How to Apply for Palmetto Fellows Scholarship in 2026

Are you a smart high school student in South Carolina? Do you dream of going to college? This guide is all about “How to apply for Palmetto Fellows Scholarship in 2026.” This special scholarship helps South Carolina students pay for college. It is for those who work very hard and get great grades. It can give you a lot of money for school! Applying might seem tricky, but don’t worry. This guide will make it easy to understand everything. We will show you how this important scholarship works and how to apply step-by-step.

What is the Palmetto Fellows Scholarship in 2026?

The Scholarship is a special award for students who work very hard in high school. It is for students who do very well in their studies. This scholarship helps them go to college in South Carolina.

• Name of the institution offering the scholarship: This Scholarship Program is run by the South Carolina Commission on Higher Education (SC CHE). This is a group that helps with college education in South Carolina.
  
• Origin or background of the scholarship: This scholarship started a long time ago, in 1988. It was made to find the smartest high school students in South Carolina. The goal was to help these students go to college right here in South Carolina. It also wanted to keep talented students, including minority students, from going to colleges outside the state.
  
• Who the scholarship is meant for (ideal candidates): This scholarship is for high school seniors in South Carolina. These are students who have shown they are very good at their schoolwork. They have excellent grades and test scores.
  
• Total value of the scholarship:
  
  • For students in their first year of college (freshmen), the scholarship can be up to $6,700 each year.
  • For students in their second, third, and fourth years of college (sophomores, juniors, and seniors), the scholarship can be up to $7,500 each year.
  • There’s also a special extra amount called an “Enhancement.” If you study certain subjects like math or science, you can get an extra $2,500 each year starting from your second year. This means some students can get up to $10,000 per year!
• Number of available slots/seats: The number of students who get this scholarship depends on how many students meet the high standards. There isn’t a fixed number of “slots.” If you meet the rules, you can apply.
  
• Start date of the program: The scholarship is for students who start college in the fall semester, right after they graduate from high school. There are some exceptions for a “gap year” if you don’t take any college classes.
  
• Application deadline:
  
  • For students graduating in the Class of 2026, the Early Application Closed on April 15, 2026.
  • The Late Application Opens on May 15, 2026, and Closes on June 30, 2026.
  • It is very important to send in your application by 11:59 PM on the deadline date. No late applications are accepted.
    
• Month when applications usually open: The Early Application usually opens in June of the year before graduation. The Late Application opens in May of the graduation year.

Palmetto Fellows Scholarship in 2026 – Coverage

The Scholarship helps students pay for college. Let’s see what it covers.

• Whether it covers only tuition or also other costs: The scholarship money is meant to help with the “cost of attendance.” This means it can help pay for more than just your classes (tuition). However, the money is first used to pay for your school bills. The total amount you get from this scholarship, plus any other money you get for college, cannot be more than the total cost of going to that school.
  
• Living expenses: If the scholarship money and other aid are more than your direct school bills (like tuition and fees), the extra money can be given back to you. You can then use this money for other things, like living expenses. This could be for housing, food, and other costs of living while you are in college.
  
• Books and study materials: Yes, if there is extra money after your tuition and fees are paid, you can use it for books and other things you need for your classes.
  
• Travel expenses: The scholarship itself does not directly pay for travel. But if you get extra money back, you can use it for travel to and from college.
  
• Any other financial or non-financial support:
  
  • Financial Support: The main support is the money given for college. Remember, you can get an extra $2,500 if you study certain math and science subjects (STEM or Health Professions).
  • Non-Financial Support: This scholarship helps you go to a college in South Carolina. This means you can stay closer to home if you want. It also shows you are a very smart student, which is good for your future.
  • The scholarship is typically given for the Fall and Spring semesters. It can sometimes be used for summer terms if you meet certain rules and are planning to graduate early.

Benefits of Palmetto Fellows Scholarship in 2026

Getting the Scholarship is a big deal! It helps students in many ways.

• Financial support details:
  
  • Direct Money: The biggest benefit is the money. It can be up to $6,700 for your first year and $7,500 for the next three years. This helps a lot with college costs.
  • Extra Money for Certain Studies: If you choose to study science, technology, engineering, or math (STEM), or a health profession, you can get an extra $2,500 each year after your first year. This means even more money for college.
  • Flexibility: While it first pays for school bills, any money left over can be used for things like rent, food, or books. This gives students more freedom with their money.
• Platform-based advantages:
  
  • Stay in South Carolina: This scholarship is only for colleges in South Carolina. This is great for students who want to stay in their home state.
  • Access to Quality Education: South Carolina has many good colleges. This scholarship helps you get into and pay for these schools.
• How it boosts the student’s profile:
  
