University of South Carolina
The University of South Carolina is a well-known public research university with a rich 200-year history, and it is located in Columbia, South Carolina, USA. With eight campuses spread across 20 locations across the country. Renowned for its commitment to excellence, the University of South Carolina is particularly distinguished for its international business major. This program has consistently held the top position in the US News and World Report rankings for an impressive 23 consecutive years. The university’s impact on society extends beyond its academic programs, with groundbreaking research emanating from its 8 campuses and 15 academic schools and colleges. USC remains dedicated to serving society through its commitment to innovation and educational excellence.
The university’s influence extends beyond its scholarly achievements to the community through innovative research projects on its eight campuses and in its fifteen academic schools and colleges. Examining the University of South Carolina’s complex fabric reveals a school committed to the significant service and innovation that have shaped its history and the quest for knowledge.
At a Glance:
| Year of Establishment | 1801 |
| Also Known as | USC |
| Accepted Exams | TOFEL, IELTS |
| Total International Students | 1795 |
| Male / Female Ratio | 1.22 |
| UG / PG Course Ratio | 1.81 |
| Faculty / Student Ratio | 17 |
| Endowments Values | US Dollar 770 Million |
| No. of campuses | 8 |
University of South Carolina Programs
The University of South Carolina offers a diverse range of undergraduate programs designed to provide students with a solid foundation in various fields. Some of the key undergraduate programs include the following:
| Courses | Tuition fees per year |
|---|---|
| MS | 31 lakh |
| MIM | 26 lakh |
| MBA / PGDM | 27 lakh |
| BBA | 29 lakh |
| B.Sc | 29 lakh |
| B.E / B.Tech | 29 lakh |
| M.A | 25 lakh |
| B.A | 28 lakh |
| B.Ed | 28 lakh |
| M.P.H | 25 lakh |
University Eligibility
Undergraduate Program:
- Participants must normally have either earned an equivalent qualification or completed their high school education.
- The results of standardized tests, like the ACT (American College Testing) and SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test), are often required by universities.
- Tests like the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) or IELTS (International English Language Testing System) are often used to require foreign students to demonstrate their English language proficiency.
Graduate Programs:
- Generally speaking, applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree from an approved university.
- Candidates may be required to take standardized tests like the GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) or GRE (Graduate Record Examination), depending on the particular program.
- A written statement describing the applicant’s academic and professional goals is required by many graduate programs.
- Tests such as the TOEFL or IELTS may be required of international graduate students to verify their level of English proficiency. Because requirements can differ, it is imperative that prospective students carefully review the specific eligibility requirements provided by the university and the program they are applying to.
Required Documents
These are the required documents, which are given below:
- Application form
- Competitive Exam Score (SAT, GMAT, GRE, TOEFL, and IELTS)
- Academic certificate (10th or 12th certificate )
- Bank Statement
- Affidavit of support
- Statement of purpose
- A recommendation letter
- Experience certificate
- Resume
- passport-size picture
- Entrance Exam
- Additional documents
Scholarships Availability
Many scholarships are available from the University of South Carolina to help students with their education. Unfortunately, international students are not eligible for need-based scholarships from the university. At USC, merit-based scholarships for international students are automatically reviewed. Listed below are a few merit-based awards available to overseas students:
- Jane M. Klausman Women in Business Scholarship:
Applicable for: All universities in the USA and Canada
Course stream: business, Engineering, Science
Scholarship: 5000 USD
- The Brian Joseph Lombardi Scholarship:
Applicable for: All universities in the USA and Canada
Course stream: Business, Engineering, Science, law, and humanities
Scholarship: 1000 USD
- Mawista Scholarship:
Applicable for: All universities in the USA and Canada
Course stream: Business, Engineering, Science, Law
Scholarship: 3000 Euro
- The Google Lime Scholarship USA:
Applicable for: All universities in the USA and Canada
Course stream: Computers
Scholarship: 10,000 USD
- CCSE Undergraduate Scholarship:
Applicable for: All universities in the USA and Canada
Course stream: Computers
Scholarship: 5000 USD
Placements
- Employer Partnerships:
The university works with a wide variety of employers, cultivating important relationships that help its graduates find fulfilling employment.
- Assistance with Career Services:
Students can receive full support from the university’s career services office, which includes networking opportunities, interview preparation, and resume building.
- Programs for Internships:
As part of its emphasis on the value of real-world experience, USC provides a range of internship programs that let students put their academic learning into practice while forming important professional networks.
- Alumni Association:
Graduating students gain access to a strong alumni network spanning numerous industries. For recent and prospective graduates, this network offers invaluable job leads, networking opportunities, and mentoring.
