University of South Carolina

Location

United States - Columbia

Semesters Dates

Fall Semester: Mid-August – Mid-December Spring Semester: Early/Mid-January – Early May Summer Session: Mid-May – End of July

Language of Instruction

English

Academic Programs offered to Exchange Students

https://sc.edu/about/offices_and_divisions/registrar/academic_calendars/2025-26_calendar.php

How many students can be nominated per semester?

2

Visa requirements/​steps
https://sc.edu/about/offices_and_divisions/international_student_and_scholar_support/iss/prospective-students/obtain_a_visa/index.php?utm_source=chatgpt.com
Academic Calendar

Fall - Nomination Deadline
Fall Semester: March 1

Fall - Application Deadline
Fall Semester: March 1

Spring - Nomination Deadline
Spring Semester: October 1

Spring - Application Deadline
Spring Semester: October 1

Eligibility Requirements

Exchange students must be officially nominated by their home institution. Applicants are generally expected to have completed at least one year of undergraduate study and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. Proficiency in English is required, ty

Application Requirements

https://uscips.wufoo.com/forms/zat7cio096ndze/ After nomination, students must complete the University of South Carolina's exchange application process, which includes submitting academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency, a passport copy, and

Accommodation Options

Exchange students can choose between on-campus housing and off-campus accommodations. On-campus housing provides a convenient living environment, while off-campus options offer more independence.

Estimated Accommodation Fee

On-Campus Housing: Approximately $10,336 per academic year Off-Campus Housing: Varies based on location and amenities

Estimated Visa Fee

Estimated Visa Fees SEVIS Fee: $220​ J-1 Visa Application Fee: $160​

Insurance Requirements

Exchange students are required to have health insurance that meets the university's standards, including coverage for medical evacuation and repatriation. Students can either enroll in the university's health insurance plan or provide proof of equivalent

Insurance Fee

he insurance costs for 2022-2023 have not been updated yet, but they will be similar to the costs for 2021-2022.

International Student details and fee

The health insurance fee for international students at the University of South Carolina is $3,205 USD per academic year (or $1,355.29 for Fall and $1,849.71 for Spring/Summer), unless students provide proof of equivalent coverage meeting university requir

Academic Support

Academic support includes access to peer tutors, academic success workshops, and dedicated academic advisors.

Airport Pick-up/​Drop-off

No. The university does not provide a standard airport pickup or drop-off service for exchange students.

Student life support

Yes. There is strong support for student life, including orientation, student clubs, cultural events, and peer mentoring to help international students integrate. Specify (e.g., peer leaders): Support includes international peer mentors, student ambassad

Disability and Counselling Services
Contact details of the Incoming Students Coordinator

International Student Services University of South Carolina Close-Hipp Suite 650, 1705 College Street, Columbia, SC 29208, USA ???? Email: iss@sc.edu ???? Phone: +1 (803) 777-7461

Safety Guidelines and Covid-19 restrictions
Student Life and Activities
Medical Requirements

Yes. All international students are required to have health insurance that meets university standards, and must submit proof of immunizations, including MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella), and tuberculosis screening results prior to enrollment. Please specif

Career Services

Yes. The Career Center provides career counseling, job and internship search support, CV/resume workshops, and regular career fairs for all students, including exchange students.

Ways for transportation

Yes. Columbia offers extensive public transportation, including buses operated by the COMET system, as well as bike-sharing and rideshare options. Many students use these services to commute around campus and the city. Details of transport: The COMET bus

Summer & Short-term Programs

The University of South Carolina offers summer sessions and various short-term programs in subjects like Business, Language, and STEM, which are open to both local and international students depending on availability.