SC college students can now get more money through need-based grants to help pay tuition
South Carolina college students will be able to receive 40% more financial aid through need-based grants starting this academic year, the S.C. Commission on Higher Education announced this week.
The maximum award amount for full-time students will be $3,500, instead of the original $2,500 in order to better meet low-income students’ financial needs. Part-time students can receive up to $1,750 instead of $1,250.
$10 million was added to the state’s 2023 budget to allow for larger grants, according to a news release from the education commission.
“We are pleased to announce these increases to help make college more affordable, yet we also realize there is still a lot of unmet financial need. We will continue to advocate for affordability in our system of higher education,” Rusty Monhollon, Commission on Higher Education president and executive director, said in a press release.
Those eligible must be enrolled as degree-seeking students at a college or university. Students must also complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to qualify.
This new change will also allow students to use grants to be used for any term, fall, spring or summer. Students can receive them for up to eight full-time terms.
Students at public institutions will have their need determined by the school’s financial aid office. Those attending independent institutions will be assessed by the S.C. Higher Education Tuition Grants Commission.
