Is University of South Carolina-Columbia Worth It?
Columbia, SC · Midsize city · 29,820 students · Data: College Scorecard, June 2026 release
University of South Carolina-Columbia is a R1 Research University located in midsize city in Columbia, SC. It enrolls approximately 29,820 students. The acceptance rate is 60%, making it moderately selective. 79% of students finish within 6 years (150% of normal time) — solid. With $62,177 median earnings and $21,500 median debt, median debt equals about 4 months of gross pay (estimate) — a solid ROI. 67% of borrowers are making progress on their loans 3 years after leaving school (College Scorecard).
Mixed student body (slight conservative tilt)
1.24 conservative students for every 1 liberal student (FIRE survey). Free speech rank 14 of 261, grade C.
Full campus politics breakdown →Source: FIRE 2027 College Free Speech Rankings (student survey fielded 2026 by College Pulse)
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