Capstone Scholars

USC's Top Performing Scholars

The Capstone Scholars Program is a two-year, invitation-only program for high-achieving students at the University of South Carolina. The program is designed to support students in connecting their academic experiences with meaningful beyond-the-classroom opportunities in six areas: common academic experiences, leadership, career readiness and professional development, global learning, undergraduate research and community service. Through these shared experiences, Capstone Scholars enjoy a thriving and engaging learning community.

Capstone Scholars are selected by Undergraduate Admissions based on their high-school acacdmic profile. No additional application required. All first-year University of South Carolina applicants will be automatically considered once they submit their USC application by the Dec. 1 deadline.

Capstone Scholars Delivers:

Instant connections through program faculty and staff support
Access to select academic courses, programs and experiences
A close-knit learning community
Intentional, structured focus on personal growth and leadership development
Tailored perparation for internships, continued education and professional careers
Exclusive funding opporutnities for undergraduate research and study abroad

Capstone Scholars Spotlights

Living and learning: Navia Vohra: Criminal justice major reflects on her experience in Capstone Scholars program

With a passion for service and building meaningful connections, out-of-state student Navia Vohra found her footing at USC through her involvement in the Capstone Scholars Program. Vohra is now using her skills to prepare for her future as a Naval Surface Warfare Officer and detective.

School of Medicine Greenville student reflects on how USC helped him develop a global perspective

When embarking on a medical mission trip to Costa Rica through the Capstone Scholars Program, JD Dawson cultivated a global health perspective that opened him up to the cross between clinical science and social factors of medicine and plans to pursue a career in holistic primary care and family medicine.

For Emma Jackson, every week is shark week

Emma Jackson credits the Capstone Scholars Program with equipping her with critical leadership skills and the confidence to take initiative, both of which she put into practice when conducting shark research in the Gulf. The program prepared her to lead with excellence in hands-on scientific environments.

Connection & Community

Challenge the conventional. Create the exceptional. No Limits.