Partially funded

Top Scholar Awards for Nonresident Freshmen (Stamps, McNair and Horseshoe Scholars)

University of South Carolina, United States

Scholarship overview

The Stamps, McNair and Horseshoe Scholars Awards are the most prestigious awards the University of South Carolina offers to nonresident freshmen. Forty-five students with strong academic records and leadership qualities receive a Top Scholar award each year: five are named Stamps Scholars, 20 McNair Scholars and up to 20 Horseshoe Scholars.

Candidates are invited to a mandatory interview and an in-person Top Scholar Weekend.

Award Information

  • First-time freshman applicant who lives outside South Carolina
  • Strong academic record and leadership qualities
  • Last year's nonresident Top Scholars averaged an SAT score of 1550 (ACT 35) and a high school GPA of 4.8, and were in the top 1% of their high school class; these are prior-year averages, not minimum requirements
  • General university application and South Carolina Honors College application both submitted
  • Stamps Scholars Award: approximately $25,810 per year plus tuition reduction to the in-state rate; four-year value approximately $219,000 plus a $15,000 enrichment fund
  • McNair Scholars Award: $24,000 per year plus tuition reduction to the in-state rate; four-year value more than $199,000 plus a $14,000 enrichment fund
  • Horseshoe Scholars Award: $11,000 per year plus tuition reduction to the in-state rate; four-year value more than $147,000
  • South Carolina Honors College application: November 15
  • General university application: December 1 (Regular Decision), with credentials due January 15
  • Honors College applicants receive a decision by mid-February
  1. Submit the general university application to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions (USC Application or Common App).
  2. Submit the South Carolina Honors College application by November 15.
  3. If selected as a candidate, take part in the interview and the Top Scholar Weekend.

Official links

Documents you will need

  • General university application, including essay and activities section
  • South Carolina Honors College application
  • High school transcript

How selection works

Selection rests on academic record and leadership qualities, followed by a mandatory interview and attendance at the in-person Top Scholar Weekend.

Other scholarships

View all scholarships →

Ready to start your study abroad journey?

Book a free consultation with our expert counsellors and take the first step towards your dream university.

Copyrights © 2026 StudyMapped. All rights reserved.