Enrollment Services

Admissions

Charleston Southern University (CSU) admits students of any race, color, national or ethnic origin and does not discriminate on the basis of religion, disability or sex. Degree-seeking candidates for admission to the University are evaluated for admission to the University on the basis of the following criteria:

1. Potential ability as indicated by high school curriculum, grades, GPA or GPA and class rank. Students transferring from other post-secondary institutions or seeking readmission to CSU will be evaluated based on the records from all regionally accredited institutions attended.
2. Entering freshmen with an unweighted GPA ranging between 2.5 and 3.75 must provide a personal essay. Additionally, freshman applicants with an unweighted GPA ranging between 2. 5 and 3.5 must provide a resume to complete their admission file.
3. Submission of SAT, ACT, or CLT scores is required for all freshman applicants with less than a 2.5 unweighted GPA. Transfer or returning students with sufficient acceptable credit are not required to forward standardized scores unless requested.
4. The personal recommendations of individuals such as the applicant’s pastor, principal, guidance counselor, and teachers are considered.
5. Graduation from an approved secondary school.
6. A General Education Development Test (GED) will be accepted.

Procedure for Freshmen Applicants

1. Submit an online application at www.charlestonsouthern.edu/apply.
2. High school students must submit a copy of their high school transcript during the application process. An unofficial copy of the high school transcript may be submitted for admission. A final and official transcript must be sent upon high school graduation.
3. Submit a personal essay, resume, and/or SAT, ACT, or CLT scores. Information regarding dates and locations of SAT (www.collegeboard.com), ACT (www.actstudent.org), or CLT (www.cltexam.com) tests may be obtained from high school counselors or online. Unofficial copies of test scores may be submitted for admission, but official scores are required at the time of enrollment. 
4. Students holding an equivalency high school diploma must provide official GED scores and a transcript of all high school coursework completed.
5. After acceptance by the University, the prospective full-time student must send a $300.00 enrollment fee to the Enrollment Services Office. The enrollment fee is nonrefundable and applies toward tuition.

Procedure for Home-Schooled Applicants

Home-schooled students applying for admission to CSU must meet the following requirements:

1. An official transcript must be submitted, indicating grades, curriculum employed and a cumulative GPA;
2. the student must have satisfied relevant educational requirements for the state in which the student was a resident; and
3. the student must meet the same admissions requirements as other incoming high school students.

Procedure for Transfer and Readmission Applicants

1. Submit an online application at www.charlestonsouthern.edu/apply.
2. Submit official transcripts from all colleges previously attended. Transfer students may be admitted to CSU without submitting standardized scores and a high school transcript under the following conditions
   1. The transfer student has successfully completed at least 24 transferable credit hours at a regionally accredited college or university;
   2. earned a minimum cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) of 2.0 (on a 4 -point scale) in the transferable credit hours; and
   3. courses equivalent to
      MATH 105
        or MATH 111  and ENGL 111  at CSU are included in the transferable credit hours.

Students not meeting these requirements are required to submit official SAT or ACT scores and an official high school transcript. At the discretion of the Enrollment Services Office, students meeting the above requirements may be required to submit SAT or ACT scores and/or high school transcripts.

4. Any student with transfer credit for
   MATH 105
     or MATH 111  or higher-level algebra or calculus course or Advanced Placement (AP) credit for calculus (all less than five years old) will be permitted to register in the next subsequent course.
5. After acceptance by the University, the prospective full-time student must send a $300.00 nonrefundable enrollment fee to the Enrollment Services Office. This enrollment fee applies toward tuition.
6. Transfer credit will be brought into CSU as hours earned and letter grade but not the quality points. Transfer students must provide official documentation of credits earned, and all transfer credits must be approved by the Registrar. Credit that is to be applied toward a major or a minor must be approved by the Registrar and/or the Department Chairperson.
7. Readmission: Any student returning to CSU after missing one or more semester (fall or spring) will be required to submit an application for admission. Students must provide official transcripts of all coursework completed after leaving CSU. Admissions acceptance will be based on the student’s academic records.

Transfer Admission Requirements for CSU Online:

1. Complete an application for admission to Charleston Southern Online and indicate a preference to enroll in an all online study.
2. Submit official transcripts from ALL previously attended institutions of higher learning.
3. Receive a 2.0 or high overall GPA. Must have successfully completed a general college level English (100 level or above) and a general college math (100 level or above).

High School Admissions Requirements for CSU Online:

1. Complete an application for admission to Charleston Southern Online and indicate a preference to enroll in an all online study.
2. Submit official high school transcripts.
3. Receive a 2.0 or higher overall GPA. Must have successfully completed 4 years of English and math courses with a 2.0 or higher.

Time Limitations on Credit

Some departments have established policies stating older courses may not be used to meet major or minor requirements or their prerequisites. Older courses that are not required for one’s major or minor may be used to satisfy Liberal Arts Core requirements, or may be accepted as general electives.

The following majors (and minors if applicable) are subject to the above departmental limitations:

 Policy application guidelines:

• The age of credit is established from the date classes begin for the term a student attends after being admitted or readmitted. The age of credit will be recalculated if the student leaves CSU for at least two consecutive semesters (fall and spring). If a student leaves the University for two consecutive semesters and later returns, the student is subject to the Undergraduate Catalog and regulations in effect at the time of matriculation.

Transcript Bankruptcy

The University has established a process for students to request their CSU undergraduate transcripts to be “bankrupt” when being readmitted to the University after a period of time.

1. At least five calendar years must have passed since the student last attended CSU, and the student’s academic record must show at least 24 credit hours attempted in residence.
2. The student must apply for readmission and will be subject to current guidelines regarding transfer credit. Along with the Application for Admission, the student must submit a letter requesting academic transcript bankruptcy. The letter should describe the student’s current academic goals and plans to achieve academic success. This letter will be forwarded to the Registrar for review during the readmission process.
3. The University Registrar will submit recommendations to the Director of Admissions regarding acceptance and conditions of enrollment which will include mathematics and English placement. After the student is readmitted through Enrollment Services, the Registrar will notify the student about the conditions of transcript bankruptcy as described in this policy.
4. All previous CSU credit will be disregarded with respect to any degree requirements. The prior academic record, including terms, course titles, grades and credit hours attempted will remain a part of the student’s transcript. However, the prior academic record will not include credit hours earned or grade points. The transcript will indicate “Transcript Bankruptcy Approved on (date)” under the last term included under the bankruptcy. The student will be subject to the current Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) scale as it applies to total credit hours attempted and the minimum GPA required to be in good academic standing for all new credit attempted. For example, if the number of bankrupt hours attempted is 62 and the student is now registered for 6 new hours, the total attempted hours will be 68, and the student is subject to earning a minimum GPA of 1.8 to be in good standing. If a student’s bankrupt hours attempted total 91or more, a minimum GPA of 2.0 must be maintained beginning with the first new term attended to be in good standing. Students should contact CSU Enrollment Services Counselors regarding limitations on the maximum number of attempted undergraduate hours permitted for financial aid.
5. The student will be subject to all current policies and procedures, and to the current undergraduate catalog when matriculation occurs.
6. The student may not elect to reverse the decision to declare transcript bankruptcy once it has been approved, and the student has enrolled.
7. Any student that has been granted transcript bankruptcy will not be eligible for any academic honors at CSU.

