SC State offers $1,000 to juniors and seniors for off-campus housing amid shortage
Courtesy: SC State University
(WCIV) — South Carolina State University is addressing a potential housing shortage this fall by offering a $1,000 incentive to eligible juniors and seniors who secure off-campus housing.
The initiative aims to alleviate pressure on the university’s limited bed space, which is strained by record applications and high retention rates.
“SC State is clearly a top choice for students looking to improve their lives by advancing their education,” said President Alexander Conyers. “We are taking several measures to increase our housing inventory through renovations and new construction.”
Conyers explained that while the university works on long-term solutions, including renovations and new construction projects, immediate measures are necessary to manage the current housing demand.
The incentive is available to the first 150 eligible students who meet specific criteria, including being classified as juniors or seniors for the 2025–2026 academic year and having submitted a housing application.
The university has capped the size of the freshman class and implemented a housing waitlist. Currently, SC State can accommodate 2,220 students with available beds on campus and in affiliated off-campus facilities. However, the administration expects to serve about 3,300 students this fall.
SC State is undertaking several projects to expand housing capacity. The Queens Village Student Apartments have completed the first phase of renovations, adding 24 beds, and further renovations are planned. A $15 million renovation of Sojourner Truth Hall will begin this summer, addressing critical infrastructure needs and increasing capacity. Additionally, a new 500-bed residence hall is slated for completion in 2027.
Private developers are also contributing to the housing solution by building apartments near the campus and in downtown Orangeburg. Conyers is optimistic that these combined efforts will meet the university’s housing needs within a few years.
With over 15,000 applications received, SC State is no longer accepting applications for the Fall 2025 Semester. Prospective students are encouraged to apply for the Spring 2026 or Fall 2026 semesters.
