USC Acceptance Rate 2026

Quick Answer

The University of South Carolina Aiken maintains an acceptance rate of approximately 78.5% as of April 2026, making it a moderately accessible institution for prospective students. With in-state tuition at $10,760 annually, USCA offers an affordable pathway to higher education, and graduates earn a median of $45,603 ten years after enrollment.

Acceptance Snapshot

As of the 2026 academic year, the University of South Carolina Aiken admitted approximately 78.5% of applicants, reflecting a selective yet accessible admissions process. With a student body of 2,962 students, USCA maintains a smaller, more intimate campus environment compared to large flagship universities.

The acceptance rate indicates that while USCA does evaluate applicant credentials carefully, the institution prioritizes access to higher education. This acceptance threshold suggests that students with solid academic records and demonstrated interest in the university have a strong likelihood of admission. The relatively high acceptance rate, combined with USCA’s affordable tuition structure, positions the university as an excellent option for students seeking quality education without the extreme competitiveness of elite institutions.

SAT & ACT Scores

Data for standardized test score ranges (25th-75th percentile SAT and ACT composite scores) is not available in the current dataset. Prospective students should contact the University of South Carolina Aiken’s admissions office directly for current testing requirements and score distributions for admitted students.

Tuition & Costs

The University of South Carolina Aiken offers significant cost advantages for both in-state and out-of-state students:

Cost Component	Amount
In-State Tuition (Annual)	$10,760
Out-of-State Tuition (Annual)	$21,218
Average Net Price	$11,641

The in-state tuition of $10,760 per year makes USCA one of the more affordable options in higher education. Out-of-state students pay $21,218 annually—still competitive compared to many private and out-of-state public universities. The average net price of $11,641 reflects the impact of financial aid and grants, indicating that many students pay less than the sticker price after aid packages are applied.

These figures represent the tuition and mandatory fees only. Students should budget additional costs for room and board, books, supplies, and personal expenses when calculating their total cost of attendance. The affordability of USCA’s tuition makes it particularly attractive for first-generation college students and families with limited financial resources.

Financial Aid Overview

The average net price at USCA is $11,641, which represents what the average student pays after grants and aid are factored in. This figure is substantially lower than the published tuition rates, demonstrating that financial aid plays a meaningful role in making education accessible at this institution.

Students considering USCA should contact the financial aid office for detailed information about grant eligibility, federal student loan options, and institutional scholarships. The university participates in federal financial aid programs and works with students to develop aid packages tailored to individual circumstances.

Graduation Rates

The University of South Carolina Aiken reports a completion rate of approximately 40% as of April 2026. This metric reflects the percentage of first-time, full-time students who complete their degree within the expected timeframe.

This completion rate is notably below the national average for four-year institutions, which typically ranges from 55-60%. Prospective students should consider this statistic alongside other factors when evaluating USCA. The lower completion rate may reflect USCA’s open-access mission and diverse student population, which often includes working adults, non-traditional students, and first-generation college attendees who may take longer to complete degrees while balancing other responsibilities.

Post-Graduation Earnings

Graduates of the University of South Carolina Aiken earn a median of $45,603 ten years after initial enrollment, according to data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (as of April 2026). This figure represents earnings for the full cohort of students who attended the institution, regardless of whether they completed their degree.

This earnings figure should be contextualized within regional economic conditions and the types of degree programs offered at USCA. Students pursuing specific majors may see earnings that differ significantly from the institutional median. For more detailed earnings information by major, prospective students should consult the College Scorecard or contact USCA’s career services office directly.

Popular Majors

Detailed data on the top majors by degrees awarded is not available in the current dataset. Prospective students interested in specific programs should visit the University of South Carolina Aiken’s website or contact the admissions office for comprehensive information about available degree programs and enrollment by major.

Demographics

Enrollment data broken down by race/ethnicity and gender is not available in the current dataset. The University of South Carolina Aiken’s admissions office and institutional research department can provide detailed demographic information about the current student body.

FAQ

What is the acceptance rate at University of South Carolina Aiken?

As of April 2026, USCA has an acceptance rate of approximately 78.5%, meaning roughly 4 out of 5 applicants are admitted. This relatively high acceptance rate reflects the university’s commitment to access while maintaining academic standards.

How much does it cost to attend USCA?

In-state tuition is $10,760 per year, while out-of-state tuition is $21,218 annually. The average net price—what students actually pay after financial aid—is $11,641. Students should budget additional funds for room and board, books, and other expenses.

What do USCA graduates earn after college?

According to College Scorecard data from April 2026, USCA graduates earn a median of $45,603 ten years after enrollment. Earnings vary significantly by major and career path.

Is USCA a good value for the cost?

With in-state tuition under $11,000 per year and an average net price of $11,641, USCA offers an affordable pathway to a bachelor’s degree. The value proposition depends on individual circumstances, program choice, and career goals. Students should evaluate USCA alongside other institutions to determine the best fit.

What is the graduation rate at USCA?

The completion rate at USCA is approximately 40%, which is below the national average. This reflects the university’s diverse student population, which includes working adults and first-generation students who may take longer to complete degrees.

Does USCA offer financial aid?

Yes, USCA participates in federal financial aid programs and offers institutional grants and scholarships. The average net price of $11,641 demonstrates that financial aid meaningfully reduces the cost of attendance for many students. Prospective students should complete the FAFSA to determine their eligibility for aid.

How selective is USCA?

With a 78.5% acceptance rate, USCA is moderately selective. The university considers applicant credentials and fit but maintains relatively accessible admissions standards compared to highly competitive institutions.

---

Data Sources

The statistics and figures in this article come from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) and the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, with data current as of April 11, 2026. Prospective students should verify all figures directly with the University of South Carolina Aiken’s admissions and financial aid offices, as institutional data is updated regularly and may differ from third-party sources.