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College of Charleston

Charleston, SC · Public · 10,558 students

You'll pass through the arch way at Porter's Lodge during convocation and then again when you graduate.

Acceptance rate

60.0%

SAT (mid 50%)

1140–1310

Avg net price

$18,960

after aid

Testing

Optional

2027 cycle

Sources: the U.S. Department of Education (2024), and the College of Charleston admissions site.

Your chances

How hard is it to get in?

College of Charleston admitted 60.0% of applicants in its most recent reported class. That means most students who apply get in. Your job is to meet the requirements and apply on time.

Here’s where admitted students landed on tests. The middle 50% score 1140–1310 on the SAT and 25–30 on the ACT. Scores at or above that band keep you in contention. They don’t decide it.

The real question isn’t your odds. It’s your move. That’s where Spike comes in. It reads your profile against what College of Charleston actually rewards, then tells you what to do next.

Check your own numbers against this class →

What they value

Carve Out Something Different Here

No matter your area of interest, we have the program for you.

The College offers approximately 150 undergraduate majors and minors, 22 master's degree programs, nine graduate-level certificate programs, and robust interdisciplinary programs.

  • Majors and Minorsapproximately 150 options
  • Master's Degrees22 programs
  • Certificate Programs9 programs

Verified from charleston.edu and charleston.edu and charleston.edu and charleston.edu and charleston.edu and charleston.edu and charleston.edu and charleston.edu and charleston.edu.

Applying

Here’s what to send, and when.

  • TestingOptional (2027 cycle)

Verified from https://www.charleston.edu.

The essays

Here are the supplemental essay prompts.

The current prompts, straight from the application. They change year to year. Most guides you’ll find are a cycle behind.

  • Consider the following individual identity descriptors: creator, doer, explorer, change agent, seeker. Choose one of these descriptors that best encapsulates your core identity. Provide 2-3 concrete examples of how the descriptor you chose reflects your identity. This is your opportunity to share a meaningful experience, a particular interest, or your involvement in a unique community. How might this core identity translate into action as a scholar-citizen at the College of Charleston? In what ways do you hope to develop your core identity during college?

    Up to 500 words

Every prompt, with how to approach each →

Verified from https://www.charleston.edu.

Cost and aid

What will you actually pay?

The sticker price is about $32,362. That isn’t what most families pay. After need-based aid, the average net price is $18,960.

Scholarships are financial aid awards that can help you pay for college and do not have to be repaid, often renewable with minimum requirements.

Ten years after enrolling, graduates earn a median of $56,416.

Verified from https://www.charleston.edu and the U.S. Department of Education.

Academics

These are the most popular majors.

  • Business Administration, Management and Operations8% of degrees
  • Psychology, General8% of degrees
  • Communication and Media Studies7% of degrees
  • Biology, General6% of degrees
  • Public Health6% of degrees
  • Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods5% of degrees

Campus life

Here’s the feel of the place.

“There's never a dull moment on our campus, plus downtown Charleston is just minutes from some of the best beaches in the Southeast and boasts year-round temperate weather.”

Charleston is a perfect-sized city, big enough for a vibrant cultural life yet small enough to feel like home, with downtown just minutes from some of the best beaches in the Southeast.

Historic CityUrbanCoastalTight-knit community

Quick answers

What do people ask about College of Charleston?

Is College of Charleston test-optional?
For the 2027 application cycle, standardized testing at College of Charleston is optional.
How hard is it to get into College of Charleston?
Very hard. College of Charleston admits 60.0% of applicants. The middle 50% of admitted students score 1140 to 1310 on the SAT. Treat it as a reach for every applicant.
How much does College of Charleston cost?
The list price is about $32,362. After aid, families pay $18,960 on average.
Is College of Charleston worth it?
Graduates earn a median of $56,416 ten years after enrolling. 65% of students graduate within six years. Value depends on your aid offer and your goals. That’s what Spike helps you weigh.

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Ask Spike anything about College of Charleston.

Spike answers from College of Charleston’s own site, then helps you figure out your move.