64%
IELTS6.5
TOEFL77
Min GPA3.5
GREOptional for many programs, required for specific graduate degrees
GMATRequired for most MBA and specialized business masters
SAT1140
ACT24
Key Dates
FALLApplication Deadline · February 15
SPRINGApplication Deadline · November 1
MAR-APRDecisions Released
Required Documents
TranscriptsSOPEnglish ScoresLORsPassport
Insider Tip
Highlight leadership roles and community service; International Business applicants should demonstrate global interest; Early Action deadline is October 15.
05
Cost Ledger
Annual estimate
UG Tuition
$33,928/yr
per year · USD
Living Cost
$15,500/yr
per year · USD
PG Tuition
$30,144/yr
per year · USD
Application Fee
$65
one time · USD
Total Estimated Annual Cost
$50,093/yr
tuition + living + essentials · USD
Scholarships AvailableAvailable
Avg Scholarship$8,500
Financial AidAvailable
Work-StudyAvailable
06
Featured & Popular Programs
A sample from Bachelor's,Master's,Doctorate,Professional,Graduate Certificates programs total
| Program | Level | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| International Business | BACHELOR | 3-4 YRS |
| Nursing | MASTER | 1-2 YRS |
| Finance | PHD | 3-5 YRS |
| Biology | MBA | 12-24 MO |
| Psychology | BACHELOR | 3-4 YRS |
| Sport and Entertainment Management | MASTER | 1-2 YRS |
07
Career Outcomes
Where graduates land
$56,000
Average Salary After Graduation
90%
Employment Rate
Internship Placement85
Industry Connections
BoeingBMWSiemensPrisma HealthBlueCross BlueShield
Notable Alumni
Darius Rucker,Lindsey Graham,A'ja Wilson,Henry McMaster,Leeza Gibbons
08
Campus & Student Life
Life beyond lectures
Housing
On-campus available
Sports Facilities
Williams-Brice Stadium,Colonial Life Arena,Strom Thurmond Wellness and Fitness Center
Student Clubs
500
Library Resources
Thomas Cooper Library,South Caroliniana Library,Moving Image Research Collections
Exchange Programs
Available
Summer Programs
Available