Palmetto Fellows Scholarship Requirements | Apply Now (2025/2026 Guide)
Overview of the Palmetto Fellows Scholarship
The Palmetto Fellows Scholarship is South Carolina’s most prestigious merit‑based award, administered by the South Carolina Commission on Higher Education (CHE). It is designed to encourage academically talented students to attend college within the state. The scholarship provides significant financial support, valued at $6,700 for the first year and $7,500 for each subsequent year, renewable for up to eight semesters.
Unlike need‑based scholarships, the Palmetto Fellows program is strictly merit‑driven. It rewards students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, leadership, and commitment to higher education. Recipients are not eligible for other state scholarships such as the LIFE Scholarship or the SC HOPE Scholarship, making this award exclusive to South Carolina’s top scholars.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify, applicants must meet general eligibility criteria set by the CHE:
- Be a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident
- Be a South Carolina resident at the time of high school graduation
- Graduate from high school or complete an approved homeschool program
- Enroll as a full‑time degree‑seeking student at an eligible SC college or university immediately following graduation (unless approved for a gap year/term)
- Have no felony convictions and no second/subsequent alcohol or drug misdemeanors
- Not be in default on any state or federal loans
Additionally, students must meet academic benchmarks such as GPA, class rank, and standardized test scores. STEM majors may qualify for a Palmetto Fellows Scholarship Enhancement, worth an additional $2,500 per year.
Application Deadlines
The scholarship has two application windows:
- Early Deadline: May 1, 2026
- Late Deadline: July 15, 2026
Applications must be submitted by 11:59 PM on the deadline date. If the deadline falls on a weekend or holiday, it moves to the preceding Friday.
How to Apply
Students must apply through their high school guidance office, which submits applications to the South Carolina Commission on Higher Education. Required documents typically include transcripts, test scores, and proof of residency.
Official details and application packet: South Carolina CHE – Palmetto Fellows Scholarship
Who Should Apply
This scholarship is ideal for:
- High‑achieving South Carolina high school seniors
- Students planning to attend a two‑ or four‑year SC college or university
- STEM students seeking additional funding through the enhancement program
- Students committed to maintaining strong academic performance throughout college
Why Apply for the Palmetto Fellows Scholarship
The Palmetto Fellows Scholarship provides up to $30,000+ in total funding over four years, making it one of the most generous state scholarships in the U.S. It not only reduces financial burden but also recognizes academic excellence and leadership. For South Carolina residents, it is a top opportunity to pursue higher education with substantial financial support.