Parent & Family Resources
At the College of Charleston, families are more than supporters — you’re our partners in student success. You play an essential role in your students’ educational experience, well-being, and growth. Whether your student is beginning their college search, starting their first semester, exploring career pathways, or preparing for graduation, the College of Charleston is here to support you.
Throughout their journey, your student will look to you for guidance, reassurance, and direction. One of the best ways to support them is to become familiar with the many resources and opportunities available to you and your student. This website serves as your central hub for information, offering answers and insights into the topics families ask about most.
If you don’t find what you’re looking for, our team is here to help you navigate campus services and connect with the right offices. If you have questions, reach out to us at parents@charleston.edu. We’re with you and your student, every step of the way.
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The College Today is your online source for the latest College of Charleston news.
Contact Us
If you have questions, call the Office of New Student Programs at 843.953.2017 (open Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. EST) or email parents@charleston.edu. We are here to help!
Find Your Family Type
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Prospective Families
For families with students exploring the College of Charleston and considering applying for undergraduate admission.AdmissionAcademicsCareer PlanningCommunication & InformationFinancial
- Cost of Attendance (Net Price Calculator)
- Financial Assistance & Veterans Affairs: Submit the FAFSA (CofC School Code 003428)
- Scholarship Award System
- Scholarships
Safety -
New Student Families
For families with undergraduate students who have been admitted and are preparing to start their first semester.Admission
- Admission: Next Steps for Admitted Students
- Accept the Financial Aid Offer
- Access MyPortal
- Apply for Campus Housing (Opens Feb. 1, deadline for new students May 1)
- Lawful Presence Verification
- New Student Checklist
- Register for New Student & Family Orientation (Required for Students, Optional for Families)
- Student Health Services (Submit Immunization & Vaccine Documents)
AcademicsCampus Life- Activities Calendar
- Campus Housing
- College of Charleston YouTube Channel
- Cougar Connect (Student Activities Calendar)
- Fraternity & Sorority Life
- Homecoming/Family Weekend
- Honor Board
- Move-In
- Orientation Housing (Optional for New Students: Available for June & July Orientations)
- Residence Halls
- Residence Life
- Student Life
- Weeks of Welcome Events
Communication & Campus Information- Family Educational Rights & Privacy Act (FERPA): Consent to release Education Records
- Family Orientation
- Family Webinar Series Schedule for New Families (Fall 2026) - Coming Soon!
- Maps & Directions
- Proxy Access (Students Must be Registered for Classes)
- Stay Informed
FinancialFirst Year ProgramsSafety & WellnessStudent Services
- Campus Services HQ
- Cougar Card (Get a Student ID Card)
- Cougar Complete/Bookstore (Access to Books & Course Materials)
- Mail Services & Shipping
- Meal Plans & Dining Locations
- Parking & Transportation
Student Support
- Disability Services (Apply for Accommodations)
- Food & Housing Resources
- Technology Support
Videos & YouTube Channels
- CofC Orientation Excitement
- CofC First Week
- College of Charleston YouTube Channel
- End of Semester Recap
- New Student Programs YouTube channel (Orientation Videos & Webinar Recordings)
- Residence Hall Tours
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Currently Enrolled Families
For families with undergraduate students who are actively enrolled and continuing their studies.AcademicsAcademic Support
- Academic Advising
- Center for Student Learning (Academic Coaching/Supplemental Instruction/Study Skills/ Tutoring Services)
Campus Life- Athletics
- Campus Recreation (Facilities/Fitness/Intramurals/Sport Clubs)
- Center for Sustainable Development (Bikeshare/Cougar Free Store/Internships)
- College of Charleston Events Calendar
- Fraternity & Sorority Life
- Parking
- Student Handbook
- Student Life (Club & Organizations)
Career Planning- Career Center
- Coursera Career Academy
- Handshake (Career Center Job Posting System)
- Internships
- Student Employment
Communication
FinancialSafety & Wellness- Cougar Shuttle
- Counseling Center
- Safety Services
- Student Care Outreach (Refer a Student of Concern)
- Student Health
- Student Wellness
Student Support -
Graduating Families
For families with undergraduate students finishing their degree and preparing for commencement, careers, or graduate school.
Alumni & Career ServicesCommencementGraduate School & Transcripts