Overview
Charleston Southern University is a accessible private four-year institution in Charleston, South Carolina. The school accepts 86.8% of applicants and enrolls 2,716 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 86.8%
- Average SAT
- 1,055
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 940–1,170
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 21
- Total Enrollment
- 2,716
Your Chances by SAT Score
Your score is above the 75th percentile. You are a competitive applicant.
Your score falls within the middle 50% of admitted students.
Your score is below the 25th percentile. Other parts of your application will need to stand out.
Admission Guide
Charleston Southern University accepts applications through their online portal with a rolling admissions process that extends into the summer, giving you flexibility in timing your application. You'll need to submit your high school transcripts, SAT or ACT scores, and a personal essay along with your application.
The nursing program requires a separate application process and maintains higher admission standards than the university overall. Submit your nursing application early since spots fill quickly and clinical placements are limited. You'll need prerequisite courses in biology, chemistry, and math completed with strong grades.
Housing fills up fast at this smaller campus, so apply for residence halls immediately after admission. First-year students must live on campus unless they're married, over 21, or living with family locally. The university assigns roommates unless you request someone specific.
New student orientation happens during the summer before your first semester. You'll register for classes, meet with advisors, and complete placement testing during this mandatory program. The university operates on a semester system with classes starting in late August.
Charleston Southern requires chapel attendance twice weekly as part of its Christian mission. This affects your schedule planning since chapel times are built into the academic calendar. The campus sits about 20 minutes from downtown Charleston, so you'll want a car for off-campus activities and internships in the city.
Financial aid deadlines come earlier than admission deadlines. Complete your FAFSA by March 1 to maximize aid opportunities, even though you can still apply to the university after that date. The financial aid office processes applications faster when submitted before the priority deadline.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $21,955/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $31,030
- Students Receiving Aid
- 35%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 48.6%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $45,898/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 61.9%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the application deadlines for Charleston Southern University?
Charleston Southern University operates on a rolling admissions basis, meaning applications are reviewed as they are received. Students are encouraged to apply early for the best chance at housing and financial aid.
Does Charleston Southern University require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
Charleston Southern University requires either SAT or ACT scores as part of the admissions process. The school does not offer test-optional admissions.
What GPA do you need to get into Charleston Southern University?
Charleston Southern University does not publish a minimum GPA requirement. The admissions process considers multiple factors including grades, test scores, and extracurricular activities.
How many transfer credits does Charleston Southern University accept?
Charleston Southern University accepts transfer credits from regionally accredited institutions. Students must earn at least 30 credit hours at Charleston Southern to graduate with a degree from the university.