info@dvividconsultant.com
75750 20920
Dvivid

Best Universities in South Carolina for International Students

Darshan Shah
Darshan Shah

26 Sep 2024

South Carolina offers a very attractive blend of academic excellence, city charm and cultural diversity. With top institutes, welcoming communities and low cost of living, South Carolina remains one of the most attractive destinations for international students for education and career opportunities. It provides an ideal studying environment for students. South Carolina boasts top academic programs and also provides comprehensive support to international students. Whether students are looking for cultural diversity, top institutes and best research opportunities, South Carolina provides a fulfilling experience for students. In this blog, we will help you explore the best universities in South Carolina for international students 

Why choose South Carolina?

Here are a few reasons why international students must choose South Carolina for their education-

Quality education-

  • South Carolina is home to some of the most prestigious colleges in the US. It is reputed to provide quality education and diverse programs to students. 

Affordable cost of living-

  • Compared to other states in the US, South Carolina is an affordable state. The cost of living and tuition fees is low.

Diverse cultural experiences-

  • South Carolina offers diverse cultural experiences to international students. It is home to multicultural communities helping and supporting each other.

Strong support service-

  • Universities help international students with strong support services. They provide academic mentoring and career counselling to students. 

Scholarship opportunities-

  • Many universities in South Carolina offer financial aid and scholarships to international students. A few common scholarships include- Merit-based, need-based, fellowship, assistantship and many more. These scholarship programs help them pursue their education easily.

Top campus environment-

  • South Carolina offers a very pleasant experience to international students. They provide scenic landscapes, a friendly campus environment and the best learning environment for international students.

Career opportunities-

  • International students can explore a variety of fields and can get internship or job placement opportunities. Some known and popular fields are tech, manufacturing, and healthcare.

Cost of living in South Carolina

South Carolina is an ideal state for students who are willing to pursue academic excellence with career opportunities. These states attract international students due to the low cost of living and low tuition fees. These expenses are very personal and depend on individual preferences. We have put down an approximate expense below-

Housing 

  • On-campus housing is around $500 to $1200 monthly whereas off-campus housing is around $600 to $1000 monthly depending on the location.

Food

  • Monthly grocery expense depends on the preferences and usage but an approximate spend is around $200 to $400 monthly.
  • Dine-out per meal expense is around $10-$20.
  • Almost all the universities provide on-campus meal services. The expense is between $3000-$5000 yearly.

Utility 

  • Monthly utility expense which includes electricity, water and Internet is around $100 to $200 monthly. This also depends on the usage of the utilities.

Transportation 

  • For public transportation, the expense is around $40 to $60 monthly. 
  • If students own a car, the monthly expenses are around $200 to $400

Healthcare 

  • For Health insurance the students need to pay around $600 to $1200 for one academic year. 

Other miscellaneous expense

  • For books and other supplies, the expense is around $500 to $800 yearly.
  • Entertainment is a very personal expense, but approximately a student spends around $100-$200 monthly.

Top universities in South Carolina for international students 

Here is the list of all the top universities in South Carolina for international students-

Clemson University

  • Location- Clemson, South Carolina 
  • Type- a public research university 
  • Tuition fees- 
  • For undergraduate programs the tuition fees are around $39,100 yearly.
  • For postgraduate programs the tuition fees are around $29,000 yearly.
  • Scholarship-
  • Need based scholarship
  • Merit-based scholarship 
  • Degree-
  • Bachelor’s 
  • Master’s 
  • Doctorate degree 
  • Top programs-
  • Engineering
  • Biological 
  • Architecture 
  • Computer science 
  • Business 
  • Accreditation
  • By SACSCOC (Southern association of college and school commission on college)

University of South Carolina

  • Location- Columbia, South Carolina 
  • Type- a public research university 
  • Tuition fees- 
  • For undergraduate programs the tuition fees are around $35,000 yearly.
  • For postgraduate programs the tuition fees are around $30,000 yearly.
  • Scholarship-
  • Carolina Global Scholars Program 
  • Merit-based scholarship 
  • Degree-
  • Bachelor’s 
  • Master’s 
  • Doctorate degree 
  • Top programs-
  • Engineering
  • Law 
  • Health Science 
  • Computer science 
  • International Business 
  • Accreditation
  • By SACSCOC (Southern association of college and school commission on college)

