TCL offers higher education at a low price. Financial aid and scholarship packages make it more affordable (or even free)

Tuition & Fees

The Technical College of the Lowcountry offers higher education at a lower cost. In fact, we are the most affordable college in the region. Take a look at our tuition and fees here.

Financial Aid
Financial aid helps students and their families pay for college and can cover various educational expenses such as tuition and fees, books and supplies, and transportation. The first step is to complete the federal government’s Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) online at https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa. TCL’s school code is 009910. Here’s a BIG tip, start the financial aid process early because it takes time to complete! Remember, Financial Aid qualifications vary.

TCL Scholarships
TCL offers a variety of scholarships to support your higher education journey. Registered students interested in scholarships can apply in one convenient location through AwardSpring. Learn more on our Scholarships page here.

S.C. Lottery Tuition Assistance*
LTA can pay for nearly 40% of TCL’s tuition for South Carolina residents. LTA is available for eligible full-time and part-time students. For the 2023-2024 academic year, the award is $80 per credit hour. The main criterion is that you are a resident of South Carolina — award is not based on need or income.

*All rates are subject to change.


The Real Deal. Tuition Comparison. Tuition and fees, per full-time/12-hour semester at TCL is $1,550; at USC Beaufort is $5,340; at USC Columbia is $6,344; at College of Charleston is $6,259; at Clemson is $7,560; at Winthrop is $7,653. Comparison tuition information is based on Fall 2020reports from the South Carolina Commission on Higher Education. All are subject to change. TCL tuition and fees are based on Fall 2021 rates and reflect South Carolina Lottery Tuition Assistance. Contact the TCL Financial Aid Office for eligibility requirements and more information. All are subject to change.