University of South Carolina Acceptance Rate 2026
Quick Answer
University of South Carolina Aiken has an acceptance rate of approximately 78.5% as of April 2026, making it a moderately selective institution. In-state tuition runs $10,760 annually, while out-of-state students pay $21,218. Graduates earn a median of $45,603 ten years after enrollment, according to the most recent data available.
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Learn More →Acceptance Snapshot
For the 2026 admissions cycle, University of South Carolina Aiken admitted approximately 78.5% of applicants, indicating a relatively accessible acceptance process compared to highly selective universities. With a total enrollment of 2,962 students, the campus maintains a smaller, more intimate academic environment than flagship state universities.
The acceptance rate reflects USC Aiken’s mission as a regional comprehensive institution serving South Carolina and surrounding areas. Students interested in applying should note that while acceptance rates are moderate, admitted students still demonstrate solid academic preparation, and the university evaluates applications holistically beyond test scores alone.
SAT & ACT Scores
Data on 25th-75th percentile SAT and ACT composite scores for admitted students at USC Aiken was not available in the current dataset. Prospective students should contact the university’s admissions office directly or visit their official website for the most current standardized testing information for the 2026-2027 admissions cycle.
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Learn More →Tuition & Costs
Annual Tuition & Fees (2026)
- In-State Tuition: $10,760
- Out-of-State Tuition: $21,218
Room and board costs were not included in the available dataset. Students should budget for additional expenses including housing, meals, books, supplies, and personal expenses. The average net price (tuition minus grants) is $11,641, providing a realistic picture of what students typically pay after financial aid.
For detailed cost of attendance breakdowns including room and board, prospective students should consult USC Aiken’s official financial aid website or contact the financial aid office directly.
Financial Aid Overview
The average net price at USC Aiken is $11,641, representing what students pay after accounting for institutional grants and aid. This figure is significantly lower than the published tuition rates, indicating that most students receive some form of financial assistance.
Median student debt upon graduation stands at $24,275, which is below the national average for four-year institutions. This suggests that USC Aiken students graduate with manageable debt levels, particularly those who maximize grant aid and minimize loan borrowing.
For detailed information on the percentage of students receiving need-based aid, merit scholarships, and aid by income bracket, prospective students should contact the university’s Office of Financial Aid or review their official financial aid resources.
Graduation Rates
USC Aiken’s completion rate (graduation rate) is 39.98%, which is notably lower than the national average for four-year institutions, which typically ranges from 55-65%. This metric reflects various institutional factors including student demographics, program offerings, and student support services.
Prospective students should consider what factors contribute to graduation rates at regional institutions and evaluate whether the university’s academic support services align with their needs. Factors such as first-generation student populations, part-time enrollment, and students balancing work with studies can influence institutional completion rates.
Post-Graduation Earnings
Graduates of USC Aiken earn a median of $45,603 ten years after initial enrollment, according to the most recent U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard data. This figure represents earnings across all majors and degree levels and can vary significantly based on field of study, career path, and regional economic factors.
For context, this median earnings figure reflects the value of a USC Aiken degree in the broader labor market, particularly for graduates working in South Carolina and the Southeast. Students interested in specific major outcomes should contact the university’s career services office for detailed salary data by discipline.
Popular Majors
Detailed enrollment data by major was not included in the current dataset. For information about USC Aiken’s most popular academic programs and degree completion data by major, prospective students should visit the university’s academic affairs website or contact their admissions office.
Demographics
Demographic enrollment data by race, ethnicity, and gender was not available in the current dataset. For current enrollment diversity statistics, prospective students should consult USC Aiken’s official institutional research office or admissions materials.
Related Guides
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- Baylor University Acceptance Rate 2026: 95.76%
- Clemson University Acceptance Rate 2025: 38.34%
- Clemson University Acceptance Rate 2026: 38.34%
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the acceptance rate at University of South Carolina Aiken?
As of April 2026, USC Aiken has an acceptance rate of approximately 78.5%, meaning the university admits roughly 4 out of 5 applicants. This relatively high acceptance rate reflects the institution’s regional mission and accessibility, though admitted students still demonstrate academic preparation.
How much does it cost to attend USC Aiken?
In-state tuition is $10,760 annually, while out-of-state students pay $21,218 per year. After accounting for grants and aid, the average net price is $11,641. Additional costs for room, board, books, and supplies will increase the total cost of attendance.
What is the graduation rate at USC Aiken?
USC Aiken’s completion rate is 39.98%, which is lower than the national average for four-year institutions. This reflects various factors including the student population served, enrollment patterns, and institutional support services.
How much do USC Aiken graduates earn?
Graduates earn a median of $45,603 ten years after enrollment. Earnings vary based on major, career field, and individual career choices. Students should research salary outcomes for their specific major of interest.
What is the average student debt at USC Aiken?
The median student debt at graduation is $24,275, which is below the national average. This suggests that USC Aiken students graduate with manageable debt levels, particularly when they maximize grant aid and minimize loan borrowing.
Is USC Aiken the same as the University of South Carolina Columbia?
No. USC Aiken is a regional campus of the University of South Carolina system located in Aiken, South Carolina. It is a separate institution from the flagship University of South Carolina campus in Columbia, which is larger and more selective.
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Learn More →Data Sources
All statistics in this article are sourced from the U.S. Department of Education’s National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) and the College Scorecard database, with data current as of April 11, 2026. Prospective students should verify all figures directly with University of South Carolina Aiken’s official admissions and financial aid offices, as institutional data is updated regularly and may have changed since this article’s publication.