International Student Enrollment Fee
If you are attending the University on an F-1 or J-1 student visa, you will be charged $200/semester. This will show up on your bill as "international student enrollment fee." For more details about the fee, see Policy ACAF 2.07.
Why is this fee charged?
International Student and Scholar Support maintains immigration compliance for the University of South Carolina so that we are legally permitted to accept F-1 and J-1 international students to programs of study at the University by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. This fee has existed in some form since the early 2000's.
Prior to 2018, the fee was a $750 one-time fee. To ensure equity among degree levels and to provide a less complex fee structure, a $200/semester international student enrollment fee was implemented for the 2018/2019 school year and beyond. This fee was approved by the Board of Trustees after a comprehensive review of our peer and peer aspirant universities.
What does this fee support?
This fee supports essential operations throughout the Global Carolina Unit. We are intent on providing you with optimal support that will propel you towards success.
Exchange Student Fee
If you are attending the University on an F-1 or J-1 student visa as an exchange, non-degree seeking student, you will be a charged $200/semester for the exchange fee, or "short term international student enrollment fee." This fee is charged in lieu of the international student enrollment fee.
Why is this fee charged?
International Student and Scholar Support maintains immigration compliance for the University of South Carolina so that we are legally permitted to accept F-1 and J-1 international students to programs of study at the University by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. In addition, ISS works to ensure that exchange students receive optimal support throughout their time at the University of South Carolina.
What does this fee support?
This fee directly supports the operations of the International Student and Scholar Support and the Education Abroad Offices. We are intent on providing you with optimal support that will propel you towards success.
SEVIS Maintenance Fee
As of August 19, 2021, students who apply for post-completion Optional Practical Training, STEM OPT Optional Practical Training, or post-completion J-1 Academic Training are subject to a $100 SEVIS maintenance fee.
Why is this fee charged?
International Student and Scholar Support maintains and continues to "sponsor" your immigration record while you are utilizing Optional Practical Training, STEM Optional Practical Training, or Academic Training. Whereas most employment visa categories in the U.S. require your employer to pay thousands of dollars to sponsor you and therefore may be cost-prohibitive, Optional Practical Training and Academic Training allow for you to pursue employment in your field without requiring employer sponsorship or immigration attorney involvement.
What does this fee support?
The SEVIS Maintenance Fee directly supports the operations of the ISS Office so that we can provide you with optimal immigration compliance service.