Procedure for International Students

We warmly welcome academically qualified students from other countries to apply for admission to Charleston Southern University. Applicants must be sufficiently proficient in English to be able to study entirely in the English language. The following must be sent to the Enrollment Services Office:

1. An online application at www.charlestonsouthern.edu.
2. Copy of current passport.  If already in the U.S. a copy of your visa and I-94 with travel history are also required.
3. Official high school transcripts and/or college transcripts from all institutions attended sent directly from the institution. Transcripts and any additional documents in a language other than English must be accompanied by an official English translation. Transcripts from a non-American high school or college outside of the U.S. require evaluation by World Education Services, Inc. or another accredited member of NACES. Transcripts from a non-American high school or college outside of the U.S. require evaluation by an accredited member of NACES.
4. Official SAT or ACT score reports sent directly from the respective testing agency for students who have graduated from an American-based high school or who are native English speakers.
5. English proficiency score reports sent directly from the testing agency for students from non-English speaking countries. CSU will accept the following minimum scores from these English Proficiency Exams:

• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): 71 (internet-based)
• IELTS (International English Language Testing System): 6.0
• Duolingo English Test: 100
• Pearson Test of English (Academic): 51
• iTEP (International Test of English Proficiency): 3.7
• SAT (Evidence-Based Reading and Writing): 530
• CSU may conditionally admit international students without an English proficiency test score result if they have successfully completed and graduated from an approved Intensive English Program. For a list of approved Intensive English Programs, contact the International Student Enrollment Counselor in CSU’s Admissions Office.

CSU may conditionally admit international students without an English proficiency test score result if they have successfully completed and graduated from an approved Intensive English Program. For a list of approved Intensive English Programs, contact the International Student Enrollment Counselor in CSU’s Admissions Office.

6. A completed International Student Financial Statement and accompanying bank statement. The Tuition and Room & Board Fees section show the total amount in U.S. dollars you must have on the financial statement minus any confirmed financial aid. In the event an individual or company is sponsoring a student, an Affidavit of Support and supporting financial documents must be submitted by the sponsor on behalf of the student.
7. An International Student Eligibility Form completed by the International Student Advisor or Designated School Official for F-1 students who transfer from a U.S. college, university, or high school. In addition, copies of current I-20, visa, and I-94 with travel history should be submitted.

The deadline for admission applications from international students is two calendar months prior to “the first day of classes” (according to the CSU Academic Calendar) of the academic term of entry. Applications received after the deadline may be considered for a future entry term if the applicant desires.

Institutional Scholarships and Athletic Grants-in-Aid are available to qualified International students. Otherwise, students entering Charleston Southern University assume full financial responsibility for tuition and charges incurred.

In the event an individual or company is sponsoring a student, an Affidavit of Support and supporting financial documents must be submitted by the sponsor on behalf of the student. After issuance of Form 1-20 and prior to the drop/add deadline of the respective term, an advance cash deposit is required to be on file within the Business Office in the amount of the total cost of the term, including any necessary insurance premium. Otherwise, Charleston Southern University reserves the right to deny the student attendance for that term.

Types of Acceptance and Admissions Standards

1. Regular
   
   A student who has met all admission requirements and is pursuing a degree (or teacher certification only). Regular acceptance also includes students who are assigned the academic standing of Probation 1 or Probation 2. Regularly accepted students may take the mathematics placement exam in order to determine their initial math class at Charleston Southern University.
   
   Freshman Applicant Admissions Requirements:
   • Minimum of College Preparatory curriculum in high school, the student should have a GPA of at least2.0in his or her core classes. Classes to include 4 years English; 3 years mathematics (including Algebra I & II and Geometry or higher); 3 years science (including 2 lab sciences); and 3 years history or social sciences.
   • A freshman applicant whose unweighted GPA (on a 4.0 scale) is 3.75 or higher is required only to submit a high school transcript for regular admission.
   • Minimum SAT* scores required for the Regular acceptance of new freshmen: Evidence-based Reading and Writing = 530, Math = 490 (*Note: These SAT scores are based on the redesigned SAT.)
     OR a minimum ACT composite score of 19. All subscores in each category must be a minimum of 19 for Regular admissions consideration OR a minimum CLT score of 64.
   • In addition to standardized test scores, dual-enrollment coursework and other information may be used in the admissions process.
2. The Bridge Program
   
   A student determined to have potential difficulty with a regular freshman course load may be admitted by approval of the Director of the Bridge Program and/or the Director of Undergraduate Admissions and given a course load which must include a Bridge Program curriculum. Students who are accepted into this program must pass all of their Bridge courses during the first thirty (30) hours attempted in order to continue their studies at Charleston Southern University. Exceptions made due to class availability will be determined by the Director of the Bridge Program. Students admitted in the Bridge Program that includes Bridge mathematics will be registered in Math 099 during one of their first two semesters of attendance. However, some students may complete Bridge Program requirements during the summer just prior to their first semester by enrolling in the Summer Bridge Academy at CSU. See more about The Bridge Program in this catalog.
   
   Freshman Applicant Admissions Requirements:
    
   1. For the student who has taken a College Preparatory curriculum in high school, the student should have a GPA of at least 2.0 in his or her core classes. Classes to include 4 years English; 3 years mathematics (including Algebra I & II and Geometry or higher); 3 years science (including 2 lab sciences); and 3 years history or social sciences.
   2. For the student who has taken a combination of College Prep., Tech. Prep., and General courses in high school, the student should have a GPA of at least 2.5 in his or her core classes. Classes to include 4 years English; 3 years mathematics (including Algebra I & II and Geometry); 3 years science (at least 2 lab sciences); and 3 years history or social sciences.
      • Minimum SAT* scores required for the Bridge Program acceptance of new freshmen: Evidence-based Reading and Writing = 450 / Math = 440 (Note: These SAT scores are based on the redesigned SAT.)
        OR a minimum ACT score of 17 in English, 17 in Math, and a minimum ACT score of 15 in Reading and Science OR a minimum CLT score of 57.
      • In addition to standardized test scores, dual-enrollment coursework and other information may be used in the admissions process.
3. Provisional  

a.     A student seeking a degree from Charleston Southern University who has not submitted all the required material for regular admission. Such a student may be accepted on the provision that he or she submit the required material as determined by the Admissions Office prior to preregistration for the next term. Enrollment may only include one Fall or Spring semester and may not exceed 15 credit hours during this period. Graduate students should refer to the appropriate section of the most current Graduate Catalog for credit hour limitations under Provisional Status.

b.    Students over twenty-one years of age may be admitted under this classification if they do not have SAT/ACT/CLT scores and do not qualify as a transfer student. Such students are not required to take the SAT, ACT, or CLT but must submit evidence of academic potential. Any provisionally admitted student over twenty-one years of age who does not receive transfer credit for a mathematics course toward the fulfillment of the LAC (Liberal Arts Core) requirement in mathematics, or credit for a course equivalent to MATH 099, and does not have a current SAT and/or ACT score (less than five years old), has two options:

·         Option 1:  Take the mathematics placement exam ONCE, prior to enrolling in their first major semester and prior to registering for any mathematics course.  This exam will be used to determine whether a student is allowed to register for a freshman-level (or higher) mathematics course, or if they must first complete MATH 099, Beginning Algebra (Students receive institutional credit only). 