- Industry-Specific Placement Programs:
The university may have specific placement programs tailored to different industries, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared and connected within their chosen fields.
Top Recruiters: ESPN, ACCENTURE, CAPGEMINI, IBM, AMAZON, KPMG, Deloitte, Microsoft, Intel, Ernst & Young, etc.
University of South Carolina Ranking
According to global ranking partner THE (Times Higher Education) University Ranking, the University of South Carolina ranking is 501-600 in Best Global Universities, which is declining from 401-500 in 2022. The University of South Carolina is ranked by QS among the World University Rankings at 551-600. Its QS ranking is 551-600 in 2024, which is improving from 701-750 in 2023. As per the US News & World Report Global Universities, the University of South Carolina ranks 346 in the World University Ranking 2023.
| Courses | Rankings |
|---|---|
| Engineering and Technology | 450 |
| Mechanical, Aeronautical and Manufacturing Engineering | 350 |
| Biomedical Engineering | 88 |
| Pharmacy and Pharmacology | 250 |
| Clinical and Health | 401 |
| Arts & Humanities | 501 |
| Psychology | 401 |
| Accounting and Finance | 201 |
Work permit
International students attending the University of South Carolina in the United States in search of work possibilities concurrent with their studies usually look into the Optional Practical Training or Curricular Practical Training programs. It is important to remember that these processes are designed especially for students with F-1 visas, and they are not like traditional “work permits.”. An overview of the policies at the University of South Carolina is provided below:
- Physical Training Selection:
- Maintain valid F-1 status for a minimum of one academic year.
- Employment must directly align with the student’s major field of study.
- Allows for up to 12 months of employment authorization following the completion of the academic program.
- Grants an additional 24 months of OPT extension for eligible STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) fields.
- Apply to the designated school official (DSO) at the University of South Carolina.
- Practical Instruction in the Curriculum:
- Maintain valid F-1 status for a minimum of one academic year, with exceptions for certain graduate programs requiring immediate CPT.
- Flexible, contingent on the academic program’s practical training requirements.
- Collaborate with the academic advisor at the University of South Carolina to ascertain eligibility and secure necessary approvals.
- Initiate the application through the school’s International Student Office.
Accommodation and Meals
On Campus:
The university exclusively offers on-campus housing options for undergraduate students. Typically, incoming first-year students reside in either traditional-style or suite-style halls. Additionally, students are mandated to acquire a compulsory meal plan.
Off-Campus:
- The residence options include room rental, homestay, studio apartment, 3-bedroom bedroom apartment, 2-bedroom apartment, and 1-bedroom apartment.
- The average rent range is $700–$1000 per month.
- The residences are located near campuses and are still centrally located for everything that Columbia has to offer.
- Utilities include High-Speed Internet Access, Water, Electricity, Heat, Trash Removal, Sewer, Cable, Air Conditioning, etc.
Campus/Facilities
Student Centers:
- Hub for student activities, meetings, and events.
- Dining facilities, cafes, and recreational spaces.
- Student support services, including counseling and career guidance.
Research Centers:
- specialized centers for cutting-edge research initiatives.
- Laboratories equipped for advanced scientific studies.
Technology and Innovation Spaces:
- Tech hubs and innovation centers for collaborative projects.
- Computer labs and technology-equipped classrooms.
Administrative Buildings:
- Offices for administrative services, including admissions and registrar.
- Student affairs offices for support and guidance.
Recreation and Fitness Centers:
- Gymnasiums and fitness centers with modern equipment.
- Recreational spaces for sports and physical activities.
Living Cost.
The living costs for students at the University of South Carolina encompass various factors contingent on individual preferences and choices. Housing expenses differ based on the on-campus option selected, ranging from dormitories to suites or apartments. Alternatively, off-campus living involves rent for apartments or shared housing. Utilities, covering electricity, water, and heating or cooling, contribute to overall costs. Students can opt for on-campus meal plans or manage grocery expenses for off-campus living. Transportation costs encompass public transit or personal vehicle expenses, possibly including parking fees.
Additional considerations involve textbook and academic supply costs, health insurance if not provided by the university, personal expenses for items and toiletries, as well as budgeting for recreation, entertainment, and cultural activities. Communication expenses include internet and mobile phone costs. It’s important to note that these estimates exclude tuition and fees, which may vary by program, and actual living costs depend on individual circumstances. To obtain precise and up-to-date information, students are encouraged to refer to the University of South Carolina’s official resources or consult the financial aid office. Local resources and cost-of-living calculators specific to Columbia, South Carolina, can provide insights into the region’s student life expenses.