How do I apply?

Programs start nearly every eight weeks—now is a great time to start your application.

Have questions about your options? Explore online and evening undergraduate degrees

1. Start Your Application 

Use our application or the common application to get started. You can always take a break and come back to finish or check your status.

Apply Application Status

2. Submit Your Personal Statement

You must submit a personal statement unless you have transferable college credit with a minimum 2.0 GPA.

Personal Statement Directions

You must submit a personal statement unless you meet one of the following two categories:

  • You have transferable college credit with a minimum GPA of 2.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale, or
  • You have an approved training academy certification (degree-specific).

If you opt to submit a personal statement, it should be a minimum of 500 words and address all of the following:

  • Explain why you should be accepted for admissions.
  • Explain why the program is important to you.
  • Explain why would Columbia College is a good fit for your educational goals.

3. Request Your Transcript

This includes official transcripts from all colleges previously attended as well as your high school transcript (if you have not earned an associate’s or bachelor’s degree). This includes dual enrollment. Official transcripts should be sent directly from each school.

You can transfer a total of 90 credit hours from any regionally accredited college or university. 

Transferring Credits 

Only classes in which you have received a 2.0 or higher will be accepted and we reserve the right to determine which courses meet the requirements and standards of the College. 

Once your admission file is complete, it will be sent to the registrar for an official transfer evaluation that determines the number of transfer hours to which you are entitled. Learn more about how to transfer to Columbia College

4. Optional Steps 

Letters of Recommendation

Ask your high school guidance counselor to fill out our guidance counselor form and submit it. We also ask that you submit a recommendation from a teacher who taught you English, math, history, science, or a foreign language in 11th or 12th grade. 

SAT & ACT Scores

Your SAT or ACT score is required if you are applying for a scholarship, but it is not required to apply to Columbia College. Use our school code 5117 to share your SAT scores, and use school code 3850 to share your ACT scores. 

Have questions? Reach us at 800.277.1301admissions@columbiasc.edu, or contact a member of our admissions team directly. 

Send Transcripts & Recommendations: 
Office of Undergraduate Admissions
Columbia College
1301 Columbia College
Columbia, SC 29203

Admission Decision

In most cases, we evaluate an application and respond with an admission decision within four weeks of receiving all the required documents. Admitted students are notified by mail and will receive follow-up information about the next steps, like financial aid, housing, orientation, and registration.

Have questions?

We’re here to help. Reach out to our admissions team to discuss the online and evening programs, transferring credit, and more.