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Citadel Military College of South Carolina

📍 Charleston, South Carolina · Founded 1842

Overview

22.72%
Acceptance Rate
US News Ranking
3,761
Total Enrollment
$72,085
Median Salary
$20,723
Tuition (per year)
$21,096
Average Debt
73.93%
Graduation Rate
11:1
Student–Faculty Ratio

Citadel Military College of South Carolina is a public senior military college located in Charleston, South Carolina. Established in 1842, it is one of six senior military colleges in the United States and enrolls both members of the South Carolina Corps of Cadets and civilian graduate students. The college combines a liberal arts and professional education with military discipline and leadership training. Academic programs span business, engineering, education, humanities, and the sciences. Known for its structured environment and emphasis on character development, Citadel Military College of South Carolina attracts students interested in military service, public service, and leadership-focused careers.

Admission Requirements

545
SAT Math
540
SAT Critical Reading
22
ACT

With a 22.72% acceptance rate, Citadel Military College of South Carolina is selective. Admitted students usually have strong academic records, competitive test scores, and consistent involvement in extracurricular activities. While admission is competitive, applicants who demonstrate solid academic preparation and clear interests have a realistic chance of admission.

Cost & Financial Aid

$12,570
In-state Tuition
$38,508
Out-of-state Tuition
$20,723
Average cost after aid

History

Citadel Military College of South Carolina was founded in 1842 when the South Carolina Legislature established the South Carolina Military Academy in Charleston and Columbia. Created to provide military training and classical education for young men, the Charleston campus became widely known as The Citadel. During the Civil War, cadets participated in military actions, and the college closed in 1865 when Union troops occupied Charleston. It reopened in 1882 and gradually expanded its academic curriculum. In 1910, the institution officially adopted the name The Citadel, The Military College of South Carolina. In 1922, it relocated from Marion Square to its current campus along the Ashley River in Charleston. Over the twentieth century, Citadel Military College of South Carolina broadened academic offerings, introduced graduate programs, and maintained its identity as a senior military college while adapting to modern higher education standards.

Campus life

Total students3,761

Gender

Men86.43%
Women13.57%

Race & ethnicity

Undergraduate race and ethnicity

Citadel Military College of South Carolina has a 11:1 student-to-faculty ratio, providing a balance between personalized instruction and a broader classroom environment. Students can expect opportunities to engage with professors while also benefiting from diverse perspectives in class discussions.

Applying to Citadel Military College of South Carolina with Unive

Applying to Citadel Military College of South Carolina involves meeting academic admission standards as well as requirements for participation in the Corps of Cadets for undergraduate students. The college evaluates transcripts, standardized test policies as applicable, leadership experience, and personal character. Students interested in its military structure and leadership model should demonstrate discipline, initiative, and a commitment to service when applying to Citadel Military College of South Carolina.

Financial Aid at Citadel Military College of South Carolina

Citadel Military College of South Carolina offers a range of financial aid options, including federal and state grants, scholarships, military benefits, and need-based assistance. Eligible students may qualify for ROTC scholarships or veterans benefits, depending on their background. Understanding tuition costs, housing requirements for cadets, and scholarship opportunities is an important part of planning for attendance at Citadel Military College of South Carolina.

Build a Stronger Application with Unive

Unive helps applicants prepare competitive submissions to Citadel Military College of South Carolina through AI-powered guidance on essays, extracurricular strategy, and clear application positioning. Students can refine personal statements, highlight leadership experiences, and identify meaningful service involvement. Unive also supports financial aid discovery, helping applicants uncover scholarship and funding opportunities aligned with their goals.

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Quick Facts
TypePublic
Founded1842
Graduates1056
Undergrad Enrollment2705
SettingMidsize City
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