Furman University

  • Location- Greenville, South Carolina 
  • Type- Private liberal arts college 
  • Tuition fees- 
  • For undergraduate programs the tuition fees are around $55,000 yearly.
  • For postgraduate programs the tuition fees are around $20,000 yearly.
  • Scholarship-
  • Need-based scholarship
  • Merit-based scholarship 
  • Degree-
  • Bachelor’s 
  • Limited Master’s program
  • Top programs-
  • Political science 
  • Education 
  • Psychology 
  • Environmental science 
  • Business 
  • Accreditation
  • By SACSCOC (Southern association of college and school commission on college)

College of Charlesto

  • Location- Charleston, South Carolina 
  • Type- public liberal arts college 
  • Tuition fees- 
  • For undergraduate programs the tuition fees are around $35,000 yearly.
  • For postgraduate programs the tuition fees are around $25,000 yearly.
  • Scholarship-
  • Merit-based scholarship (International scholar’s program)
  • Degree-
  • Undergraduate 
  • Master’s 
  • Top programs-
  • Education 
  • Biology 
  • Public administration 
  • Computer science 
  • Business 
  • Accreditation
  • By SACSCOC (Southern association of college and school commission on college)

Coastal Carolina University

  • Location- Conway, South Carolina 
  • Type- public university 
  • Tuition fees- 
  • For undergraduate programs the tuition fees are around $27,000 yearly.
  • For postgraduate programs the tuition fees are around $20,000 yearly.
  • Scholarship-
  • Merit-based scholarship 
  • Degree-
  • Bachelor’s 
  • Master’s 
  • Doctorate degree 
  • Top programs-
  • Marine Science 
  • Education 
  • Communication 
  • Computer science 
  • Business 
  • Accreditation
  • By SACSCOC (Southern association of college and school commission on college)

Winthrop University

  • Location- Rock Hill, South Carolina 
  • Type- public university 
  • Tuition fees- 
  • For undergraduate programs the tuition fees are around $30,000 yearly.
  • For postgraduate programs, the tuition fees are around $25,000 yearly.
  • Scholarship-
  • Merit-based scholarship 
  • Degree-
  • Bachelor’s 
  • Master’s 
  • Specialist degree 
  • Top programs-
  • Fine arts 
  • Education 
  • Social work 
  • Psychology 
  • Business 
  • Accreditation
  • By SACSCOC (Southern association of college and school commission on college)

The Citadel, The Military College of South Carolina

  • Location- Charleston, South Carolina 
  • Type- public military college 
  • Tuition fees- 
  • For undergraduate programs, the tuition fees are around $37,000 yearly.
  • For postgraduate programs, the tuition fees are around $19,000 yearly.
  • Scholarship-
  • Merit based scholarship 
  • Citadel foundation scholarship 
  • Degree-
  • Bachelor’s 
  • Master’s 
  • Specialist program 
  • Top programs-
  • Engineering 
  • Criminal justice 
  • Political science 
  • Business 
  • Intelligence and security studies 
  • Accreditation
  • By SACSCOC (Southern association of college and school commission on college

Wofford College

  • Location- Spartanburg, South Carolina 
  • Type- private, liberal arts College 
  • Tuition fees- 
  • For undergraduate programs, the tuition fees are around $52,000 yearly.
  • Limited postgraduate programs available
  • Scholarship-
  • Merit-based scholarship (Wofford Scholars program )
  • Degree-
  • Undergraduate degree 
  • Top programs-
  • Biology
  • Psychology
  • Government
  • Environmental studies
  • Business 
  • Accreditation
  • By SACSCOC (Southern association of college and school commission on college)

Anderson University

  • Location- Anderson, South Carolina 
  • Type- a private Christian university 
  • Tuition fees- 
  • For undergraduate programs, the tuition fees are around $30,000 yearly.
  • For postgraduate programs, the tuition fees are around $22,000 yearly.
  • Scholarship-
  • Merit based scholarship 
  • Degree-
  • Bachelor’s 
  • Master’s 
  • Doctorate degree 
  • Top programs-
  • Nursing 
  • Education 
  • Theology 
  • Music 
  • Business 
  • Accreditation
  • By SACSCOC (Southern association of college and school commission on college)