·         Option 2:  Those who do not take the mathematics placement exam according to Option 1 above must successfully complete MATH 099, Beginning Algebra, before registering for a higher mathematics course at CSU.   

Regardless of which option (above) is chosen, all students placed into Mathematics 099 will be required to pass MATH 099 during their first two major semesters (fall and spring).  In addition, students admitted under this status must also pass English 111 during their first two major semesters (fall and spring) at CSU or have acceptable equivalent transfer credit prior to attending CSU.  Students who do not meet these requirements will not be allowed to continue at CSU and must complete the transferable equivalent of (1) Mathematics 099 or higher acceptable course, and/or (2) English 111 at another institution before being readmitted at CSU. 

 Once students provide evidence of mathematics proficiency at the Math 099 level or higher, they may then satisfy the liberal arts core requirements in mathematics by successfully completing Math 105 or higher level course(s), depending on one’s major and/or minor requirements.  Having successfully earned credit for English 111 allows students to enroll in English 112.  Refer to the CSU Undergraduate Catalog for other Liberal Arts Core requirements.  

4. Special

Students not seeking a degree at Charleston Southern University. This category includes high school students enrolled in honors programs, CSU Scholars Academy students, transient students seeking educational certification or re-certification, and others taking personal interest courses. Undergraduate students may take up to 15 hours under this classification before being required to apply for acceptance as “regular” or degree-seeking (or teacher “certification only”) students. Students accepted under Special Status are not eligible to receive financial aid at Charleston Southern University.

     5.  No Scores

A freshman applicant with an unweighted GPA (on a 4.0 scale) ranging between 2.5 and 3.75 may complete the admission process without standardized test scores. Upon review of required admission documents, the Office of Undergraduate Admissions will confirm the student’s eligibility for admission with the No Scores acceptance type. Prior to registration, the student must confirm academic placement with

• SAT, ACT, or CLT scores, OR
• Dual-enrollment coursework, AP exam scores, or IB exam scores, OR
• A CSU English and/or Math placement exam

Upon receipt and review of one of the above, the acceptance type will be updated to Regular, Bridge English, Bridge Math, or Full Bridge.

Note: Bachelor of Science in Organizational Management

All students applying to the University to specifically seek a degree in the Bachelor of Science in Organizational Management program will not be required to take the Math Placement Test as a condition of acceptance.

Transfer Students

A transfer applicant, in order to be accepted to CSU, must be eligible to return to the previously attended institution(s). Transfer students are required to submit an official transcript from all colleges or universities attended, regardless as to whether any course may be transferred in, and must meet current “Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP)” requirements. Students who do not meet the SAP requirements for good standing may be admitted on probation 1 or 2, or be denied admission.

Transfer students may be admitted to CSU without submitting SAT (or ACT) scores and a high school transcript under the following conditions:

1. The transfer student has successfully completed at least 24 transferable credit hours at a regionally accredited college or university,
2. Earned a minimum cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) of 2.0 (on a 4 -point scale) in the transferable credit hours, and
3. Courses equivalent to 
   MATH 105
     or MATH 111  and English 111  at CSU are included in the transferable credit hours.

Students not meeting these requirements are required to submit official SAT, ACT, or CLT scores and an official high school transcript. At the discretion of the Enrollment Services Office, students meeting the above requirements may be required to submit standardized scores and/or high school transcripts.

Acceptance of Home-Schooled Applicants

Home-schooled students applying for admission to CSU must meet the following requirements:

1. An official transcript must be submitted, indicating grades, the curriculum employed and a cumulative GPA,
2. The student must have satisfied relevant educational requirements for the state in which the student was a resident, and
3. The student must meet the same admissions requirements as other incoming high school students.

Financial Aid

Charleston Southern University’s financial aid program is designed to help students complete a college education regardless of their financial situation within federal, state and institutional guidelines. All students are urged to explore the possibilities for financial assistance offered through the Enrollment Services Office. While documented financial need is the primary factor used to determine the amount of financial aid a student receives, the University also offers scholarship programs which recognize and reward talent, athletic ability, and academic achievement.

How to Apply for Financial Aid

1. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at www.fafsa.gov.  Make sure you add CSU to your FAFSA! Our school code is 003419.

2. Apply for your FAFSA every October 1 for the upcoming academic year.

3. All residents of South Carolina and active-duty military families stationed in South Carolina MUST file the FAFSA by June 30 of each year to be considered for a South Carolina Tuition Grant.
4. Once accepted to the university, the Office of Financial Aid will review your FAFSA and create an award package based on your eligibility.

How to Check Your Financial Aid Status Online

Once you are accepted to CSU you can log-in to your MyCSU with your CSU ID and PIN. Click “view your financial aid live” to accept /decline awards, view missing/incomplete documents, and view messages specific to your awards.

Disbursement of Financial Aid

Financial aid will not be disbursed until verification of the student’s financial aid and attendance has been confirmed. Confirmation of student’s attendance takes place at the end of the drop/add period. Documents required for completion of the student’s financial aid must also be received.  Missing documents can be located on the student’s Financial Aid LIVE.

Satisfactory Academic Progress for Financial Aid

In order to be eligible for the renewal of any type of financial aid, students must show evidence of satisfactory progress toward graduation. Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) at Charleston Southern University is defined as successful completion of coursework attempted and progress toward graduation. Although certain scholarships and grants require higher minimum Grade Point Averages (GPA), students must maintain the minimum requirements listed below:

Term and Cumulative GPA

2.0
 

SAP Annual Review

Financial Aid reviews students’ Satisfactory Academic Progress status annually (after spring and after summer).

Maximum attempted hours

Students are eligible to receive financial aid, provided all other requirements of the Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy are met and the number of attempted hours does not exceed 150 percent of the number of hours required for their degree. Transfer credits, WP, WF, and W grades that apply towards the student’s degree will be considered as attempted hours for this purpose. Once a student’s number of attempted hours exceeds 150 percent of the number of hours required for their degree (125), or if it is no longer mathematically possible for the student to complete their degree within the maximum number of attempted hours allowed, the student will be denied eligibility for financial aid.

