Parent FAQ
Start with the questions that change the plan
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Checked against SCGSSM's published admissions pages on November 5, 2026.
Before you enroll
Questions from parents.
Who can apply to SCGSSM?
Only current 10th graders can apply. Ninth graders cannot, and the school does not admit students for senior year only. At least one parent or legal guardian must be a South Carolina resident. Military families with orders to move to South Carolina are also eligible. By the end of spring of 10th grade, students need 10.5 high school credits, including Geometry, Algebra 1 and Algebra 2, English 1 and 2, and a lab science.
Is there a minimum test score?
One score report is required: PSAT, Pre-ACT, SAT or ACT, taken since January 2026. Scores are one factor among several. Scores from before January 2026, such as 8th grade scores, are not considered.
What GPA does my student need?
The school says unweighted GPAs of 3.3 or higher are most competitive, with no set minimum. The enrolling Class of 2027 averaged 3.93 unweighted.
Can we apply from outside South Carolina?
At least one parent or legal guardian must be a South Carolina resident. Military families with orders to move to South Carolina are also eligible.
Can a homeschooled student apply?
Homeschooled students may apply and must meet the same requirements.
What does it cost?
There is no application fee and no tuition. The student meal fee is $3,528 per student per year for 2026-2027. It can change each year. There is a one-time, non-refundable security deposit of $100.
What if we cannot pay the meal fee?
Admissions are need-blind, and no admitted student is denied entry because they cannot pay the meal fee. Aid uses National School Lunch Program guidelines. Families get financial aid information and fee payment instructions at New Student Orientation in May.
Does my student live on campus?
Students live in two residence halls: Denny W. Neilson and James D. Daniels. Each floor is a House. Two students share a room, and four students share a suite with a joint bathroom.
When do families hear back?
Finalists are notified of interviews on Friday, March 5, 2027. Decision Day is Friday, April 9, 2027. Families must respond to a decision by Friday, April 16, 2027.
Can we visit before applying?
Preview Days are Saturday, November 14, 2026 and Saturday, February 6, 2027 (10th graders only). They are recommended for 10th and 9th graders. Shadow Days are for current 10th graders who have started an application. Students attend real classes, tour the residence halls and have lunch in the dining hall. Virtual sessions include Govie to Govie, Parent to Parent, GSSM Overview and Application Overview. Registration opens in September.
Who do I contact with a question?
Admissions: 843-383-3901 or admissions@governors.school.
Is SCGSSMPrep affiliated with SCGSSM?
No. SCGSSMPrep by EduAvenues is an independent service, not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by South Carolina Governor's School for Science and Mathematics. Check every requirement and date on the school's own website before you apply.
How current is the admissions information on this site?
The admissions facts on this site were last checked against the school's published pages on November 5, 2026. Schools can change requirements and dates at any time.