  • Prestigious Award: The Palmetto Fellows Scholarship is a very well-known and respected award. Getting it shows that you are a very smart and hard-working student.
  • Looks Good on Resumes: When you apply for jobs or other programs later, having this scholarship on your resume tells people you are excellent. It shows you have achieved a high level in your studies.
  • Confidence Boost: Knowing you earned such a special scholarship can make you feel more confident about your abilities.
• Career or academic benefits after receiving the scholarship:
  
  • Less Debt: With scholarship money, you might need to borrow less money for college. This means you will have less debt to pay back after you graduate. Less debt means more freedom when you start your career.
  • Focus on Studies: When you don’t have to worry as much about money, you can put more time and energy into your schoolwork. This can help you do even better in college.
  • Opens Doors: Graduating with strong academics and less debt can open doors to better job opportunities or higher education programs (like graduate school).
  • Networking: Being a Palmetto Fellow might connect you with other smart students and professionals. These connections can be helpful for your future.

Palmetto Fellows Scholarship in 2026 – Eligibility Criteria

To get the Scholarship, you need to meet some important rules. These rules are about where you live, your grades, and your test scores.

• Is it for U.S. citizens only or open to international candidates?
  
  • It is for U.S. citizens or permanent residents (people with green cards).
  • You must be a legal resident of South Carolina when you graduate from high school.
• Which countries are eligible?
  
  • This scholarship is only for students who are legal residents of South Carolina, USA. It is not for international students from other countries, unless they are U.S. citizens or permanent residents and meet South Carolina residency requirements.
• Minimum educational qualifications required:
  
  • You must graduate from a high school in South Carolina that is approved, or an approved homeschool program in South Carolina. If you went to an out-of-state high school, you must have been a dependent of a legal South Carolina resident.
  • You need to be enrolled as a full-time student in a program that leads to a college degree at a college in South Carolina.
• Necessary certifications (language, academic, etc.):
  
  • Academic Requirements (choose ONE of these two paths):
    • Path 1 (with class rank):
      • Score at least 1200 on the SAT (Math and Evidence-Based Reading & Writing) OR 25 on the ACT. These scores must be from tests taken by the March test date of your graduation year for early application, or the June test date for late application. You can use your highest scores from different test dates (superscore).
      • Have a cumulative GPA (grade point average) of at least 3.50 on the South Carolina Uniform Grading Policy (SC UGP) at the end of your junior year.
      • Rank in the top six percent of your class at the end of either your sophomore or junior year.
    • Path 2 (without class rank):
      • Score at least 1400 on the SAT (Math and Evidence-Based Reading & Writing) OR 31 on the ACT. These scores must be from tests taken by the March test date of your graduation year for early application, or the June test date for late application. You can use your highest scores from different test dates (superscore).
      • Have a cumulative GPA of at least 4.00 on the South Carolina Uniform Grading Policy (SC UGP) at the end of your junior year. (Class rank does not matter for this path.)
  • Other important rules:
    • You cannot have been found guilty of any serious crimes (felonies) or a second or more alcohol or drug-related minor crimes.
    • You cannot be behind on payments or owe money for any federal or state student loans.
• List of documents to attach:
  
  • Your high school counselor will play a big role in sending in some documents.
  • Official high school transcript(s): This shows all your grades and classes. If you are using your sophomore or junior year rank, those transcripts are needed too.
  • Official rank report: If you are using class rank to qualify, your school needs to send an official report of your rank.
  • Test score verification: Your SAT or ACT scores need to be sent directly from the testing company to the SC CHE (SAT code: 4313, ACT code: 6326).
  • Affidavit/Certification Form: Once you are awarded, you will need to complete a form, often called a South Carolina State Scholarship/Grant Certification or Palmetto Fellows Affidavit. This confirms you meet all the rules.
  • Designation Form: You will need to complete an online form to tell the Commission which college you plan to attend in South Carolina to use the scholarship.
• Application method: online or offline:
  
  • The application process is mostly online.
  • Students complete their part online.
  • High school counselors also complete a part online and send in supporting documents electronically or by mail.

Step-by-Step Application

Applying for the Palmetto Fellows Scholarship involves a few important steps. It’s important to follow all the instructions carefully.

