Private School Financial Aid in South Carolina
2026 programs, income limits, and how to apply
South Carolina has a state-funded voucher or ESA program, plus 2 other aid sources. Average tuition is $9,200/year and 40% of families receive some form of tuition reduction.
Check Your Eligibility
Enter your household income to see which South Carolina programs you might qualify for.
Gross income before taxes. Income limits shown for a family of 4; actual limits scale with household size.
South Carolina Financial Aid Programs
All available programs for private school families in 2026
Education Scholarship Trust Fund
Income-based ESA at 200% FPL (~$58K/family of 4). Up to $7,000/year
Income limit: $58,000/year (family of 4)
$7,000
/year max
Exceptional Needs Tax Credit
Scholarships for special needs students, funded by donor tax credits. No income limit
$11,000
/year max
School-based financial aid
Catholic Diocese of Charleston and independent schools offer tuition assistance
Varies
by school
The Full Picture in South Carolina
South Carolina launched its Education Scholarship Trust Fund in 2024 — it's new and growing. If your income is below 200% FPL, the $7,000 ESA covers most of the $9,200 average tuition. The Exceptional Needs tax credit is separate and has no income limit for families with special needs students. Catholic schools in the Diocese of Charleston and independent schools in Charleston and Greenville supplement with school-based aid. Apply early — the ESA had limited slots in its first year.
Want voucher-specific details? See our South Carolina school voucher eligibility page for income thresholds by household size, application links, and enrollment deadlines.
How to Apply for Aid in South Carolina
Apply for state programs first
Start with the state voucher/ESA. It's the biggest single award. Then apply for tax credit scholarships if available.
Apply for school-based aid at every school
Most schools use TADS, FACTS, or SSS for financial aid assessment. Apply by January-February for the following school year. School aid stacks with state programs.
Check private scholarship organizations
Local nonprofits, community foundations, and religious organizations often provide additional scholarships. Search "[your city] private school scholarships" for local options.
Financial Aid in Other States
More Tools for South Carolina Families
South Carolina Voucher Eligibility
Income limits and application links
Private School Costs in South Carolina
Tuition by school type and grade
How to Afford Private School in South Carolina
Strategies and payment plans
All State Voucher Programs
17 active ESA/voucher states
Private School Cost Calculator
Compare costs across states