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Office of Undergraduate Admissions

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International Costs

World-class academics and a welcoming community—the University of South Carolina is worth the investment. Learn about the costs associated with living and learning at South Carolina's flagship university.

The following information is an estimate of expenses for the fall and spring semesters (August through May). Expenses may change without notice.

Tuition and Fees: $33,951 (estimated)

Exact amount of tuition varies by the type of academic program and number of credit hours for which you enroll. If you require an I-20 form from International Student Services, please remember this estimate and other estimates below. You should expect to pay this amount of tuition at minimum for the academic year (fall semester, which is August through December, and spring semester, which is January through May). Summer semesters (June through August) are optional and require additional tuition.

Living Expenses: $18,455 (estimated)

Living Expenses are estimated on the basis of the academic year. Students who plan to remain in Columbia during the summer should plan on additional 25 percent on the cost of room and meal plans and other living expenses. Below is a breakdown of expenses.

  • Room and Meal Plan: $11,243 - Room rates vary depending upon whether or not you live on-campus or off-campus and whether you live alone or share housing with others. Food may be purchased at the University dining facilities, or you may choose to prepare your own food if you have cooking facilities.
  • Books: $1,044 - Books and educational supplies are estimated for the academic year. If you are attending summer school, book expenses will be higher.
  • Other Living Expenses: $6,168  - Estimated expenses include student health insurance, routine medical costs, clothing, laundry, recreation, and local transportation.

Estimated Total Expenses (Tuition and Fees Plus Living Expenses): $52,406

There may be additional fees depending on your selected major.

Financial Certification and Expenses:

Students will need to show evidence of financial support for two purposes:

  • to obtain the I-20 or DS-2019 immigration document from the University of South Carolina
  • to apply for a student entry visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate

 To obtain an I-20 or DS-2019 from the University, students are required to submit evidence of financial resources to cover the expense of one academic year of study here. The International Student Services provides an excellent resource to help you understand the I-20 and visa process.

Admissions decisions are made independently of the financial certification information.


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