• Link to the official scholarship application form:
  
  • The application is usually accessed through a portal. Your high school counselor will be key in this. The general website to look for information is the South Carolina Commission on Higher Education (CHE) website.
  • Students typically access their part of the application through a link provided by their counselor or on the CHE website. However, always check the current year’s instructions on the official CHE website or with your counselor, as links can change.
• Instructions to fill out the form:
  
  • Work with your High School Counselor: This is the most important step! Your counselor helps identify eligible students and submits some of your school information. They will tell you when you can access your part of the online application.
  • Student Online Application (Part I):
    • Once your counselor tells you, you will go to the online application link.
    • You will fill in your personal information. This includes your name, address, contact details, and Social Security Number.
    • You will also need to provide academic information, like your GPA and test scores. Make sure this matches what your high school will send.
    • You will likely need to provide your high school counselor’s email address, as they will be notified when you submit your part.
    • Important: You must complete and submit your part of the application online by the deadline (April 15, 2026, for Early; June 30, 2026, for Late).
  • Counselor’s Portion (Part II): Your counselor will complete their part of the application online. They will confirm your academic information (GPA, class rank, test scores) and submit official documents from your school.
  • Send Test Scores: You must make sure your official SAT or ACT scores are sent directly from the testing service (College Board for SAT, ACT for ACT) to the SC CHE. Use the correct codes: SAT (4313) and ACT (6326). Make sure scores are received by the CHE by the stated deadlines (e.g., July 15, 2026, for late application test scores).
  • Designation Form: If you are awarded the scholarship, you will get a notification. Then, you MUST complete an online “Designation Form.” This form tells the SC CHE which eligible South Carolina college or university you plan to attend. This is how the scholarship money gets sent to your chosen school. The deadline for this is usually August 31st. You will likely find this form on your student dashboard once your application is processed.
• How to upload documents:
  
  • For students, typically, you don’t upload many documents yourself directly to the application form. Your high school counselor is responsible for sending official transcripts and rank reports.
  • Test scores are sent directly from the testing companies.
  • Any required affidavits or certifications will likely be filled out online or on a form you sign and submit.
• Accepted formats for images/documents (PDF, JPG, etc.):
  
  • If you are required to upload a document, a PDF is usually the preferred format for official papers like transcripts. JPG is common for images. However, the online application system will usually specify the accepted formats if there are any direct uploads for students. For the Palmetto Fellows, most documents, like transcripts, are submitted by the counselor or directly by the testing agencies.
• Application deadline:
  
  • Early Application Close: April 15, 2026
  • Late Application Close: June 30, 2026
  • Test Score Receipt Deadline (Late Application): July 15, 2026 (scores must be received by CHE)
  • Designation Form Deadline: August 31st
• Common mistakes applicants should avoid:
  
  • Missing Deadlines: The deadlines are very strict. Missing even one deadline (for application submission, test scores, or the Designation Form) can mean you lose the scholarship.
  • Not Communicating with Counselor: Your high school counselor is a key helper. Make sure you talk to them early and often about the scholarship. They need to submit your school’s information.
  • Incorrect Information: Double-check all information you put on the application form. Make sure your GPA, test scores, and other details are correct and match your official records.
  • Not Sending Official Test Scores: Remember, you must arrange for the SAT or ACT scores to be sent directly to the SC CHE using their specific codes. Simply putting your scores on the application is not enough.
  • Forgetting the Designation Form: Many students are awarded the scholarship, but forget to complete the Designation Form. Without this form, the scholarship money cannot be sent to your college. This is solely the student’s responsibility!
  • Not Understanding Eligibility: Carefully read all the eligibility rules. Make sure you meet ALL of them. If you are close to a cutoff, consider re-taking tests if possible before the final deadline.

Important Points of Interest, Concerns, and Common Problems

When students and parents look for information about the Palmetto Fellows Scholarship in 2026, they often have similar questions and worries. Here’s a look at what people are searching for and discussing, in simple words.

Points of Interest

These are the things people want to know most about the Scholarship. They are the exciting parts!

• How much money can I get?
  
  • Many students and families want to know the exact dollar amount. They are interested in the $6,700 for the first year and $7,500 for later years.
  • The extra $2,500 for certain science and math studies (STEM Enhancement) is also a great interest. People want to know if their chosen major will qualify for this extra money.
• What grades and test scores do I need?
  
  • People search a lot for the specific GPA (grade point average) and SAT/ACT scores.
  • They want to know the “magic numbers” for the 3.50 GPA and 1200 SAT / 25 ACT, or the 4.00 GPA and 1400 SAT / 31 ACT.
  • They also look for details about class rank (top 6%).
• When are the deadlines?
  
  • Knowing when to apply is very important. People are always looking for the dates for Early Application (April 15, 2026) and Late Application (June 30, 2026).
  • They also want to know when test scores need to be sent in (like by July 15, 2026, for late applicants).
• Can I take a “gap year”?
  
  • Some students want to take a year off between high school and college. They look to see if they can still get the scholarship after a gap year. (Yes, if no college classes are taken and they reapply.)
• How does it compare to other scholarships?
  
  • Students often compare Palmetto Fellows to the LIFE Scholarship and HOPE Scholarship. They want to know which one they might get and which gives the most money.

Points of Concern

These are the worries or tricky parts that people discuss when applying for the Palmetto Fellows Scholarship.

• Missing a deadline.
  
