South Carolina State University is not selective in its admission process. The acceptance rate of South Carolina State University is 83.9%. This means that 84 out of every 100 applicants get admitted.
How Competitiveness is South Carolina State University Admissions?
- Slightly Competitive: Applicants need average academics and extracurriculars.
- GPA, SAT/ACT, and AP/IB courses significantly impact admission chances.
- A holistic review considers essays, recommendations, and leadership roles.

Although the acceptance rate is high, remember that to secure admission to any institution of higher learning, you must convince the admission staff that you are mentally and physically fit for the course of studies. Your GPA, class performance, SAT/ACT scores, and IB or AP courses can help your application stand out. If you do not perform well in one area, you can showcase your strengths in other areas, as South Carolina State University is not very strict in its admission, so improving other areas will help you secure admission.
To enhance your chances of admission, perform well in academics and other activities. If your GPA is not excellent, compensate by scoring high on the SAT, and ACT, and taking IB or AP courses.
Additionally, a well-written letter of recommendation, your participation in co-curricular and extracurricular activities, and your interpersonal communication skills can improve your chances of admission.
South Carolina State University Admission Requirements
South Carolina State University GPA Requirement
The average GPA of admitted students at South Carolina State University is 3.17. Admission is competitive, but not extremely selective.
A mix of A’s and B’s is acceptable, and taking AP/IB courses helps.
If your GPA is between 2.87 and 3.17, you should aim for a high SAT or ACT score. A minimum GPA of 2.77 is required.
Can I Get Into South Carolina State University Without SAT Or ACT?: South Carolina State University does not require admission test scores (SAT/ACT) during the application process and does not recommend that students provide these scores. But it is better to submit the test score if you have performed well in the test. It gives an extra opportunity to showcase your skills and competencies and hence will improve your chances of admission. Check the schedule of the test and plan accordingly. It is advisable to appear multiple times in the test unless you score well above the average SAT / ACT score of the admitted students, as given below. Normally, students may appear in the test 4 to 5 times to improve their scores. But if your score is not up to the mark and is less than the national or state average, then it is better not to submit the score as it will impact negatively.
South Carolina State University SAT Requirements
Each school has different requirements for SAT and ACT testing. Only a few schools require the SAT or ACT, but many consider your scores if you choose to submit them. The test score policy is already mentioned.
South Carolina State University Average SAT Score: 925
The average SAT score of the admitted students at South Carolina State University is 925 on the 1600 SAT scale.
South Carolina State University SAT Competitiveness

This score makes it an easy target or SAT test scores. You need to put average efforts to score 925 on the SAT.
Key Insight:Aim for the 75th percentile (0 SAT) to stand out. If your scores are below average, consider retaking the test. South Carolina State University allows Score Choice for the SAT and Superscoring for the ACT, giving you flexibility to submit your best scores.
If your score is below 0, you must retake the SAT to improve your chances of admission to South Carolina State University. It is not strange to appear multiple times for the SAT to improve scores. Colleges don’t mind if you have appeared multiple times, but not more than 5 times.
South Carolina State University SAT Scores Breakdown by Sections
Section | Average | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile |
---|---|---|---|
SAT Math | 0 | 0 | 0 |
SAT Reading | 0 | 0 | 0 |
SAT Composite | 925 | 0 | 0 |
It means that if you have scored less than 0 then you are below most of the admitted students at South Carolina State University and your chances of admission are very few. But if you have scored 0 or more, your chances of admission are higher. 25th percentile means that only 25% of the admitted students have fewer scores than this score. 75th percentile marks the score of the upper 25% of the students. View list of all colleges with average SAT score of 950
Can I get into South Carolina State University with a 0 SAT?
With a 0 SAT Score, your chances of admission at South Carolina State University are good but the admission staff at South Carolina State University tests your all-around personality and your academics. Your GPA, Class performance, SAT/ACT/Test scores, and AP or IB Courses can help your application stand out. Co-curricular and extra-curricular activities and interpersonal communication skills are very important. Additionally, if you cannot perform well in one area, you have a chance to showcase your strengths and abilities in other areas, improving other areas will help you secure admission. You need to show better performance in all areas. An equally high GPA, taking IB or AP Courses and your role in leadership activities will increase your chances of admission. However, if you equally compete well in all other areas, your chances of admission are high.
South Carolina State University Profile
Name: South Carolina State University
City: Orangeburg
URL: https://scsu.edu/
State: South Carolina
Type: Public
Zip: 29117-0001
Campus: Main
Accredited by: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCC)
How much does a degree from South Carolina State University Cost?
The average annual cost of the degree at South Carolina State University is USD: 29886. As most of the students receive Pell Grants and Federal Grants the average annual net price a student has to pay at South Carolina State University is USD: 17552
How can I get a scholarship?
65.62% of the students are receiving Pell Grant and 60.99 percent are receiving Federal Grants. So it is a better choice to go to South Carolina State University and apply for PELL or federal loan grants.
At South Carolina State University, you will have no problem receiving any scholarship from the federal government. Fill in the FAFSA application form at the earliest and enlist South Carolina State University as your choice in the form.
How much a South Carolina State University Graduate make?
The average annual salary of the South Carolina State University graduate after 4-6 years of graduation is USD 38262. An average South Carolina State University graduate makes this much after 10 years of enrollment (4-6 years after graduation).
The average annual income of a graduate in the United States is USD: 40595

