From the Director's Chair

I have received a few questions about scholarships that I'd like to address:

Q) How do I know if I am getting a scholarship?

A) We mailed out letters extending scholarship offers last week.  If you are being offered a scholarship, you should have received your letter by now.

Q) What were the requirements to get a scholarship this year?

A) They vary by type and level of award, but generally speaking a 1250 SAT (Math + Critical Reading) and a B+ average were the minimum requirements to be considered for most scholarships. 

Q)  I received a Woodrow Scholarship and it mentioned a tuition reduction.  What does that mean?

A)  A Woodrow Scholarship is for out-of-state students and is considered a "departmental scholarship", which means it qualifies for a tuition reduction that is approximately half the difference between in-state tuition and the non-resident tution rate.  In addition to this tuition reduction, recipients also receive $500/year applied to their outstanding bill.  Therefore, beginning with Fall 2008, the annual net value of a Woodrow Scholarship is expected to be $500(award) + $10,317(reduction) = $10,817/year.  Over four years, the net value of the Woodrow will be more than $43,268.

Q) Same question, but I received a McKissick (or Cooper)  Scholarship. 

A) Almost the same answer, except the Cooper and the McKissick scholarships are considered "Institutional" or "general university" scholarships.  In addition to the dollar amount of the awards, recipients also qualify for in-state tuition, as if they were South Carolina residents.  The benefit of the Cooper is expected to $4000(award) + $14,241(reduction) = $18,241 per year, and more than $72,964 over four years.  The benefit of a McKissick is expected to be $2000(award) + 14,241(reduction) = $16,241, and more than $64,964 over four years.   These rates are based on average full-time tuition projections for  next year and could vary slightly from student-to-student and year-to-year, but you get the idea.  Actual tuition for next year will not be set until the June Board of Trustees Meeting.

If you ever have any questions about your scholarship award, please call the admissions office at (803) 777-7700 and ask to speak with an admissions counselor.