Example: The Bachelor of Arts degree requires a student to complete at least 125 credit hours. A student may attempt no more than 188 hours (125 times 150%) and still remain eligible to receive financial aid.

Minimum Number of Earned Hours Required

Students are eligible to receive financial aid, provided all other requirements of the Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy are met, and so long as they earn at least 67 percent of attempted hours. Students who do not earn at least 67 percent of their attempted hours will be denied eligibility for financial aid. (See Financial Aid Appeals below). Withdrawn classes in which you receive a grade of “W”, “WP”, “WF”, Incompletes, repeated classes, and transfer credits are all considered attempted hours. Example:  Student has attempted 100 hours but only earned 50 hours. Earned hours divided by attempted hours equals 50% of attempted hours; thus student did not meet 67% required.

Financial Aid SAP Appeals

Students may appeal under any condition that they feel constitutes an extenuating and/or mitigating circumstances and where such circumstances contributed to their not meeting the university’s standard of satisfactory academic progress. Appeals are considered on an individual basis, and the student is notified in writing of the Committee’s decision.  Appeals must be submitted prior to the drop/add period of the term for which the student is appealing, to ensure sufficient funding for the upcoming semester. This can be done by completing a Financial Aid Satisfactory Progress Appeal Form and attaching documentation that supports the appeal. The form can be downloaded by signing into your MyCSU and clicking on your Financial Aid LIVE.

Financial Aid Appeal Process and Requirements

Students who wish to appeal their denied status may do so by completing the Satisfactory Academic Progress Appeal and writing a letter of appeal to the Financial Aid Review Committee. In their letter the student should speak to:

1) the reason or reasons including nature of the problem, dates issue occurred as to why he/she failed to meet University’s Standards of Satisfactory Academic Progress, and;

2) attach any supporting documentation for the appeal and how the issue was resolved and;

3) projected graduation date and;

4) projected GPA and enrollment plan (credit hours and classes you plan to attempt for the academic year) which include your plans to make up any deficiencies in GPA and/or credit hours

The Financial Aid Review Committee reserves the right to require the student to meet with the committee as part of the appeal process.

Approved Appeals

Should a student’s appeal be approved, the student will be placed on financial aid probation for one payment period (semester). At the end of the approved payment period (semester), the student’s academic progress will again be reviewed at which time the student is expected to either 1) have met the university’s standards of satisfactory academic progress or; 2) have met the minimum requirements as called for in their approved academic plan. Students who fail to meet either the university’s standards of satisfactory academic progress or the minimum requirements as called for in their academic plan will again be denied eligibility for financial aid at which time the student will need to submit a subsequent appeal.

Academic Plan

For students who will need more than one payment period to meet the University’s standards of satisfactory academic progress, an approved academic plan will be required as a condition of the approval of the appeal. Should the appeal be approved, the student will be on financial aid probation for one payment period (semester) at which time the student would have expected to have met the minimum requirements as called for in their approved academic plan.  If standards are met, the student will continue financial aid eligibility for the next payment period (semester).  Should the student fail to meet the academic plan requirements, the student will be required to submit a subsequent appeal.

Denied Appeals

Should a student’s appeal be denied, the student will not receive financial aid for the academic year.  The student must meet the University’s Satisfactory Academic Progress standards before being able to receive financial aid for the following academic years.

Removal from financial aid does not prevent a student from enrolling at Charleston Southern University without financial aid if they are otherwise eligible to enroll.

• Students receiving the S.C. Palmetto Fellows Scholarship must earn 30 credit hours within the academic year and maintain a cumulative 3.0 GPA. All college-level courses earned at a college or university in South Carolina will be counted towards your 30 credit hours, but your GPA eligibility will be calculated using only CSU grades. Students receiving our Hamrick Tuition or Hamrick Housing award must maintain the S.C. Palmetto Fellows award for continued eligibility.
• Students receiving the S.C. LIFE Scholarship must earn a cumulative of 30 credit hours each academic year and maintain a cumulative 3.0 GPA. All college-level courses earned at a college or university in South Carolina will be counted towards your 30 credit hours and your GPA eligibility will be calculated using all prior grades.
• Students receiving the S.C. HOPE Scholarship must earn 30 credit hours within the academic year and maintain a cumulative 3.0 GPA to receive an S.C. LIFE Scholarship for the following year. The S.C. HOPE Scholarship is only available for one year.
• English 099 and MATH 099 do not count toward the 30 earned hours required to maintain eligibility for the S.C. Palmetto Fellows, LIFE, or HOPE scholarships. If a student realizes that he or she does not have enough earned hours to meet this requirement, then he or she should discuss this situation with a designated faculty advisor. The student may have to attend summer sessions to maintain eligibility for continued financial aid.

         * See regulations for S.C. HOPE, LIFE, and Palmetto Fellows at http://www.che.sc.gov

• Students receiving the SC Tuition Grant are required to earn 24 credits hours yearly.  This includes the Fall, Spring, and Summer semesters.  Students taking less than full-time hours are required to earn 80% of hours attempted to meet eligibility for the following academic year.

Financial Aid Programs Available at CSU

All aid must be used exclusively for the costs of attendance. Before you receive any funds, you must sign a statement of Educational Purpose, and the Anti-Drug Abuse Act Certification, stating that you understand this requirement and agree to the restrictions it imposes. These statements are located within the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Federal and State

Financial assistance is available through the following programs. The amount of assistance you qualify for will be based on your financial need as determined by each program. Early application is very important for all types of aid.

Federal Financial Aid

Federal Pell Grant - Federal grant based on financial need determined by completing the FAFSA. Eligible students may receive up to $6,895 for the year, depending on need and hours enrolled each semester.

Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (SEOG) - Federal grant reserved for full Pell-eligible students. Students must complete the FAFSA to be considered. Award amounts up to $1,000 a year. Limited campus funding.

Federal College Work-Study - Federal Work-Study is awarded based on federal eligibility criteria and the availability of funds. Students who have been awarded Federal Work-Study on their financial aid award letter will be notified during the summer of the additional information required to secure a job on campus.

Work-Study is considered part-time student employment; therefore, the wages earned are taxed.

All work-study related questions should be directed to the Student Employment Coordinator at 843-863-8067.

Direct Federal Subsidized Stafford Loan for Undergraduate Students - Federal student loan in the student’s name and has an interest rate of 3.73%  for students who take out a Direct Federal Subsidized Stafford Loan between July 2, 2021 and July 1, 2022. The interest rate does not accrue while the student is enrolled. There is a six month grace period after the student graduates or ceases to be enrolled at least half-time (6 credit hours) during a major semester before repayment on the loan begins.  Students are required to complete a Master Promissory Note and Direct Loan Entrance Counseling to receive this loan.  This process can be done by visiting Complete the Financial Aid Process | Federal Student Aid and signing in with your FAFSA ID and password.  The Financial Aid Office with receive notification of completion electronically from the Department of Education. There is a 1.057% loan fee that is taken out prior to the disbursement of the loan if disbursed after October 1, 2020. Fees are subject to change per government regulations.

