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78.6%Acceptance
$11,640Tuition
9,909Students
51%Grad Rate (6-yr)
$47,258Earnings
#16 in South CarolinaPublic4-yearSAT/ACT Test OptionalNCAA Division IStudy AbroadData: 2023-24

Overview

Coastal Carolina University is a less selective public four-year institution in Conway, South Carolina. The school accepts 78.6% of applicants and enrolls 9,909 students.

Admission Statistics

Acceptance Rate
78.6%
Average SAT
1,105
SAT Range (25th–75th)
1,020–1,190
ACT Composite (avg)
23
Total Enrollment
9,909

Your Chances by SAT Score

Strong Candidate
SAT above 1,190

Your score is above the 75th percentile. You are a competitive applicant.

Competitive
SAT 1,020–1,190

Your score falls within the middle 50% of admitted students.

Reach School
SAT below 1,020

Your score is below the 25th percentile. Other parts of your application will need to stand out.

Admission Guide

Apply through the Common Application or directly through Coastal Carolina's online portal by December 15 for priority consideration, though the university accepts applications on a rolling basis through August. You'll need your high school transcript, SAT or ACT scores, and a personal essay. The application fee is $45.

Nursing stands out as the most competitive program on campus, requiring higher test scores and grades than general admission. The College of Science also maintains stricter standards for pre-health tracks. Business programs like accounting and marketing remain accessible but fill up quickly due to popularity.

Submit your housing application immediately after acceptance to secure your preferred residence hall. First-year students must live on campus unless they're local residents or over 21. The Chanticleer Village apartments are the newest housing option but fill up first.

Register for orientation as early as possible since sessions fill by major. You'll select classes during orientation, and popular courses close quickly. If you're considering changing majors, meet with academic advising before your first semester begins.

The campus sits 10 miles from Myrtle Beach, which creates a strong beach culture but also means higher living costs in the surrounding area. Most students need cars since public transportation is limited. Parking passes cost extra and campus lots fill up during peak hours.

Greek life dominates social activities, with about 15% of students joining fraternities or sororities. Football games draw large crowds and tailgating is popular. The university has grown rapidly in recent years, so some facilities and services can feel stretched thin during busy periods.

What It Costs If You Get In

Average Net Price
$13,742/yr
Tuition (in-state)
$11,640
Tuition (out-of-state)
$29,628
Students Receiving Aid
27%

View full cost breakdown →

After You Graduate

Graduation Rate (6-year)
50.8%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$47,258/yr
Freshman Retention Rate
75.7%

View full outcomes data →

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Coastal Carolina University require SAT or ACT scores for admission?

Coastal Carolina University is test-optional, meaning SAT or ACT scores are not required for admission. Students can choose whether to submit test scores as part of their application.

What is the application deadline for Coastal Carolina University?

Coastal Carolina University has rolling admissions with a priority deadline of August 1 for fall semester. Applications submitted after this date are reviewed on a space-available basis.

Does Coastal Carolina University offer early decision or early action?

Coastal Carolina University does not offer early decision or early action programs. All students apply through the regular admission process with rolling admissions.

How many transfer credits does Coastal Carolina University accept?

Coastal Carolina University accepts up to 64 credit hours from community colleges and up to 90 credit hours total from four-year institutions. Transfer students must complete at least 30 credit hours at CCU to earn a degree.