  • This is a very big worry. If you miss a deadline for applying, sending test scores, or filling out the Designation Form, you could lose the scholarship.
  • People often ask if there are any “grace periods” or ways to apply late, but the deadlines are usually very strict.
• Getting test scores to CHE on time.
  
  • Students worry if their SAT or ACT scores will get to the South Carolina Commission on Higher Education (CHE) by the deadline.
  • They wonder if they should send scores extra early. (Yes, it’s a good idea to send them well before the deadline!)
• Converting grades to SC Uniform Grading Policy (SC UGP).
  
  • Some high schools use different grading systems. Students and counselors worry about correctly converting grades to the SC UGP to make sure the GPA meets the scholarship rules. This is especially true for private or homeschool students.
• Understanding the “Enhancement” scholarship.
  
  • While the extra $2,500 for STEM is great, students and parents sometimes find the rules for getting it a little confusing. They want to know exactly what majors count and if they need to do anything special to get it.
• What if my class rank changes?
  
  • For students using class rank to qualify, there’s a concern about their rank changing between their sophomore and junior years, or if it’s calculated late.

Common Problems

These are the mistakes or difficulties that many students run into when trying to get the Palmetto Fellows Scholarship.

• Late submission of any part.
  
  • This is the number one problem. Students might submit their part of the application on time, but if the counselor’s part or the test scores are late, the whole application might be rejected.
• Not sending official test scores correctly.
  
  • A common mistake is thinking that just putting the scores on the online form is enough. No! The scores must be sent directly from the SAT/ACT testing company to CHE using the correct codes (SAT: 4313, ACT: 6326).
  • Some students try to send a picture or printout of their scores, but CHE needs the official report.
• Not filling out the “Designation Form.”
  
  • Students get excited when they receive the scholarship award email, but then they forget this very important last step. The Designation Form tells CHE where to send the money. If this isn’t done by August 31st, the scholarship might not be given out.
• Issues with high school counselors.
  
  • Sometimes, there are delays or misunderstandings between the student and the high school counselor about what needs to be submitted and when. Good communication with your counselor is key to avoiding this.
• GPA calculation issues.
  
  • Especially for students from schools that don’t use the SC UGP, correctly calculating and reporting the GPA can be a challenge. Making sure the transcript shows the correct UGP GPA and “date calculated” is vital.
• Thinking, “Early Application” means they automatically qualify.
  
  • The Early Application is only for students who already meet all the qualifications at the time of application. Some students might apply early, hoping their scores or GPA will improve, but that’s not how it works for the early deadline. If they don’t meet the rules, they might need to submit a Late Application.
• I am not a resident of South Carolina.
  
  • Some students might be living in SC temporarily or may not meet the full residency rules. This scholarship is strictly for legal residents of South Carolina.

Conclusion

So, we learned many important things about the Palmetto Fellows Scholarship! It is a great way to get money for college in South Carolina. We talked about how much it pays, who can get it, and how to apply. Remember to check all the rules very carefully. Always meet all the deadlines. Working closely with your school counselor is super important, too. If you are a smart student, don’t miss out! Apply for this great scholarship to help make your college dreams come true. Keep learning and striving for your best!

FAQs

What is the Palmetto Fellows Scholarship?

It is a special scholarship for smart high school students in South Carolina. It helps them pay for college in South Carolina. It is based on how well students do in school.

Who can get the Palmetto Fellows Scholarship in 2026?

You need to be a high school student in South Carolina. You must be a U.S. citizen or a green card holder. You also need to live in South Carolina.

What grades do I need for Palmetto Fellows?

You need good grades. You also need a high score on the SAT or ACT. There are two ways to qualify with grades and test scores.

What SAT/ACT score do I need for Palmetto Fellows?

For early awards, you need at least a 1200 on the SAT or a 25 on the ACT. For late awards, you can use a June test score of 1200 SAT or 25 ACT. There is also a higher score option of 1400 SAT or 31 ACT with a higher GPA.

When is the deadline to apply for Palmetto Fellows in 2026?

There are two deadlines. The early application deadline is April 15, 2026. The late application deadline is June 30, 2026.

How do I apply for the Palmetto Fellows Scholarship?

Your high school counselor helps you apply. You will fill out an online application. Your school will send in your grades and test scores.

Can I take a gap year and still get the scholarship?

Yes, you can take a gap year. You cannot take college classes during your gap year. You will need to reapply for the scholarship.

How much money does the Palmetto Fellows Scholarship give?

First-year students can get up to $6,700. In later years, you can get up to $7,500. There can be more money for certain majors like science or math.

What are the rules to keep the scholarship each year?

You need to earn at least 30 college credits each year. You also need to keep a good GPA, usually a 3.0 or higher.

What if I go to a two-year college first?

The Palmetto Fellows Scholarship is mostly for four-year colleges. It can sometimes be used for the first two years at a two-year college.