University of South Carolina Graduate Application Fee Waiver, Funding, and Opportunities

The University of South Carolina (USC) offers more than 230 graduate degree programs across multiple disciplines, welcoming students from around the world to join a vibrant academic community. Whether you are pursuing a master’s, specialist, doctoral, or certificate program, USC provides an accessible application process, competitive funding, and a wide range of academic opportunities.

Application Overview

Application Fee

• The $50 graduate application fee is waived for all applicants until further notice.
• No waiver code is required when applying through USC’s ApplyWeb portal.
• Additional fees may apply for applications submitted through discipline-specific vendors (e.g., Nursing, Business, or Public Health).

Application Types

• General Graduate School Application: For most programs, including fall (applications open the prior September), spring (open in January), and summer (open in May).
• Special Applications:
• Moore School of Business
• Arnold School of Public Health
• College of Nursing
• Professional Programs:
• Doctor of Jurisprudence (Law)
• Doctor of Medicine
• Doctor of Pharmacy

Required Application Materials

• Bachelor’s Degree (or international equivalent)
• Official Transcripts from all institutions attended
• Standardized Test Scores (GRE, GMAT, MAT, MCAT, etc., depending on program)
• Letters of Recommendation (program-specific requirements)
• Statement of Purpose (outlining research goals and academic fit)
• Resume, Writing Samples, or Portfolios (for selected programs)
• English Proficiency Tests (TOEFL, IELTS, PTE, or Duolingo for non-native English speakers)

Official test scores must be sent directly to USC using the following codes:

• GRE: 5818
• MAT: 1719
• GMAT: JV2
• TOEFL: 5818
• IELTS: Select “University of South Carolina, Columbia Graduate Admissions”

For full details, visit the Degree Programs & Application Requirements page.

Funding Opportunities

Graduate education at USC is supported by a variety of funding mechanisms designed to reduce costs and provide professional development.

Graduate Assistantships

• Available in teaching, research, and administrative roles
• Provide a stipend and often a tuition reduction
• Offer valuable academic and professional experience

Fellowships and Scholarships

• Awarded based on academic achievement, leadership potential, or research promise
• Many are competitive, university-wide fellowships managed by the Graduate School
• Discipline-specific scholarships are also available through individual programs

Tuition Support

• In-state tuition rates are often extended to graduate assistants
• Combination degree programs may also reduce the number of required credits, lowering expenses

External Funding

• USC encourages students to apply for national and international fellowships such as Fulbright, NSF, and other research grants
• Dedicated staff support students in preparing strong applications

International Applicants

USC welcomes a large number of international graduate students each year. Key requirements include:

• Official transcripts with certified English translations (if applicable)
• Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, PTE, or Duolingo)
• Financial certification documents (for visa purposes)

International students also have access to funding opportunities, though availability may vary by program.

More details are available on the International Applicants page.

Graduate Life and Professional Development

With 6,400+ graduate students enrolled, USC offers a thriving academic environment. Graduate students benefit from:

• Professional development workshops through myHub
• Career services tailored to graduate education
• Opportunities to participate in interdisciplinary research projects
• Access to a supportive community across diverse fields of study

Why Choose the University of South Carolina?

• 230+ graduate programs across multiple disciplines
• Application fee waived for all applicants (limited time)
• Strong funding and assistantship opportunities
• A welcoming community for both domestic and international students
• Access to world-class faculty and research facilities

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For more details, visit the University of South Carolina Graduate School.