The Palmetto Fellows Scholarship is one of South Carolina’s most prestigious merit-based financial aid programs created to help high-achieving students pursue higher education in the state. Administered by the South Carolina Commission on Higher Education, this scholarship rewards academic excellence, leadership, and strong performance in high school.
With competitive award amounts and renewable yearly benefits, the Palmetto Fellows Scholarship has become a top choice for students seeking financial support for college.

In this detailed guide, we break down everything you need to know about the Palmetto Fellows Scholarship, including eligibility requirements, award values, the application process, deadlines, and tips to improve your chances of being selected.

What Is the Palmetto Fellows Scholarship?

The Palmetto Fellows Scholarship is a merit-based program designed to encourage the state’s best students to attend South Carolina colleges and universities. Unlike need-based scholarships, this award is primarily focused on academic excellence, making it a valuable opportunity for high-performing students.

Established by the South Carolina Education Improvement Act, the scholarship supports talented students who demonstrate exceptional achievement in high school through strong GPAs, test scores, and coursework.

The goal is simple: help retain top academic talent within the state and contribute to South Carolina’s higher education development.

Who Is Eligible for the Palmetto Fellows Scholarship?

To qualify for the Palmetto Fellows Scholarship, students must meet specific academic and residency requirements. These criteria ensure that recipients represent the highest-achieving students in the state.

1. Residency Requirements

Applicants must be South Carolina residents at the time of high school graduation and throughout the scholarship period.

2. Academic Requirements

You must meet one of the following sets of criteria:

Option 1: GPA, Class Rank & Test Score Route

Minimum 3.5 GPA (SC Uniform Grading Scale)
Top 6% class rank based on the sophomore, junior, or senior class ranking
Minimum 1200 SAT (Evidence-Based Reading + Math) or 27 ACT

Option 2: High GPA & Higher Test Score Route

Minimum 4.0 GPA
Minimum 1400 SAT or 31 ACT

These criteria ensure that the Palmetto Fellows Scholarship is awarded to students demonstrating strong academic potential.

Award Amounts for the Palmetto Fellows Scholarship

One reason the Palmetto Fellows Scholarship is highly sought after is its generous financial support. Award amounts may vary yearly, but the structure typically includes:

Freshmen & Sophomores

Up to $6,700 for the first year
Up to $7,500 for the second year

Juniors & Seniors

Up to $7,500 annually

For eligible STEM majors, students may receive enhanced amounts through the SC STEM Enhancement Program, which provides extra funding for juniors and seniors pursuing approved science, technology, engineering, or mathematics majors.

These award values make a major impact on reducing tuition expenses for South Carolina students.

How to Apply for the Palmetto Fellows Scholarship

The Palmetto Fellows Scholarship has a structured and deadline-specific application process. Students are encouraged to begin early to ensure all materials are completed and submitted on time.

1. School Counselor Recommendation

Your high school counselor or school official plays a major role in submitting your application. They verify your eligibility, academic record, test scores, and submission of required documents.

2. Submit Academic Records

You must provide:

Official high school transcripts
Standardized test scores (SAT or ACT)
Class ranking documentation (if applicable)

3. Complete the State Application

Once recommended by your high school, your application is submitted to the South Carolina Commission on Higher Education.

4. Follow the Early and Late Award Cycles

There are two application periods:

Early Award Cycle – for students who meet requirements by November of their senior year
Late Award Cycle – for those who meet requirements by June of senior year

This ensures that high-achieving students are not penalized for test date selection or later academic improvements.

Maintaining the Palmetto Fellows Scholarship in College

Receiving the Palmetto Fellows Scholarship is an achievement, but keeping it requires ongoing academic commitment.

To maintain eligibility, you must:

1. Enroll Full-Time

Students must remain full-time at an eligible South Carolina institution.

2. Maintain a 3.0 College GPA

A cumulative college GPA of 3.0 or higher is required.

3. Earn at Least 30 Credit Hours

You must complete a minimum of 30 credit hours per academic year.

These rules ensure recipients continue to display the strong academic performance the scholarship is known for supporting.

Benefits of the Palmetto Fellows Scholarship

The Palmetto Fellows Scholarship offers numerous benefits that support students academically and financially.

1. Significant Financial Support

Award amounts reduce tuition expenses, making college more affordable.

2. Encourages Academic Excellence

The program rewards students who excel academically, motivating future achievement.

3. Supports South Carolina’s Higher Education System

By encouraging talented students to attend in-state schools, the scholarship strengthens local institutions.

4. Enhanced Funding for STEM Majors

Students in STEM fields may receive additional funding to support their rigorous academic paths.

5. Renewable for Four Years

As long as students maintain eligibility, the scholarship can cover all four years of undergraduate study.

Tips to Increase Your Chances of Earning the Palmetto Fellows Scholarship

Since the Palmetto Fellows Scholarship is competitive, strategic preparation can improve your chances of meeting and exceeding eligibility criteria.

1. Maintain a High GPA Early

Strong academic performance during freshman and sophomore years makes meeting the GPA requirement easier.

2. Prepare for the SAT or ACT

Higher test scores not only meet eligibility but also make your application more competitive.

3. Take Challenging Coursework

Honors, Advanced Placement (AP), and dual enrollment courses help strengthen your academic standing.

4. Work Closely With Your School Counselor

Your counselor verifies your eligibility—maintaining communication ensures all documents are prepared correctly.

5. Aim for Early Award Cycle Eligibility

Applying early helps you avoid deadline pressure and positions you for priority consideration.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is the Palmetto Fellows Scholarship renewable?

Yes, it can be renewed annually as long as you meet GPA and credit requirements.

2. Can I use the scholarship outside South Carolina?

No, the scholarship is only valid for in-state institutions.

3. Can homeschool students apply?

Yes. Homeschool students can qualify if they meet the academic requirements and submit proper documentation.

4. Do I need financial need to qualify?

No. The scholarship is strictly merit-based.

Conclusion

The Palmetto Fellows Scholarship is a powerful opportunity for high-achieving South Carolina students. With generous award amounts, four-year renewal, and support for STEM majors, it remains one of the most valuable academic scholarships in the state. By understanding the requirements, preparing early, and working closely with school counselors, students can greatly increase their chances of receiving this prestigious award.

Palmetto Fellows Scholarship: Guide on How to Apply