Florence, SC & the Pee Dee Region
Your Community Guide
29501 · The Community Hub
Every year, Florence County students leave millions on the table. Not because they don't qualify — because they don't apply. Here is everything available and how to actually get it.
That number comes from the South Carolina Higher Education Tuition Grants Commission. Florence County students consistently rank among the top earners in the state.
The difference between a student who gets funding and one who doesn't is rarely grades. It's usually information — knowing what exists, knowing the deadlines, and actually applying.
Class of 2025 Awards
Major SC State Programs
ECC Foundation Funds
For SC Lottery Tuition
These are the big ones. Every Florence County student heading to a SC public college or technical school should know all six.
For students ranking in top 75% of graduating class. Must have at least a 3.0 GPA. Covers up to $5,000 per year at four-year institutions, up to $2,500 at technical colleges.
For students ranking in top 75% who also score 910 on SAT or 17 on ACT. Must maintain 3.0 cumulative GPA in college. Awards range from $300 to $10,000 annually.
Top-tier award. Must score 1200 SAT (CR+M) or 25 ACT AND rank in top 6% of class, OR score 1400 SAT/30 ACT regardless of rank. Award: $6,700 to $10,000/year.
For students attending independent (private) colleges in SC. Based on need as determined by FAFSA. Up to $3,000 per year. Many Florence students qualify without realizing it.
Workforce development scholarship for technical college students in high-need programs. Covers remaining tuition and fees after other aid. Welding, HVAC, healthcare, and more qualify.
Available at technical colleges for students who don't qualify for other state aid. Pays remaining tuition after Pell and other grants. Florence County students at FDTC regularly qualify.
Complete the FAFSA at studentaid.gov by June 30. SCCHE automatically determines eligibility for HOPE, LIFE, and Palmetto Fellows using your FAFSA data and high school transcript. Your school's guidance counselor submits the ranking.
These are specific to the Pee Dee region. Some have deadlines throughout the year, some have small applicant pools. Do not skip them.
11 scholarship funds in one application
This is the single most important local scholarship resource in Florence County. ECCF administers 11 different scholarship funds through one application. Students who apply are considered for all funds they qualify for. The application typically opens in January and closes in March.
For students pursuing healthcare careers who commit to working at McLeod Regional Medical Center after graduation. Covers tuition for nursing, allied health, and medical technology programs.
Learn moreFor high school students who can write and deliver a 3-5 minute speech on a Constitutional topic. Awards range from local to state level. Held annually through local American Legion posts.
Contact your school's civics or government teacherSociety of Professional Engineers in SC offers scholarships for students pursuing engineering or engineering technology degrees. Multiple awards available at varying amounts.
Visit SCSPENational Merit Semifinalists who list College of Charleston as their first-choice school can receive substantial awards. CofC has an active National Merit recruitment program.
Requires NMSC designationStudents considering private colleges or nearby state institutions should check each school's specific merit aid programs. These are often stackable with state scholarships.
Hartsville, SC (45 min from Florence)
Academic Merit Awards
Based on GPA and test scores, up to $28,000/year
Performance Scholarships
Art, music, theatre, athletics — separate application
Stackable with State Aid
Merit awards can be combined with LIFE, Palmetto Fellows
Aiken, SC (2 hours from Florence)
Academic Excellence Scholarship
Top students can receive full in-state tuition plus housing
Transfer Scholarships
Available for students transferring from FDTC or other tech colleges
Regional Campuses
USC Aiken at the Pee Dee (nearby option — check current programs)
FDTC is one of the most affordable ways to earn a credential in Florence County. Most students qualify for some form of financial aid that covers their costs entirely. Here's what to know:
FDTC School Code for FAFSA:
003990
2715 West Lucas Street
Florence, SC 29501
Start here. These two resources will connect you to the most money with the least confusion.
Opens October 1 each year. Takes about 30 minutes. Required for Pell, HOPE, LIFE, Palmetto Fellows, and SC WINS.
Start FAFSAOne application through ECCF covers 11 scholarship funds. Opens in January, closes in March. Don't miss the window.
Apply at ECCFNeed help with your application? SC Works Pee Dee offers free assistance with FAFSA and scholarship applications.
This page is maintained by HelloFlorenceSC.com for Florence County students and families. All external links point to official government, educational, or nonprofit organizations.
This page is maintained by HelloFlorenceSC.com for Florence County students and families. All external links point to official government, educational, or nonprofit organizations.