Charleston Southern University launches new scholarship program

Charleston Southern University (CSU) became the first private college in the state to help pay in-state students’ tuition costs when it launched “Buc Promise,” a new CSU scholarship program for Pell Grant-eligible students.

The scholarship covers the remainder of these students’ tuition costs not already funded by the Pell Grant and other financial aid.

The program is renewable each year, as long as students receiving it are able to maintain eligibility throughout their four years of education.

To qualify, students must reside in South Carolina, hold an unweighted GPA of 3.5, complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), enroll in a traditional degree program, be actively pursuing their first bachelor’s degree and be eligible for more than the minimum amount offered through the Pell Grant.

“For many students who are Pell-eligible, finances stand in the way of their dream of earning a bachelor’s degree,” said Dr. Anthony Turner, vice president of enrollment and marketing at CSU. “And many shy away from private education thinking that the educational costs are too high. Not only will Buc Promise break that barrier for our Pell-eligible applicants, but we hope this program will shine light on how students CAN afford a Christian higher education experience.”

The scholarship program will officially kick off ahead of the fall 2024 semester.

“As a first-generation college student and an alumnus of CSU, I can relate to the challenges and choices that so many students face,” said B. Keith Faulkner, CSU president. “Charleston Southern is where I earned the opportunity for a better life, and our commitment to creating an affordable and accessible private Christian higher education experience for South Carolina residents is a decision that will impact generations to come.”

For more information about Buc Promise, or to apply, visit charlestonsouthern.edu/bucpromise.