Less Competitive Schools
These schools have lower average SAT or ACT scores than South Carolina State University. If your SAT or ACT score is slightly lower than the requirements of South Carolina State University, you'll be competitive for these schools.
School | Location | SAT | ACT |
---|---|---|---|
University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff | University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, AR | 878 | 16 |
Gallaudet University | Gallaudet University, DC | 896 | 17 |
Bethune-Cookman University | Bethune-Cookman University, FL | 903 | 17 |
St Luke's College | St Luke's College, IA | 910 | 17 |
Kentucky State University | Kentucky State University, KY | 889 | 17 |
Bowie State University | Bowie State University, MD | 910 | NA |
Villa Maria College | Villa Maria College, NY | 895 | NA |
Fayetteville State University | Fayetteville State University, NC | 915 | 17 |
Livingstone College | Livingstone College, NC | 887 | 18 |
Wilberforce University | Wilberforce University, OH | 910 | 16 |

Equally Competitive Schools
These schools have the same range of average SAT or ACT scores as South Carolina State University. If your SAT or ACT score are competitive for South Carolina State University, you'll be competitive for these schools also.
School | Location | SAT | ACT |
---|---|---|---|
Alabama A & M University | Alabama A & M University, AL | 920 | 17 |
Fayetteville State University | Fayetteville State University, NC | 915 | 17 |
Winston-Salem State University | Winston-Salem State University, NC | 921 | 17 |
Huston-Tillotson University | Huston-Tillotson University, TX | 930 | 17 |
Texas Southern University | Texas Southern University, TX | 922 | 17 |

More Competitive Schools
These schools have higher average SAT or ACT scores than South Carolina State University. If you improve your SAT or ACT score, you'll be competitive for these schools.
School | Location | SAT | ACT |
---|---|---|---|
Alabama State University | Alabama State University, AL | 963 | 18 |
Johnson University Florida | Johnson University Florida, FL | 960 | NA |
Trinity Baptist College | Trinity Baptist College, FL | 987 | 19 |
Trinity College of Florida | Trinity College of Florida, FL | 966 | 19 |
Warner University | Warner University, FL | 968 | 19 |
Degree Programs
Bachelor Degree Programs
- Accounting and Related Services
- Agricultural Business and Management
- Arts, Entertainment,and Media Management
- Biology, General
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Business/Managerial Economics
- Chemistry
- Civil Engineering
- Civil Engineering Technologies/Technicians
- Communication and Media Studies
Frequently Asked Questions About South Carolina State University Admissions
Answer: Graduates of this university typically earn a lower salary, $38262 annually, especially in non-technical fields.
Question: What is the tuition fee for South Carolina State University?
Answer: The tuition fee at this university is relatively low, around $29886 per year, making it more affordable for many students.
Question: What are my chances of getting a scholarship at South Carolina State University?
Answer: Your chances of getting a scholarship are excellent, with more than a 80% chance, depending on your academic performance and extracurricular involvement.
Question: What is the acceptance rate for South Carolina State University?
Answer: The acceptance rate of South Carolina State University is 83.9 which is relatively high, above 20%, making it somewhat easier to gain admission compared to other top-tier universities.
Question: What is the average GPA of admitted students at South Carolina State University?
Answer: The average GPA of admitted students is 3.17. This reflects the competitive academic profile expected from applicants.
Question: What is the minimum GPA required for admission to South Carolina State University?
Answer: The minimum GPA required for admission is typically around 2.87, though this can vary depending on other factors such as test scores, extracurriculars, and essays.
Question: What are my chances at South Carolina State University with a 2.87 GPA?
Answer: If your GPA is 2.87 or less, it may makes admission difficult. However, your chances may improve if you have strong test scores, extracurricular activities, and essays.
Question: Can I apply to South Carolina State University if my GPA is below 2.77
Answer: While the average GPA of admitted students is 3.17, applicants with lower GPAs can still be considered if they have strong test scores, extracurriculars, and compelling personal essays that demonstrate resilience and potential.
Question: How competitive is the SAT score requirement for South Carolina State University?
Answer: Admission to South Carolina State University is based on SAT, and a strong SAT score is essential. Aim for scores above 925 for the best chances, although the overall application strength also matters. Your SAT must be in the range of 0-0
Question: Is it possible to transfer to South Carolina State University from another university?
Answer: Yes, many students successfully transfer to South Carolina State University each year. Be prepared with your academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and a solid personal statement to make your application competitive.
Question: What is the campus culture like at South Carolina State University?
Answer: The campus culture at South Carolina State University is diverse and vibrant, with numerous student organizations, sports teams, and cultural activities. It’s an ideal environment for personal growth and building lifelong connections.
Question: How can I improve my chances of getting into South Carolina State University?
Answer: To improve your chances, focus on excelling academically, building a strong extracurricular profile, and submitting standout essays. High SAT/ACT scores are also crucial for competitive admissions.
Full list of All degree programs offered by South Carolina State University.
Data on this page is sourced from IPEDS, College Scorecard's latest data as provided in 2024, US Department of Education's latest 2024 statistics, Institute's official websites and printed material as well as additional publicly available sources.