Direct Federal Unsubsidized Stafford Loan for Undergraduate Students - The same as a Subsidized Stafford Loan except the interest does accrue while the student is enrolled. The interest has an interest rate of 5.28% for students who take out a Direct Federal Unsubsidized Stafford Loan between July 2, 2021 and July 1, 2022 and can be paid quarterly or allowed to accrue and be capitalized to the principal. There is a six month grace period after the student graduates or ceases to be enrolled at least half-time (6 credit hours) during a major semester before repayment on the loan begins.  Students are required to complete a Master Promissory Note and Direct Loan Entrance Counseling to receive this loan.  This process can be done by visiting Complete the Financial Aid Process | Federal Student Aid  and signing in with your FAFSA ID and password.  The Financial Aid Office with receive notification of completion electronically from the Department of Education.  There is a 1.057% loan fee that is taken out prior to the disbursement of the loan if disbursed after October 1, 2020. Fees are subject to change per government regulations. 

Direct Federal Unsubsidized Stafford Loan for Graduate Students - The same as a Subsidized Stafford Loan except the interest does accrue while the student is enrolled. The interest has an interest rate of 4.30% for students who take out a Direct Federal Unsubsidized Stafford Loan between July 2, 2020 and July 1, 2021 and can be paid quarterly or allowed to accrue and be capitalized to the principal. There is a six month grace period after the student graduates or ceases to be enrolled at least half-time (6 credit hours) during a major semester before repayment on the loan begins.  Students are required to complete a Master Promissory Note and Direct Loan Entrance Counseling to receive this loan.  This process can be done by visiting Complete the Financial Aid Process | Federal Student Aid  and signing in with your FAFSA ID and password.  The Financial Aid Office with receive notification of completion electronically from the Department of Education.  There is a 1.057% loan fee that is taken out prior to the disbursement of the loan if disbursed after October 1, 2020. Fees are subject to change per government regulations.

Direct Federal Parent Loan for Undergraduate Students (PLUS) Loan- This is a loan in the parent’s name. The PLUS has a fixed interest rate of 6.28% for students who take out a Direct Federal PLUS Loan between July 2, 2021 and July 1, 2022. This loan goes into repayment 60 days after the loan is disbursed. The amount of repayment depends on the total borrowed. There are no prepayment penalties. The amount of the loan is subject to loan approval. If parents are determined to be ineligible for a PLUS Loan, students may be eligible to receive additional Unsubsidized Stafford Loan.  Parents are required to complete a Master Promissory Note to receive this loan.  This process can be done by visiting Complete the Financial Aid Process | Federal Student Aid  and signing in with the parent’s FAFSA ID and password.  The Financial Aid Office will receive notification of completion electronically from the Department of Education. There is a 4.228% loan fee that is taken out prior to the disbursement of the loan if disbursed after October 1, 2020. Fees are subject to change per government regulations.

Graduate PLUS Loan for Graduate Students Only - This loan is in the student’s name. Students must be credit-worthy in order to receive this loan. The Grad PLUS has a fixed interest rate of 6.28% for students who take out a Direct Federal Grad PLUS Loan between July 2, 2021 and July 1, 2022. Students must be enrolled at least half-time (3 credit hours). Students are required to complete a Master Promissory Note to receive this loan. This process can be done by visiting Complete the Financial Aid Process | Federal Student Aid . The interest rate is fixed at 7.08% for loans disbursed after July 1, 21 (rates will be different for loans received prior this date). There is a 4.228% loan fee that is taken out prior to the disbursement of the loan if disbursed after October 1, 2020. Fees are subject to change per government regulations.

State Scholarships

South Carolina HOPE Scholarship
S.C. Commission on Higher Education -

http://www.che.sc.gov/Students,FamiliesMilitary/PayingForCollege/FinancialAssistanceAvailable/ScholarshipsGrantsforSCResidents/SCHOPEScholarshipProgram.aspx
803-737-2260 or toll-free at 877-349-7183

The S.C. Hope Scholarship Program was established under the S.C. Education Lottery Act in 2001. It is a one-year merit-based scholarship created for eligible first-time entering freshmen attending a four-year institution. Eligible full-time students may receive up to the following award amount:

• Up to $2,800 towards the cost of attendance.

Initial Eligibility Requirements:

• Must earn a cumulative 3.0 GPA on uniform Grading Scale upon high school graduation;
• Must be a South Carolina resident at the time of high school graduation and college enrollment;
• Must not be a recipient of the Palmetto Fellows Scholarship or LIFE; and
• Must meet all residency criteria.

There is no application required for the S.C. HOPE Scholarship. CSU students should complete the FAFSA online at www.fafsa.gov and will be notified of their financial aid award letter if eligible for the scholarship.

Renewal Requirements:

• The HOPE Scholarship is for the first year only.
• Students must earn a cumulative 3.0 GPA and 30 credit hours (excluding Bridge Program Math 099 and English 099 classes) to receive the S.C. LIFE Scholarship for subsequent years.
• Must meet all residency criteria.

South Carolina LIFE Scholarship Program
S.C. Commission on Higher Education -  http://www.che.sc.gov/Students,FamiliesMilitary/PayingForCollege/FinancialAssistanceAvailable/ScholarshipsGrantsforSCResidents/LIFEScholarshipProgram.aspx
803-737-2260 or toll-free at 877-349-7183

The South Carolina General Assembly established the Legislative Incentives for Future Excellence (LIFE) Program in 1998 to increase access to higher education, improve the employability of South Carolina’s students, provide incentives for students to be better prepared for college, and to encourage students to graduate from college on time. Eligible full-time students may receive awards as follows:

• Up to $5,000 towards the cost of attendance
• Limited to eight semesters from high school graduation

Initial eligibility:

• Graduate from high school with a cumulative 3.0 GPA based on the Uniform Grading Scale;
• Be a South Carolina resident at the time of high school graduation and college enrollment;
• Not be a recipient of the Palmetto Fellows Scholarship or S.C. HOPE Scholarship; and
• Meet all the residency criteria.

Students must meet two of the following three criteria:

1. Cumulative 3.0 GPA based on the Uniform Grading Scale;
2. Rank in the top 30 percent of graduating class; or
3. Score an 1100 SAT or 24 ACT.

There is no application required for the LIFE Scholarship. CSU students should complete the FAFSA online at www.fafsa.ed.gov and will be notified on their financial aid award letter if eligible for the scholarship.

Renewal requirements:

• Meet all residency criteria
• Earn cumulative 3.0 GPA by the end of each academic year (including all grades earned at eligible S.C. institutions excluding remedial, continuing education, nondegree credit courses)
• Earn an average of 30 nonremedial credit hours by the end of each academic year (including all hours earned at eligible S.C. institutions excluding remedial, continuing education, nondegree credit courses)

SC LIFE Enhancement
Math and science majors who receive the S.C. LIFE Scholarship may be eligible to receive the S.C. LIFE Enhancement for their second, third, and fourth years of college. The S.C. LIFE Enhancement may be awarded up to $2,500 per year. In order to qualify, students must receive the S.C. LIFE Scholarship, be in an eligible math or science major by the first day of classes for their second, third, and fourth years, and have taken 14 hours of math or science courses during their first year of college enrollment.

