State Benefit·South Carolina·🎓Education & Training

Free Tuition for Children of Certain Veterans

Free tuition at SC state-supported colleges and universities for children (age 26 or younger) of qualifying veterans.

Verified May 12, 2026againstscdva.sc.gov

Who qualifies

Dependents
  • Through veteran sponsor (any rating)
  • South Carolina residency

How to apply

$5,000-$13,000/year

Apply through the official South Carolina agency.

Open application

Details

Overview

Eligibility (per SC Code 59-111-20): Child must be age 26 or younger pursuing an undergraduate degree. Veteran parent must have served honorably during a US war period (as defined by Section 101 of Title 38 U.S.C.) and meet one of nine qualifying circumstances, including: killed in action, died from service-connected cause, permanently and totally disabled from any cause (per VA determination), missing in action, former POW, or awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor or Purple Heart. Both student and veteran (if living) must have established SC residency for at least 12 continuous months prior to application and remain current residents.

Covers

Tuition only (fees still apply) for undergraduate programs at SC state-supported colleges, universities, or technical institutions. Benefits begin upon receipt of approved application (not retroactive).

Always confirm current rates and rules with the South Carolina state agency before applying.

Other South Carolina Education & Training

See every benefit you qualify for in South Carolina

Get a personalized list of federal, state, and local veteran benefits based on your service history, disability rating, and South Carolina residency — in under 2 minutes.

Find My South Carolina Benefits