University of South Carolina-Columbia
Columbia, South Carolina
Total Tuition Cost$12,288
Avg. Cost after Aid$14,303
Annual cost$32,840
Average aid package$17,418
Percent receiving Aid36%
University of South Carolina-Columbia Cost: What you'll actually pay
What you'll actually pay at University of South Carolina-Columbia
University of South Carolina-Columbia cost varies widely based on your family's income. Sticker price sits around $32,840 per year including tuition, housing, and fees, but most students pay far less. About 36% of undergrads receive need-based aid, and families earning under $30,000 typically pay $14,421. Kollegio shows you personalized estimates so you can plan with confidence, not guesswork.
See your real cost in minutes
Stop wondering if University of South Carolina-Columbia fits your budget. Use Kollegio's tools to estimate your net price based on your profile, explore scholarship matches, and compare aid packages across schools. Get clarity on what University of South Carolina-Columbia cost looks like for students like you, without the overwhelm.
See your real cost in minutes
Stop wondering if University of South Carolina-Columbia fits your budget. Use Kollegio's tools to estimate your net price based on your profile, explore scholarship matches, and compare aid packages across schools. Get clarity on what University of South Carolina-Columbia cost looks like for students like you, without the overwhelm.
Breaking down the full cost of attendance
Tuition and fees
University of South Carolina-Columbia's tuition is $12,688 for in-state students and $33,528 for out-of-state students, plus approximately 400 in fees. Financial aid and scholarships can significantly reduce these costs.
Room and board
Housing and meal plans at University of South Carolina-Columbia total approximately $12,908 per year. Off-campus costs vary by location, but many students find on-campus living simplifies budgeting.
Books, supplies, and personal costs
Budget approximately $1,226 annually for textbooks, course materials, and personal expenses. Many students reduce these costs by buying used books, using library resources, or sharing materials. Kollegio's scholarship finder can help offset these extras.
Additional costs to plan for
Living in Columbia comes with urban costs—transportation, entertainment, and occasional dining out add up. Factor in $5,505 for these expenses depending on your lifestyle.
Cost Insights
Tuition$12,288
Fees$400
Room & Board$12,908
Books & Supplies$1,226
Personal/Other$5,505
Total Cost of attendance$32,327
How to make University of South Carolina-Columbia affordable
External Scholarships
External scholarships from private organizations, community foundations, and employers can supplement University of South Carolina-Columbia's aid package. Kollegio's scholarship finder matches you with opportunities tailored to your background, interests, and academic profile. Students often secure thousands in additional funding by applying strategically.
Work-Study and Campus Employment
University of South Carolina-Columbia offers federal work-study and campus employment opportunities, letting students earn annually. Jobs range from library positions to research assistant roles, and many connect directly to your academic interests.
Return on Investment: Outcomes and Value
Alumni starting salary
$53.5K
Debt at graduation
$31.5K
Graduation rate
78.7%
Graduate earnings
Graduates of University of South Carolina-Columbia earn a median salary of $53,504 within 6 years of graduation.
Graduation rate and time to degree
University of South Carolina-Columbia's graduation rate is 78.7%, meaning good. Graduating on time avoids extra tuition costs and gets you into the workforce sooner.
Student debt at graduation
Student debt varies based on your financial aid package and family contribution. Use Kollegio's tools to estimate your potential costs and find scholarships to reduce borrowing.
How Kollegio helps you pay less
Scholarship finder tailored to you
Kollegio matches you with scholarships based on your background, interests, and academic profile. These aren't generic lists—they're opportunities that fit your situation. Students using the tool often find thousands in external aid that reduces their out-of-pocket costs at University of South Carolina-Columbia.
Track deadlines and aid applications
Never miss a FAFSA deadline or scholarship due date. Kollegio organizes your financial aid timeline in one dashboard, sending reminders so you submit everything on time and maximize your aid eligibility.
University of South Carolina-Columbia Cost: Your Questions Answered
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