South Carolina Palmetto Fellows
S.C. Commission on Higher Education -                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          https://www.che.sc.gov/Portals/0/CHE_Docs/studentservices/scholarship_brochure_updated.pdf?ver=2019-05-24-144434-653
803-737-2260 or toll-free at 877-349-7183

The South Carolina General Assembly established the Palmetto Fellows Scholarship program in 1988 to retain academically talented high school graduates in the state through awards based on merit. Eligible full-time students may receive up to the following award amount: Up to $6,700 for the first year, $7,500 for second, third, and fourth years annually towards the cost of attendance at an eligible senior institution in South Carolina.

Initial Eligibility Requirements:

Application for early awards must be submitted to the Commission on Higher Education for the Palmetto Fellows Scholarship by the date established in December each academic year. Students must meet the following three academic criteria in order to be eligible to apply for the early awards:

• Score at least 1200 on the SAT or 27 on the ACT. Test scores must be submitted to the Commission on Higher Education by no later than the established deadline in December;
• Earn a cumulative 3.50 GPA on the UGS at the end of the junior year; and
• Rank in the top six percent of the class at the end of either sophomore or junior year.

Applications for final awards must be submitted to the Commission on Higher Education for the Palmetto Fellows Scholarship by the date established in June each academic year. Students must meet the following three academic criteria in order to be eligible to apply for the final awards:

• Score at least 1200 on the SAT or 27 on the ACT. Test scores will be accepted through June of the senior year;
• Earn a cumulative 3.50 GPA on the UGS at the end of the senior year;
• Rank in the top 6% of the class at the end of the senior year.
• Meet residency requirements

Students must not be a recipient of the S.C. LIFE Scholarship or S.C. HOPE Scholarship.

All applicants, including home-schooled students, are required to provide class rank order to be eligible to apply. For home-school students, class rank is available through either the home school association or through the high school within the student’s required attendance zone.

For application information, please contact the high school guidance counselor if you meet the above criteria.

Renewal requirements:

• Meet all general eligibility criteria
• Earn cumulative 3.0 GPA at CSU by the end of each academic year (excluding remedial courses)
• Earn 30 nonremedial credit hours by the end of each academic year (including all hours earned at eligible S.C. institutions during the year excluding remedial, continuing education, nondegree credit courses)
• Meet residency requirements

Palmetto Fellows Enhancement
Math and science majors who receive the Palmetto Fellows Scholarship may be eligible to receive the Palmetto Fellows Enhancement for their second, third, and fourth years of college. The Palmetto Fellows Enhancement may be awarded up to $2,500 per year. In order to qualify, students must receive the Palmetto Fellows Scholarship, be in an eligible math or science major by the first day of classes for their second, third, and fourth years, and have taken 14 hours of math or science courses during their first year of college enrollment. For additional information visit:  https://www.che.sc.gov/Students,FamiliesMilitary/PayingForCollege/FinancialAssistanceAvailable/MathandScienceScholarshipEnhancements.aspx

South Carolina Teacher’s Loan Program
A state-funded loan program for students planning careers as public school teachers. Students must teach in one of several geographic and academic areas determined by the South Carolina Department of Education deemed to have a critical need. This program is only available to students seeking their initial certification. Qualified applicants may borrow according to the same limits as Federal Stafford Loan Program per academic year. If approved, your loan could be repaid by the South Carolina Department of Education on a schedule directly related to your employment. Deadline for completed applications is May 15. For application and additional information visit:  SC Teacher Loan Programs & Forgiveness | South Carolina Student Loan (scstudentloan.org)

South Carolina Tuition Grant
A need-based state-funded program available to eligible students enrolled full time (12 hours per semester). Residents of South Carolina and military-related students who have been stationed in South Carolina for one year as of fall registration are required to apply for this grant. Students must complete FAFSA by June 30 each year. There is a maximum of eight semesters of eligibility to receive this grant.

For initially eligibility, students must meet one of the following criteria:  rank in the top 75% of high school class; 2.7+ GPA; 900+ SAT or 19+ ACT.  Returning students must complete a minimum of 24 credit hours per academic year. Repeated courses, if previously passed, will increase/decrease GPA only, additional hours are not earned.

All SC Tuition Grant-eligible students must:

• Have financial need based off the FAFSA’s Expected Family Contribution
• Be registered as a full-time student (12+hours)
• Be a 1^st degree-seeking undergraduate student
• Submit the FAFSA by June 30
• Submit all verification/residency documentation to the Financial Aid Office by the November 15 deadline each year 

      Failure to submit the required documentation will result in the loss of the SC Tuition Grant for the academic year. For additional information visit:  https://sctuitiongrants.org/

South Carolina Vocational Rehabilitation Department Training Assistance
This training assistance is based upon eligibility criteria for services and is not viewed as an entitlement benefit to a student. An eligible student must be an individual with a physical or mental disability which for such individual constitutes or results in a substantial impediment to employment. The student must also be able to benefit in terms of an employment outcome from the provision of vocational rehabilitation services and requires such services to prepare for, enter into, engage in, or retain gainful employment. Student may seek detailed information about applying and receiving services by contacting the local office of the South Carolina Vocational Rehabilitation Department. Students will also need to apply for Federal financial aid or other funding resources prior to being considered for training assistance.

Charleston Southern University Programs

A number of scholarships and grants, made possible through gifts and endowment income, as well as college¬ funded programs, are available to qualified students. While most awards require demonstrated financial need as defined by federal programs, some are based on academic merit and personal talent. The Office of Enrollment Services will assist you with this process.

Scholarships and awards are a part of your total financial aid package and must be awarded according to the policies of institutional, federal and state programs. There are limitations on the amounts of CSU funded awards students may receive. Please contact the Enrollment Services Office for more information.

Academic Scholarships

Merit-based scholarships are awarded by Charleston Southern University to degree-seeking students who are enrolled full-time. The scholarship amount is determined by the student’s GPA and SAT/ACT score at the time of high school graduation. The scholarship amount may change based on financial need and residency status. This award can be renewed each year by maintaining satisfactory academic progress.

Athletic Scholarship
Scholarships are available to students who qualify both athletically and academically for one of the competitive team sports. Inquiries should be directed to the CSU Athletic Department.

Band Award
Students who participate in the CSU Concert Band or Jazz Band may be eligible to receive a scholarship. An audition is required and can be arranged by contacting the University Band Director at 843-863-7962 in the CSU Horton School of Music.

International Missionary Dependent Award
Awards are made to the dependents of missionaries serving with the International Mission Board of the Southern Baptist Convention. These awards are for semesters only (fall and/or spring) and are up to $3,000 per year for tuition. For consideration, please fill out FAFSA and contact the CSU Financial Aid Office.

