First-Year Admission


Come here to make contributions that matter.

Our open and collaborative community creates an intimate setting where you'll have the opportunity to think, create and explore alongside leading faculty in their respective fields. Here, you will be given the freedom to explore your passions and are supported throughout the journey to discovering your best path. Let's take this journey together.

Understanding the Application Process


Applying for first-year admission is simple once you understand the process. It's helpful to familiarize yourself with the necessary steps and gather required documents before you initiate the application process.

  1. Choose the application deadline that makes sense for you. Find out what our admissions committee is looking for.
  2. Choose your application method (College of Charleston Application or Common App).
  3. Review your application checklist. Once you submit your application, you'll be able to view your application checklist and track your application file in your College of Charleston Admissions Portal. If you chose the Common App, we'll send you an email after you hit submit, so you can access your College of Charleston Admissions Portal.
  4. Submit your application materials to complete your application file.

** The College of Charleston essay options are the same as the Common Application essay prompts. We also allow you to provide an essay using a topic of your choice

**Students applying for first-year admission can choose to have their application evaluated without SAT or ACT scores.

Cougar Advantage Program (Top 10%)

If you're a South Carolina student in a public or charter high school and you are in the top 10% of your class, you will be automatically admitted based on your class ranking at the time of application. You are also eligible for a minimum of $4,000 in merit scholarships.

Admission Requirements


In a university where originality, innovation and experiential learning matter, we look at more than just test scores in determining admissions. Take a look at what the average first-year student who enrolls at the College looks like to help inform your decision. 

Decision Information


Waiting to receive your admission decision can be stressful. To eliminate any confusion, and keep students and families informed, we've compiled an overview of possible decision outcomes.

Financial Aid & Additional Info


 

FAFSA

Students interested in federal loans and federal/state grants must complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid).

International Application

The College of Charleston believes that diverse backgrounds, perspectives and experiences are integral parts of a liberal arts education.