Presbyterian College

  • Location- Clinton, South Carolina 
  • Type- private, liberal arts College 
  • Tuition fees- 
  • For undergraduate programs, the tuition fees are around $50,000 yearly.
  • For postgraduate programs, the tuition fees are around $22,000 yearly.
  • Scholarship-
  • Merit-based scholarship (Presbyterian scholarship program)
  • Degree-
  • Bachelor’s 
  • Limited Master’s program 
  • Top programs-
  • Biology
  • Education 
  • Political science 
  • Pharmacy 
  • Business 
  • Accreditation
  • By SACSCOC (Southern association of college and school commission on college)

South Carolina State University 

  • Location- Orangeburg, South Carolina 
  • Type- Public historically black university 
  • Tuition fees- 
  • For undergraduate programs, the tuition fees are around $21,000 yearly.
  • For postgraduate programs, the tuition fees are around $17,000 yearly.
  • Scholarship-
  • Merit-based scholarship
  • Need-based scholarship
  • Degree-
  • Bachelor’s 
  • Master’s program 
  • Doctoral Degree 
  • Top programs-
  • Engineering 
  • Education 
  • Computer science 
  • Technology 
  • Business 
  • Nursing
  • Accreditation
  • By SACSCOC (Southern association of college and school commission on college)

Charleston Southern University

  • Location- Charleston, South Carolina 
  • Type- private Christian college 
  • Tuition fees- 
  • For undergraduate programs, the tuition fees are around $28,000 yearly.
  • For postgraduate programs, the tuition fees are around $17,000 yearly.
  • Scholarship-
  • Merit-based scholarship
  • Need-based financial aid
  • Degree-
  • Bachelor’s 
  • Master’s program 
  • Doctoral Degree 
  • Top programs-
  • Nursing 
  • Education 
  • Health Science 
  • Engineering 
  • Business 
  • Accreditation
  • By SACSCOC (Southern association of college and school commission on college)

Erskine College

  • Location- Due West, South Carolina 
  • Type- private Christian liberal arts college 
  • Tuition fees- 
  • For undergraduate programs, the tuition fees are around $37,000 yearly.
  • For postgraduate programs, the tuition fees are around $15,000 yearly.
  • Scholarship-
  • Merit-based scholarship
  • Need based financial aid
  • Degree-
  • Bachelor’s 
  • Master’s program 
  • Doctoral Degree 
  • Top programs-
  • Theology
  • Biology 
  • Education 
  • Psychology 
  • Business 
  • Accreditation
  • By SACSCOC (Southern association of college and school commission on college)

Francis Marion University

  • Location- Florence, South Carolina 
  • Type- public university 
  • Tuition fees- 
  • For undergraduate programs, the tuition fees are around $21,000 yearly.
  • For postgraduate programs, the tuition fees are around $15,000 yearly.
  • Scholarship-
  • Merit-based scholarship
  • Need-based financial aid
  • Degree-
  • Bachelor’s 
  • Master’s program 
  • Specialist degree 
  • Top programs-
  • Nursing 
  • Education 
  • Health Science 
  • Psychology 
  • Business 
  • Accreditation
  • By SACSCOC (Southern association of college and school commission on college)

Lander University

  • Location- Greenwood, South Carolina 
  • Type- Public University 
  • Tuition fees- 
  • For undergraduate programs, the tuition fees are around $28,000 yearly.
  • For postgraduate programs, the tuition fees are around $16,000 yearly.
  • Scholarship-
  • Merit based scholarship
  • Need based financial aid
  • Degree-
  • Bachelor’s 
  • Master’s program 
  • Specialist degree 
  • Top programs-
  • Nursing 
  • Education 
  • Criminal justice 
  • Psychology 
  • Business 
  • Accreditation
  • By SACSCOC (Southern association of college and school commission on college)

Conclusion 

South Carolina offers a unique combination of high education and cultural diversity. The state is comparatively affordable for international students. Some top universities include- Clemson University, the University of South Carolina, and Furman University. These universities include academic excellence, a welcoming environment and strong support for international students. South Carolina is an ideal location for international students who are looking for diverse programs and professional growth. We at D-Vivid consultant will help you explore the top universities in South Carolina, for international students. We will help you get into your university by being part of your admission process. Our professional experts will help you write SOPs, build your resume, prepare you for interviews, help with the visa process and help in the admission application.