Minister’s Dependent Scholarship
Dependents of pastors ordained by the South Carolina Baptist Convention are eligible to receive $1,000 per year. For consideration, please fill out FAFSA and contact the CSU Financial Aid Office.

Music Award
Scholarships may be available to accepted students who participate in music ensembles and maintain a GPA of 2.5 or better. A scholarship audition is required. Auditions can be arranged after a student has filled out the Horton School of Music Application.  Contact the CSU Horton School of Music at 843-863-7962.  One credit hour of studio instruction is required each semester (fall and spring).

Palmetto Boys State and Palmetto Girls State
CSU offers incoming full-time freshmen a Palmetto Boys State Scholarship and Palmetto Girls State Scholarships for $1,000 for 4 years.  Qualifications are acceptance to CSU, first-time, full-time enrollment, 3.0 high school grade point average, minimum 1000 SAT (math and critical reading only) or a composite ACT of 21.  Student must provide a letter of participation and completion of this program.  Scholarships are not awarded above direct costs which include tuition, room, and board (f living on campus) and books. For renewal, students must maintain a Satisfactory Academic Progress.

Student Government Association (SGA) Stipends
Students elected to one of the Student Government Offices are eligible to receive a stipend valued at the amount of the cost for room and board (less other scholarships grants) for the fall and spring semesters during the period they are in office. Inquiries should be addressed to the SGA Office. Stipend eligibility will be determined by the successful completion of SGA Officer duties as evaluated by the CSU Dean of Students.

Student Leadership Scholarship
All graduates of SLU 101, 102, 201, 301 or 401 who meet CSU’s admission standards, and are first-time, full-time freshman are eligible to receive a scholarship of $2,000 per year for 4 years.  Confirmation of completion is required for initial award.  To maintain eligibility of the SLU award students must maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress.

Tour Treasure Grant
Attend an official visit such as a personal tour, Saturday Session, or First Look event with the Office of Admissions between June 2021 and August 2022. To be eligible, a student must enroll as a first-time freshman or transfer student in the fall 2022 term, submit the 2022-2023 FAFSA, and live anywhere in the world outside of Berkeley, Charleston, or Dorchester counties. The Tour Treasure Grant is $1,000 for the 1st year at CSU only.

Endowed & Funded Scholarships
These scholarships are made possible by caring friends of the University who desire that students have the opportunity to obtain a college education. Most are awarded to students enrolled full time and have specific criteria set by the donors. Contact the CSU Financial Aid Office at 843-863-7050 or by email at financialaid@csuniv.edu.

** Scholarships are subject to CSU’s Max Free Aid Policy of tuition if off campus and tuition and room/board is on campus. Hamrick Scholarship students that have CSU covering tuition and room/board will have up to the $10,800 in housing covered.

Military Assistance

ROTC Scholarships
These scholarships are available to students who meet all qualifications designated by the ROTC Department. Scholarships will fund a portion of the full cost of tuition, fees, and books. If you are interested in this program, you should contact 843-863-7408 for the Air Force ROTC and 843-953-5221 for the Army ROTC.

ROTC Housing
Air Force or Army ROTC recipients could qualify for a portion or full coverage of their housing at CSU.  Please contact the Financial Aid Office at financialaid@csuniv.edu.

Yellow Ribbon
CSU is a Yellow Ribbon Program participant for certain programs. If you apply to use Chapter 33 VA Educational Benefits you may be eligible to participate in this program if your Certificate of Eligibility shows that you are at the 100 percent rate. You need to notify the Veterans Services Office at CSU that you plan to use Chapter 33 VA Educational Benefits no matter what percentage rate you may receive. CSU requires a FAFSA to be completed to be eligible for CSU’s Yellow Ribbon.

Veterans and Military Programs
Any student who plans to use VA Educational Benefits should contact the CSU Veterans Services Office. Active-duty personnel eligible to use tuition assistance should contact the Education Services Office at the military base where they are stationed and our Student Accounts office at 843-863-8058.  The CSU Veterans Services Office assists students with VA educational benefits including Montgomery GI Bill, Post 9/11 GI Bill, VA Vocational Rehabilitation and Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance Program. 

For more information, visit our campus Veterans Services Office located in the Hunter Center or call 843-863-7050.

Title 38 United States Code Section 3679(e) School Compliance Form

As part of the Veterans Benefits and Transition Act of 2018, section 3679(e) of Title 38, United States Code was amended. Effective August 1, 2019 the State Approving Agency, or the Secretary when acting in the role of the State Approving Agency, shall disapprove a course of education provided by an educational institution that has in effect a policy that is inconsistent with the areas below:

NOTE: A Covered Individual is any individual who is entitled to educational assistance under Chapter 31, Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment, or Chapter 33, Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits.

• Any covered individual attending Charleston Southern University is permitted to attend or participate in the course of education during the period beginning on the date on which the individual provides to the educational institution a certificate of eligibility for entitlement to educational assistance under Chapter 31 or 33  (a “certificate of eligibility” can also include a “Statement of Benefits” obtained from the Department of Veterans Affairs’ (VA) website - eBenefits, or a VAF 28-1905 form for Chapter 31 authorization purposes) and ending on the earlier of the following dates:

1. The date on which payment from VA is made to the institution.
2. 90 days after the date the institution certified tuition and fees following the receipt of the certificate of eligibility.

• Charleston Southern University will not impose any penalty, including the assessment of late fees, the denial of access to classes, libraries, or other institutional facilities, or the requirement that a covered individual borrow additional funds, on any covered individual because of the individual’s inability to meet his or her financial obligations to the institution due to the delayed disbursement funding from VA under chapter 31 or 33.
• A chapter 33 certificate of eligibility or chapter 31 authorization for entitlement to educational assistance for the covered individual must be received no later than the first day of a course of education.
• A fee may be imposed for the amount that is the difference between the amount of the student’s financial obligation and the amount of the VA education benefit disbursement.

