Top 10 Cheapest Colleges in South Carolina (2025)

Join the budget-friendly campus party in the Palmetto State. Uncover the top 10 cheapest colleges in South Carolina (2024) and turn tuition woes into a sweet southern breeze.

Begin your academic journey with one of the following cheapest colleges in South Carolina.

List of Cheap Colleges in South Carolina

Discover your budget-friendly academic haven with our curated list of the cheapest colleges in South Carolina, where quality education meets affordability.

1. The Citadel Military College of South Carolina

The Citadel, nestled in Charleston, delivers a unique military college experience. With iconic traditions and a focus on leadership, it stands as a beacon since 1842.

Offering 31 majors, an 11 to 1 student-faculty ratio, and a commitment to excellence, The Citadel is affordable with tuition at $14,348 for in-state and $39,148 for out-of-state students, complemented by scholarships totaling $33 million.

2. College of Charleston

Established in 1770, the College of Charleston combines history with quality education. With a 14.5:1 student-faculty ratio, 67 majors, and a vibrant campus, it's a top choice.

Tuition at $12,518 (in-state) and $36,398 (out-state) makes it accessible, with diverse financial aid options, emphasizing the college's commitment to affordability.

3. University of South Carolina - Beaufort

The University of South Carolina - Beaufort, rooted in coastal charm, offers over 50 undergraduate programs. With campuses in Bluffton, Beaufort, and Hilton Head, it caters to diverse interests.

Affordable tuition at $5,172 (in-state) and $10,695 (out-state) ensures accessibility, complemented by varied financial aid options, highlighting USCB's dedication to overcoming financial barriers.

4. University of South Carolina - Aiken

Founded in 1961, the University of South Carolina - Aiken boasts grassroots support, ensuring quality education. With 72 academic programs, a 17:1 student-faculty ratio, and low student debt, it prioritizes individualized learning.

Affordable tuition at $5,199 (in-state) and $10,428 (out-state) aligns with USC Aiken's commitment to accessible education, bolstered by diverse financial aid options.

5. Lander University

Lander, established in 1872, blends tradition and innovation. With 90+ areas of study, small class sizes, and frozen tuition, it values student success.

Affordable at $5,850 (in-state) and $10,650 (out-of-state), Lander emphasizes preparation for students' futures, supported by a range of financial aid options.

6. University of South Carolina - Upstate

USC Upstate, founded in 1967, leaves a $500 million annual impact. Accredited and offering 50+ programs, it's a regional comprehensive university.

Affordable tuition at $11,933 (in-state) and $23,435 (out-state) ensures accessibility, backed by robust financial aid, spotlighting USC Upstate's dedication to supporting students' academic journeys.

7. Francis Marion University

FMU, established in 1970, honors Revolutionary War hero Francis Marion. With more than 75 majors and consistent tuition, it values student success.

Tuition at $11,160 (in-state) and $21,544 (out-state) makes FMU accessible, supported by diverse financial aid options, embodying the university's commitment to affordable, quality education.

8. University of South Carolina - Columbia

Founded in 1801, the University of South Carolina - Columbia offers 350+ degree options and a robust scholarship system.

With tuition at $12,688 (in-state) and $34,934 (out-state), it emphasizes need-based financial aid and scholarships, ensuring more than 98% of freshmen receive support, reflecting USC's commitment to accessible and diverse education.

9. Voorhees College

Established in 1897, Voorhees focuses on spiritual and intellectual development. Offering degrees in 12 disciplines, including cyber security, it values holistic growth.

With tuition at $11,630 (in-state and out-state), Voorhees emphasizes grants, scholarships, and work-study, showcasing its commitment to comprehensive student support.

10. Winthrop University

Founded in 1886, Winthrop University blends history and excellence. Offering bachelor's, master's, and specialist degrees, it prepares students for diverse futures.

With tuition at $7,653 (in-state) and $14,818 (out-state), Winthrop administers need-based and merit-based aid, emphasizing accessibility and supporting a diverse student body.

How Much Will a College Degree Cost?

Tuition and fees constitute a significant portion of the overall expenses for college students.

On average, tuition at a four-year institution stands at $19,806, encompassing 54% of total college costs.

Public four-year institutions exhibit an average in-state tuition and fees of $9,678 annually, accounting for 37% of the cost of attendance.

Nonprofit private colleges, on the other hand, reflect an average tuition and fees of $38,768 per year, making up 69% of total college costs.

For-profit institutions have an average annual tuition and fees of $17,825, equivalent to 54% of the overall cost of attendance.

How To Make College Affordable

Explore practical strategies to make college more affordable with these key steps.

1. Take Advantage of AP Credits

Taking Advanced Placement (AP) courses in high school can significantly reduce college costs. A score of 3 or higher on the AP exam may earn credits, saving on tuition expenses.

While policies vary, this strategy accelerates graduation, cutting overall expenses.

2. Attend an In-State University or College

Opting for an in-state college or university typically results in more affordable tuition compared to out-of-state or private institutions.

The average cost of in-state tuition at a four-year public institution was $10,950, significantly lower than out-of-state and private alternatives.

3. Look into Regional Tuition Exchange Programs

Explore tuition reciprocity programs, allowing students to pay in-state tuition at partner-state institutions. Programs like those between Minnesota and Wisconsin can provide cost-effective options for out-of-state students.

5. Apply for Financial Aid Early

Applying for federal financial aid, including scholarships, grants, and work-study, can be crucial. Early applications may increase the chances of qualifying for aid, providing valuable financial support.

6. Target Specific Scholarships

Seek out scholarships tailored to your interests, talents, or background. Websites like FastWeb and Scholarships.com simplify the search, offering a wide range of opportunities to reduce college expenses.

Do Cheap Colleges in South Carolina Offer High-Quality Education?

South Carolina stands out for providing substantial state financial aid, allocating 40% of its higher education budget to aid programs, a stark contrast to the national average of 11 percent.

This commitment makes pursuing a two or four-year degree affordable at both public and private colleges in the state.

What's noteworthy is the accessibility of scholarships, with most state-administered ones requiring academic performance rather than complex applications.

South Carolina's three tiers of merit scholarships further ensure that a broad spectrum of above-average students can benefit from financial support, making cheap colleges in South Carolina a viable option without compromising on educational quality.

In-State Vs. Out-of-State Tuition Rates

In-state versus out-of-state tuition rates boil down to a straightforward principle: students residing in the same state as their college or university enjoy lower tuition costs compared to their out-of-state counterparts.

The extent of this price differential varies across educational institutions, often leading to perplexity among new enrollees and their families.

The rationale behind this discrepancy lies in the fact that families of out-of-state students haven't contributed to the local state government through taxes, providing grounds for institutions to charge them a higher rate than families residing within the state.

Find an Affordable College in South Carolina Today

Uncover academic treasures without breaking the bank in the Palmetto State. With our guide to the cheapest colleges in South Carolina, you're not just choosing a school; you're investing in a tuition tale that leaves your wallet smiling.