Scholarships & College Funding
Use this page to find scholarships and understand major South Carolina funding options. Most scholarships and state aid programs require the FAFSA and have early deadlines—apply as soon as possible.
South Carolina Scholarship & Grant Programs (At-a-Glance)
For current award amounts, GPA/test details, and rules, always refer to the SC Commission on Higher Education (CHE) page linked above.
Palmetto Fellows
- For SC residents attending eligible 4-year colleges.
- High academic achievement; school nomination required.
- Possible math/science enhancement in later years.
- See CHE for eligibility & amounts.
LIFE Scholarship (4-Year)
- For SC residents at eligible 4-year colleges.
- Meet 2 of 3: GPA, class rank, or test score (see CHE).
- Possible math/science enhancement after year 1.
- Details on CHE.
LIFE Scholarship (2-Year)
- For SC residents at 2-year/community/technical colleges.
- Academic criteria set by CHE; check current rules.
- Details on CHE.
HOPE Scholarship
- First-year award at eligible 4-year colleges.
- For students who don’t initially meet LIFE/Palmetto Fellows.
- Details on CHE.
Lottery Tuition Assistance (LTA)
- For SC residents enrolled at eligible 2-year/technical colleges.
- FAFSA typically required; award depends on funding.
- Details on CHE.
Find & Apply for Scholarships
Search widely and apply often. Start with local options, then expand to state, college, and national opportunities.
SPHS Scholarship Newsletter (Local) Going Merry RaiseMe (Micro-scholarships) Scholarships.com Scholarship America
Application Tips
- Prioritize local scholarships—fewer applicants, better odds.
- Meet every deadline. Many close Jan–April.
- Request transcripts and recommendations early.
- Reuse essay themes; tailor to each prompt.
- Track submissions and results to stay organized.
Questions? The School Counseling Office can help with scholarship searches, FAFSA, and award letters.
