South Carolina Palmetto Fellows Scholarship

Palmetto Fellows is South Carolina's premier merit scholarship for the state's top-performing high school seniors attending an in-state college, administered by CHE. Under regulations effective May 22, 2026, it pays up to $6,700 the first year and up to $7,500 in years two through five, plus an optional $2,500/year Scholarship Enhancement (bringing the max to $10,000/year) for declared majors in education, math, science, accounting, engineering, computer science/IT, or health care/health-related fields. Eligibility follows one of two pathways: rank in the top 6% of class with a 3.50 GPA and an SAT of at least 1200 (or Commission-set equivalent ACT), or a 4.00 GPA with an SAT of at least 1400 (or equivalent ACT), with no rank requirement. Applications are submitted only by the student's high school, never by the student or family directly.

Eligibility

DemographicsApplications are submitted only by the high school — never by the student or family directly. No essay or recommendation letters are required. Current regulations are in effect for the 2026-27 cycle (effective May 22, 2026).

Applying

$6,700 first year, up to $7,500 years 2-5 for the standard award; the Scholarship Enhancement adds up to $2,500/year for eligible majors, for a combined max of $10,000/year.