How to Qualify for the SC LIFE Scholarship
South Carolina students are lucky to have access to one of the most generous state scholarships in the country: the LIFE Scholarship (Legislative Incentive for Future Excellence). Whether you’re planning to attend a public university, private college, or technical school in the state, the LIFE Scholarship could save you thousands of dollars.
Here’s what you need to know about qualifying in 2025.
💰 How Much Is the LIFE Scholarship Worth?
Four-Year Public or Private Colleges: Up to $5,000 per year, including a $300 book allowance.
Two-Year Technical or Community Colleges: Up to $2,500 per year, including the $300 book allowance.
STEM Bonus: Students majoring in STEM fields at a four-year institution can earn an additional $2,500 per year starting sophomore year, bringing the total to $7,500 annually.
✅ Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the LIFE Scholarship right out of high school, you must meet two out of these three requirements:
GPA: Earn at least a 3.0 GPA (on the SC Uniform Grading Scale).
Class Rank: Graduate in the top 30% of your class.
Test Scores: Earn at least 1100 on the SAT or a 22 on the ACT.
For students at two-year colleges, only the GPA requirement applies.
📅 Keeping the LIFE Scholarship in College
Earning the scholarship is just the start—you must maintain eligibility each year. That means:
Completing 30 credit hours per academic year.
Maintaining at least a 3.0 GPA in college.
Failing to meet these benchmarks can result in losing the scholarship for future years.
🎓 Where Can You Use the LIFE Scholarship?
The LIFE Scholarship can be applied to nearly all public universities, private colleges, and two-year technical schools in South Carolina, including:
Clemson University
University of South Carolina (all campuses)
College of Charleston
Coastal Carolina
Winthrop University
All SC Technical Colleges
💡 Tips to Qualify and Keep It
Focus on GPA early: Don’t wait until junior year to get serious about grades.
Know your class rank: Stay aware of where you stand and seek support if slipping.
Prep for SAT/ACT strategically: Even if you already meet GPA or rank, strong test scores can help with other scholarships.
Stay consistent in college: Plan credit hours carefully and use tutoring or academic support if needed.
🧭 Final Thoughts from College Refocus
The SC LIFE Scholarship is a powerful opportunity for South Carolina students—worth up to $20,000 or more over four years. With smart planning in high school and steady effort in college, you can keep this funding and drastically reduce your tuition costs.
🎯 Call to Action
Want to make sure you qualify for the LIFE Scholarship and maximize your financial aid?
📅 Book a Scholarship Strategy Session with College Refocus and we’ll guide you step by step through requirements, deadlines, and planning.