Founded in 1801, the University of South Carolina (USC) is located in the heart of South Carolina - the city of Columbia which is a modern city where stately buildings buzzing with new businesses intertwine with centuries-old sites. Fed by university and capital city communities, this city surrounded by natural beauty is an ideal place to study. Here you will find exciting culture, internship opportunities, international food, and more.

• Home to 133,000 people, for small-town friendliness yet big-city fun
• Weather includes mild winters and very hot summers
• #3 Best College Town according to Livability.com
• South Carolina is ranked #5 in the U.S. for globalization
• Top 5 industries: Healthcare, insurance, eco-friendly energy, transportation and research
• Charlotte Douglas International Airport has nonstop flights to 15 international destinations

USC offers world-class academics in a friendly, welcoming environment that sets you up for success and makes your transition as easy and productive as possible through the International Accelerator Program. 

Graduates of USC are equipped to change the world - pioneers and cutting-edge thinkers ready to tackle our most challenging problems. USC alumni can be found across the globe in India, China, Brazil, Malaysia, Russia, the U.K. and many other countries. They work in engineering, project management, research, consulting and business development in some of the world’s most prestigious organizations. 

Why the University of South Carolina

As one of only 32 public universities to earn the Carnegie Foundation’s top-tier designations in research activity and community engagement, USC boasts for its wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in different areas.

• 47 nationally ranked degree programs
• 19:1 student to faculty ratio
• #1 ranked undergraduate international business program
• Ranked the #49 Top Public University
• Focus on innovation, with USC in the top 1% of patent-producing universities in the world
• Ranked #92 in the world for economics and business

There are lots of benefits for you while studying at USC.

Flexibility: Studying at USC allows you to explore a wide range of majors to reach your personal and professional goals. One great benefit of studying in the U.S. is that you can change your major and even select a minor. Our dedicated team will help find the right path for you - through workshops, one-to-one consultations and other tools during your first year and beyond.

Dedicated Support: Make your transition to the U.S. easy with dedicated advisors, tutoring and support services. Our services start before you arrive, with visa interview preparation, packing lists and detailed checklists, and continue throughout your freshman year, with help moving into your dorm, making American friends, and, of course, supporting your academic journey.

Professional Development: Fast track your future with the Career Accelerator. Designed exclusively for students who have come through the International Direct process, you will develop your professional skills and gain a strong understanding of how your knowledge and interests give you an advantage when it comes to launching your career. These services are available to you into your junior year.