Freshmen Students
A different kind of community
Thinking of attending college for the first time? We invite you to learn more about how you would fit in at Southern Wesleyan University!
Located in Central, South Carolina, SWU is a Christ-centered, student-focused learning community devoted to transforming lives by challenging students to become dedicated scholars and servant-leaders who impact the world for Christ.
“I just want to say a big, big thank you to all the students and all the faculty that pushed me, that loved me, that invited me, and included me. It made a difference in my life and I am forever grateful and forever indebted to you.”Cameron Spear — 2022 Religion Graduate
Financial Aid & Tuition
It's true — college may be one of the biggest expenses you encounter over the next few years. But it can also be one of the best investments you'll ever make — and we'll help you every way we can. Take advantage of a variety of institutional scholarships and grants, as well as grants and loans through federal and state assistance. Each student is given personal consideration to fit the financial aid package to the student’s need through both institutional and government aid programs.
| Full Time Expenses - Per Year | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition (2025-2026) | $28,500 |
| Combined fees | $2,050 |
| Rooms (double) | $4,704 (minimum) |
| Meal Plan | $5,676 |
Admissions Process & Requirements
If you’re applying as a freshman student, you will need to submit your official:
- High school transcript
- SAT or ACT score(s) or utilize SWU’s *test optional admissions policy*
- The ACT school code for Southern Wesleyan University is 3837.
- The SAT school code for Southern Wesleyan University is 5896.
SWU has a test-optional admissions policy for students that have not taken the SAT or ACT. In lieu of these scores, if a student has an:
- Unweighted GPA of 3.0 or higher they do DO NOT need to submit an essay or letter of recommendation! Admissions will be able to admit them Regular status as test-optional.
- Unweighted GPA of 2.99 or below, they will need to submit an essay. It is also encouraged that the student submits a letter of recommendation.
Your admissions counselor will guide you through this process.
South Carolina residents still need to take SAT or ACT to qualify for state financial aid!
- A high school diploma or its equivalent. Your high school courses should include at least:
- Four units of English (college-preparation or equivalent)
- Two units of science
- Two units of social studies
- Two units of mathematics
- A GPA of 2.3 (or rank in upper half of your graduating class at time of acceptance) and a composite SAT score of 860 (based on the critical reading/verbal and math sections) or an ACT score of 18 or CLT score of 54
- Or a GPA of 3.0 or higher and no test scores
Conditional admission - Grade point average of less than 2.3 and/or SAT of 850 or below (combined Evidence Reading/Writing and Math) or an ACT of 17 or below (super score) will be considered on a case by case basis and may be reviewed by the University Admissions Committee process for consideration.
Accepted Students
Congratulations, you’re a Warrior! We’re thrilled that you’re joining the Warrior family, and we’re excited to see what God has in store for you at SWU. Now that you’re admitted, it’s time to explore your next steps so you’ll be prepared when you step onto campus.
Accepted Students