A new way to tour USC
A typical USC tour can feel impersonal, leaving you with more questions than answers. You’re just a face in the crowd following a scripted tour led by a guide the school assigns you.
SchoolScoops offers private University of South Carolina tours tailored to your interests. Choose your own USC student tour guide and enjoy a personalized campus visit where you'll get candid answers to your questions.
SchoolScoops is the more personal way to tour the University of South Carolina
Private and personalized USC tours
On a traditional South Carolina campus tour you’re just a number in a big group. With SchoolScoops, you can book a private University of South Carolina tour led by a real USC student, giving you a personalized campus visit and the chance to ask all the questions that are important to you.
Choose your own tour guide
Unlike a traditional University of South Carolina campus tour, SchoolScoops lets you choose your own tour guide. Whether you want to meet an engineering major, a student-athlete or a fellow transfer student, you'll get authentic insights and advice from someone who truly gets you.
No scripts, just scoops
Traditional South Carolina campus tours are essentially a sales pitch—the tour guide works for the school and their job is to show you the highlights. SchoolScoops guides don’t work for their school, so there’s no sales pitch—just honest, unfiltered advice about the USC experience.
Find out if USC is the school for you
Choosing where to go to college is a major decision and a huge investment. A private USC tour helps you decide if South Carolina is the right fit for your academic goals, career ambitions and college experience.
Can't make it to campus?
Book a 1-on-1 video chat with a USC student for personalized insights. Learn about academics, campus culture, and Columbia life without leaving home.
Book a video chat
Real feedback on student-led campus tours
Get to know the University of South Carolina
The University of South Carolina (USC) is the state’s flagship public research university in Columbia. Known for strengths in business, engineering, public health, and the liberal arts, USC combines academic rigor with vibrant school spirit.
Overview
Founded in 1801, USC offers more than 300 academic programs across undergraduate, graduate, and professional levels. A private University of South Carolina campus tour highlights how academics, research, and Gamecock traditions create a distinctive college experience.
Size
Enrollment is about 35,600 students, including ~28,500 undergraduates and ~7,100 graduate students. On a private USC campus tour, you’ll see how a large flagship university fosters close-knit Gamecock pride.
Acceptance rate
The acceptance rate is around 64%. Middle 50% of admitted students score 1180–1370 SAT or 25–31 ACT. A University of South Carolina campus tours visit gives applicants real admissions insights from current students.
Cost
For 2024–2025, undergraduate tuition is about $12,688 for in-state students and $35,972 for out-of-state students. Nearly 93% of undergraduates receive financial aid, and guides often share tips on scholarships and the cost of living in Columbia.
Ranking
According to U.S. News & World Report, USC ranks #121 among National Universities, with top recognition in business, engineering, and public health programs.
Academics
With over 300 majors and programs and a 17:1 student-to-faculty ratio, USC emphasizes accessible professors and diverse opportunities. Popular fields include nursing, psychology, finance, computer science, and public health.
Traditions
Signature USC traditions include the Gamecock Walk before football games, the Tiger Burn before Clemson rivalry week, Cocky’s Call during Welcome Week, and the Ring Ceremony at the historic Horseshoe. Experiencing these on a USC tour brings the Gamecock spirit to life.
Campus landmarks
Key stops on a University of South Carolina campus tour include the Horseshoe, McKissick Museum, Thomas Cooper Library, Williams-Brice Stadium, and the Longstreet Theatre, blending history with modern campus energy.
Student body
About 65% of students are from South Carolina, while strong out-of-state cohorts come from North Carolina, Georgia, Virginia, Maryland, and New Jersey. USC also welcomes students from more than 90 countries, adding global diversity to the Gamecock community.
Become a SchoolScoops guide
In college? Earn $40/hour hosting 1-on-1 University of South Carolina campus tours and video chats with prospective students. Share your Gamecock story and help future students find their path.
Become a guideYour University of South Carolina questions, answered
Where is the University of South Carolina located?
The University of South Carolina is in Columbia, SC, the state capital.
How many students are at the University of South Carolina?
USC enrolls about 35,600 students, including 28,500 undergraduates and 7,100 graduate students.
When was the University of South Carolina founded?
The University of South Carolina was founded in 1801, making it one of the oldest universities in the South.
What is the acceptance rate for USC?
USC admits around 64% of applicants, making it moderately selective.
How much is tuition at the University of South Carolina?
In-state tuition is about $12,688 per year, while out-of-state tuition is about $35,972.
What is the University of South Carolina known for?
USC is known for its top programs in business, nursing, public health, psychology, and engineering.
Is the University of South Carolina a Party School?
Yes, USC is often ranked among the top party schools in the U.S. Students on a USC campus tour will see a lively social scene with Greek life, football tailgates, and nightlife in Five Points, alongside strong academics.
Is USC a good school?
Yes, USC is a highly respected public university with strong academics, research opportunities, and a vibrant student community.
How far is the University of South Carolina from the beach?
USC is about 153 miles from Myrtle Beach (~3 hours by car).
Does the University of South Carolina offer private campus tours?
Yes - through SchoolScoops, you can book private University of South Carolina tours with guides you choose.
How can I tour USC?
USC offers guided tours, self-guided tours, and virtual tours. You can book a personalized USC tour with SchoolScoops.
Interested in other schools?
SchoolScoops also offers tours and video chats at many other schools
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