Social Share :

Important Resources

Best Universities in Pennsylvania for International StudentsBest Universities in ohio for International StudentsBest Universities in new jersey for International StudentsBest Universities in Scotland for International StudentsBest Universities in northern ireland for international studentsBest Universities in England for international studentsBest Universities in Kentucky for International Students

Score Predictor () :

Predict your PTE, IELTS, TOEFL score! Tried by 7k + students
STEP 1 of 7

Select Board

Comments

0 Comment

Comment by 0 user

Similar Articles

illustration_dashboard
By

10/02/2026
List of GRE-Waiver Universities in USA

Many students hesitate to apply to US universities because of the GRE, but this exam is no longer a mandatory requirement for many programs. This blog provides a detailed list of GRE-waiver universities in the USA, explaining how GRE waivers work, which programs commonly offer them, and who can benefit the most from applying without GRE scores. It also highlights how D-Vivid Consultant helps students shortlist the right GRE-waiver universities, build strong applications through SOPs and profiles, and secure admissions confidently without the stress of standardized tests.

illustration_dashboard
By

10/02/2026
Universities in USA Still Accepting Applications for 2026

Many students worry that missing early deadlines means losing their chance to study in the USA, but that is not always true. This blog explains which universities in the USA are still accepting applications for the 2026 intake, including Spring and Fall options, rolling admissions, and flexible deadlines. It guides students on who should apply late, available programs, document readiness, and visa considerations, while also showing how D-Vivid Consultant helps students shortlist open universities, apply quickly, and secure admissions even at a later stage without compromising career goals.

illustration_dashboard
By

10/02/2026
CPT vs OPT: Key Differences Every Student Must Know

Understanding the difference between CPT and OPT is essential for international students who want to work legally in the United States during and after their studies. This blog clearly explains CPT vs OPT by covering eligibility, duration, work rules, impact on future OPT, and how each option fits into academic and career planning. It also highlights how D-Vivid Consultant helps students choose the right work authorization at the right time, avoid common mistakes, and build a strong long term career strategy in the USA.

illustration_dashboard
By

10/02/2026
USA Study Checklist: Application to Visa

Planning to study in the USA involves multiple steps, and missing even one can affect admissions or visa approval. This blog provides a complete USA study checklist that guides students through every stage, from profile evaluation and university applications to financial planning and visa interviews. It simplifies the entire process into clear, actionable steps, highlights common mistakes to avoid, and explains how D-Vivid Consultant supports students at each stage to ensure a smooth, well planned journey from application to visa approval.

illustration_dashboard
By

10/02/2026
USA Profile Evaluation: Who Has a Real Chance?

A USA profile evaluation helps students understand their true chances of securing admission and visa approval instead of relying on assumptions or hearsay. This blog explains how factors like academic background, GPA, course and career alignment, test scores, work experience, SOP quality, and financial readiness determine whether a student has a realistic chance to study in the USA. It also highlights common mistakes, myths about profile strength, and how D-Vivid Consultant provides honest evaluations, strategic university shortlisting, and visa focused guidance to help students move forward with clarity and confidence.

illustration_dashboard
By

10/02/2026
STEM Universities in USA with High Visa Success Rate

Choosing the right STEM university plays a major role in securing a US student visa, especially for international applicants aiming for long term career opportunities. This blog explains which STEM universities in the USA are known for higher visa success rates, what makes them visa friendly, and how factors like university credibility, course alignment, location, finances, and STEM OPT eligibility influence visa decisions. It also highlights how D-Vivid Consultant helps students strategically select STEM programs, prepare strong documentation, and approach visa interviews with confidence to improve approval chances.

illustration_dashboard
By

10/02/2026
List of GRE-Waiver Universities in USA

Many students hesitate to apply to US universities because of the GRE, but this exam is no longer a mandatory requirement for many programs. This blog provides a detailed list of GRE-waiver universities in the USA, explaining how GRE waivers work, which programs commonly offer them, and who can benefit the most from applying without GRE scores. It also highlights how D-Vivid Consultant helps students shortlist the right GRE-waiver universities, build strong applications through SOPs and profiles, and secure admissions confidently without the stress of standardized tests.

illustration_dashboard
By

10/02/2026
Universities in USA Still Accepting Applications for 2026

Many students worry that missing early deadlines means losing their chance to study in the USA, but that is not always true. This blog explains which universities in the USA are still accepting applications for the 2026 intake, including Spring and Fall options, rolling admissions, and flexible deadlines. It guides students on who should apply late, available programs, document readiness, and visa considerations, while also showing how D-Vivid Consultant helps students shortlist open universities, apply quickly, and secure admissions even at a later stage without compromising career goals.