• CHAPTER 30:

You may qualify for Chapter 30 benefits if you have:

• Served honorably for at least 2 years
• Entered active duty for the first time on or after June 30, 1985
• For students who have never used their benefits previously, you will need to complete VA Form 22-1990. You can apply online at https://www.vets.gov/education/apply/#modal.
• You will need to verify your enrollment each month on WAVE: https://www.gibill.va.gov/wave/index.do 

To find out more information about how to use your Chapter 30 benefits, please visit: https://benefits.va.gov/gibill/mgib_ad.asp

• CHAPTER 1606:

You may qualify for Chapter 1606 benefits if you have:

• Completed initial active duty training
• Are a Reservist or National Guard member who signed a six-year obligation on or after July 1, 1985.
• For students who have never used their benefits previously, you will need to complete VA Form 22-1990. You can apply online at https://www.vets.gov/education/apply/#modal.
• You will need to verify your enrollment each month on WAVE: https://www.gibill.va.gov/wave/index.do 

To find out more information about how to use your Chapter 1606 benefits please visit: https://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill/mgib_sr.asp

• CHAPTER 31:

You may qualify for Chapter 31 benefits if you have:

• Have not had a dishonorable discharge
• Have a 20 percent service-related disability rating by the Dept. of Veterans Affairs

To find out more information about how to use your Chapter 31 benefits, please visit:

https://www.benefits.va.gov/vocrehab/index.asp

To utilize your Chapter 31 benefits, veterans need to make an appointment with the VA Voc Rehab.  Their location is:

4600 Goer Drive

Suite 110

North Charleston, SC 29406

You can also call 843-740-9114 to speak with a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor. For veterans who utilize their Chapter 31 benefits, you must show your CSU ID and a copy of your class schedule before purchasing books and supplies in the CSU Bookstore. Please make sure that you register for classes early if you plan to use your benefit.

• CHAPTER 33:

The Post 9/11 Bill is a bill that gives educational and housing support to students that have at least 90 days of aggregate service on or after September 11, 2001.

For Payment Rates visit:  https://benefits.va.gov/GIBILL/comparison_chart.asp

To find out more information about how to use your Chapter 33 benefits, please visit:

https://www.vets.gov/education/gi-bill/post-9-11/

• CHAPTER 35:

You may qualify for Chapter 35 benefits if you are the spouse or dependent of a veteran:

• Who is totally/permanently disabled due to a service-related injury
• Who has died due to a service-related injury

To find out more information about how to use your Chapter 35 benefits, please visit: https://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill/survivor_dependent_assistance.asp

Privately Funded Programs

Outside Scholarships
Outside scholarships are given to students by outside organizations not necessarily affiliated with Charleston Southern University.

The James F. Byrnes Foundation
Applicants must be residents of South Carolina, have lost one or both parents by death, and demonstrate financial need. Applications deadline is February 15, and applications are available from:  http://www.byrnesscholars.org/foundation/scholarships.php

Gavalas Kolanko Foundation
The Gavalas Kolanko Foundation (GKF) is proud to award scholarships to students with physical impairments (sight, hearing, movement) at the College of Charleston and Charleston Southern University. The scholarship can be renewed for up to a total of four years. A full application is required the first application year. Each of the following years a current transcript is required by the application deadline. The scholarship is not automatically renewed each year, a transcript must be provided for the board to review.  Application forms are available online at:  Scholarships | Gavalas Kolanko Foundation (gkfoundation.org) 

The C. G. Fuller Foundation Scholarship
Residents of South Carolina who are unable to pay their own tuition and who demonstrate good scholastic records and outstanding leadership are qualified candidates. Application forms are available at C J Fuller Foundation Scholarship Information

The Strom Thurmond Foundation Scholarship
Students from South Carolina who have good academic records and financial need are eligible to apply. Applications are available from:

Strom Thurmond Foundation
P.O. Box 682
Aiken, South Carolina 29801
Recipients are chosen in July of each year.

The J. E. Sirrine Scholarship Program
The J.E. Sirrine Scholarship was established in 1973 and provides scholarship assistance to high school seniors of the fourteen Greenville County high schools in Greenville, South Carolina, who have met the academic and financial need criteria as set forth in the Sirrine guidelines. A high school graduate may also apply for the Sirrine Scholarship up to three years after the date of graduation. The value of the scholarship ranges from $200 to $2,000, depending on the financial need, and may be used for an undergraduate degree program at any accredited four-year college, two-year college, technical or vocational school anywhere in the United States. The scholarships are renewable. Checks in the amount of the scholarship award are payable directly to the designated college and sent to the financial aid office of that institution. To apply online, go to: https://sirrine.greenville.k12.sc.us/login.aspx?returnurl=%2f. The application and a copy of the Student Aid Report must be postmarked no later than April 15th of each year and sent to:

The J.E. Sirrine Scholarship Program
Greenville County Schools
PO Box 2848
Greenville, SC 29602

Exchange Club Scholarship

The Exchange Club of Charleston offers a community-based scholarship every year to students who have at least a 3.0 GPA, demonstrate need, live in the tri-county area, have completed their freshman year of college and have a recent history of involvement in community service. The scholarship is awarded every November. For details please contact the Financial Aid Office at 843-863-7050 or by email at financialaid@csuniv.edu.

The Ty Cobb Scholarship Program
Scholarship aid for needy and deserving youth of Georgia who have completed at least one year in an accredited institution of higher learning. For information, write:

Ty Cobb Educational Foundation
P.O. Box 725
Forest Park, GA 30051
http://www.tycobbfoundation.com/

The Christian Community Credit Union “Scholarships for Success” Program

The Christian Community Credit Union is offering multiple scholarships for the  2018-2019 academic school year. Members of the Christian Community Credit Union with an active checking account can receive up to $4,000/academic year as a full-time undergraduate student or up to $2,000/year as a full-time graduate student. https://www.mycccu.com/scholarship (Closed 3/31/2018; opens 2/1/2019)

South Carolina Federal Credit Union Scholarship

South Carolina Federal Credit Union is hosting its fourth annual competition awarding three (3) scholarships totaling $7,500. For more information, please email scholarship@scfederal.org or go to https://scfederal.org/scholarship.

Watson-Brown Foundation Scholarship
Students must be from South Carolina or Georgia and demonstrate financial need and academic merit. More information is available at www.watson-brown.org.

Employer Scholarship Program
Many companies have scholarship programs for their employees and/or their dependents. Students and parents should check with the personnel office of their company to see if such benefits are available.

Private Loans
Private loans are available to degree-seeking students who need additional funds to meet the Cost of Attendance. They are only awarded after the student has received a Stafford loan. Students applying for an alternative loan may borrow up to the total budget for the current academic year. These loans are in the student’s name (possible co-signer needed) and approved based on the borrower’s credit and work history. The interest rates on these loans are variable, and most go into repayment six months after the separation date. 

My Payment Plan
My Payment Plan offers choices for financing your education including monthly payments plans and e-payment options.  Please visit your MyCSU account (under the student tab) for more information.

Additional Scholarship Opportunities

www.aie.org
www.collegeboard.com
www.nasfa.org
www.studentaid.ed.gov
www.collegeanswer.com

Military Education Scholarships

Applicants must be one of the following:

• Current and prospective ROTC program students
• Active-duty Military personnel with plans to attend college
• Honorably Discharged Veterans of the U.S. Military
• Sons and daughters of Veterans or active duty Military

Application forms are available online at Scholarships | CSU (charlestonsouthern.edu)

Academic Scholarships 
Merit-based scholarships are awarded by Charleston Southern University to degree-seeking students who are enrolled full-time. The scholarship amount is determined by the student’s GPA and SAT/ACT score at the time of high school graduation. The scholarship amount may change based on financial need and residency status. This award can be renewed each year by maintaining satisfactory academic progress.