illustration_dashboard
By

10/02/2026
CPT vs OPT: Key Differences Every Student Must Know

Understanding the difference between CPT and OPT is essential for international students who want to work legally in the United States during and after their studies. This blog clearly explains CPT vs OPT by covering eligibility, duration, work rules, impact on future OPT, and how each option fits into academic and career planning. It also highlights how D-Vivid Consultant helps students choose the right work authorization at the right time, avoid common mistakes, and build a strong long term career strategy in the USA.

illustration_dashboard
By

10/02/2026
USA Study Checklist: Application to Visa

Planning to study in the USA involves multiple steps, and missing even one can affect admissions or visa approval. This blog provides a complete USA study checklist that guides students through every stage, from profile evaluation and university applications to financial planning and visa interviews. It simplifies the entire process into clear, actionable steps, highlights common mistakes to avoid, and explains how D-Vivid Consultant supports students at each stage to ensure a smooth, well planned journey from application to visa approval.

illustration_dashboard
By

10/02/2026
USA Profile Evaluation: Who Has a Real Chance?

A USA profile evaluation helps students understand their true chances of securing admission and visa approval instead of relying on assumptions or hearsay. This blog explains how factors like academic background, GPA, course and career alignment, test scores, work experience, SOP quality, and financial readiness determine whether a student has a realistic chance to study in the USA. It also highlights common mistakes, myths about profile strength, and how D-Vivid Consultant provides honest evaluations, strategic university shortlisting, and visa focused guidance to help students move forward with clarity and confidence.

illustration_dashboard
By

10/02/2026
STEM Universities in USA with High Visa Success Rate

Choosing the right STEM university plays a major role in securing a US student visa, especially for international applicants aiming for long term career opportunities. This blog explains which STEM universities in the USA are known for higher visa success rates, what makes them visa friendly, and how factors like university credibility, course alignment, location, finances, and STEM OPT eligibility influence visa decisions. It also highlights how D-Vivid Consultant helps students strategically select STEM programs, prepare strong documentation, and approach visa interviews with confidence to improve approval chances.

illustration_dashboard
By

10/02/2026
List of GRE-Waiver Universities in USA

Many students hesitate to apply to US universities because of the GRE, but this exam is no longer a mandatory requirement for many programs. This blog provides a detailed list of GRE-waiver universities in the USA, explaining how GRE waivers work, which programs commonly offer them, and who can benefit the most from applying without GRE scores. It also highlights how D-Vivid Consultant helps students shortlist the right GRE-waiver universities, build strong applications through SOPs and profiles, and secure admissions confidently without the stress of standardized tests.

illustration_dashboard
By

10/02/2026
Universities in USA Still Accepting Applications for 2026

Many students worry that missing early deadlines means losing their chance to study in the USA, but that is not always true. This blog explains which universities in the USA are still accepting applications for the 2026 intake, including Spring and Fall options, rolling admissions, and flexible deadlines. It guides students on who should apply late, available programs, document readiness, and visa considerations, while also showing how D-Vivid Consultant helps students shortlist open universities, apply quickly, and secure admissions even at a later stage without compromising career goals.

illustration_dashboard
By

10/02/2026
CPT vs OPT: Key Differences Every Student Must Know

Understanding the difference between CPT and OPT is essential for international students who want to work legally in the United States during and after their studies. This blog clearly explains CPT vs OPT by covering eligibility, duration, work rules, impact on future OPT, and how each option fits into academic and career planning. It also highlights how D-Vivid Consultant helps students choose the right work authorization at the right time, avoid common mistakes, and build a strong long term career strategy in the USA.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the few top institutes in South Carolina for international students?

South Carolina offers a diverse range of universities and programs across various fields. Few top institutes include- Clemson University, the University of South Carolina, and Furman University.

Mention the tuition fee for international students in South Carolina?

For public universities the tuition fees are around $20,000 to $35,000 yearly. For private universities international students must expect tuition fees around $40,000 and more. 

Is South Carolina an affordable state for international students?

South Carolina universities are popular among international students as it provides low tuition fees and low cost of living. It is an affordable state for international students when compared to other big states in the US.

What are the few top programs in South Carolina for international students?

South Carolina is known to offer diverse academic options for students to explore different fields according to their interests. A few top programs include- business administration, engineering, public health, and marine science.

Are scholarships available for international students in South Carolina?

South Carolina universities provide students with many scholarship programs. Mainly universities provide merit-based and need-based scholarship programs. They provide assistantships and fellowship scholarship programmes for graduate students.