You’ve studied, you’ve prepared and now you’re ready to find the college experience that matches your vision for the future. Do you think you can change the world? We believe you can.
How to Apply
Completing your application is the first step to starting your journey at Converse. The sooner you apply, the greater consideration you will have for scholarships. The process is simple and there’s no application fee. Our “rolling admissions” approach means we are still accepting applications and deposits when other schools’ deadlines (including May 1st National Candidate Reply Date) have already passed.
- Complete your online application. You can also apply through the Common Application.
- Send us your high school transcript. You can request your transcript through your high school guidance office. If you’ve taken courses at multiple high schools or through dual enrollment at a local college, we’ll need those
- Converse is test-optional. If you feel your SAT and/or ACT scores accurately reflect your academic ability, you may send them to us using SAT code 5121 or ACT code 3852.
- If you’re interested in majoring in programs in music, musical theatre, dance, theatre, or art and design, you’ll also need to schedule an audition. See more information below.
- Are you a woman looking for an empowering undergraduate learning environment that focuses on mentorship, service, and leadership? Check out the Converse College for Women.
After Applying
- Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which is available online after October 1. More information about the FAFSA and financial aid is available through Student Financial Services.
- Plan your campus visit.
- Choose Converse! Commit to Converse by paying the enrollment deposit of $200 (which will be credited toward your tuition).
Visit Converse
A visit to Converse is the most authentic way to experience campus life. Immerse yourself in our vibrant, diverse community and get a close-up look at our affordable, top-ranked private education.
Excited to come to campus? Prefer to visit from home? Either way, we can’t wait to talk with you about the admissions process, learn about your college journey, show you around campus and answer all of your questions!
Attend an Event
We are excited for you to meet our faculty, engage with current students and check out life on campus. We are committed to offering you every opportunity to get to know Converse and imagine yourself as a student here. We are sure that our vibrant campus life, the dedication of our exceptional faculty and the opportunities that Converse has for you will be evident no matter how you visit us!
Cost, Scholarships and Financial Aid
| wdt_ID | 2025-2026 Tuition, Housing & Meals | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Full-Time Undergrad Tuition and Fees | $33,694 |
| 2 | Housing and Meals | $14,524 |
| 4 | SGA Fee | $450 |
| 5 | Total | $48,668 |
Tuition, housing and meals go further at Converse with many benefits such as included laundry, cable TV, and micro-fridges that you’d pay extra for at other colleges.
With very few exceptions, books and some supplies will now be covered at no additional cost to undergraduate students.
Students are responsible for some additional fees including Student Government Association, laboratory or studio costs, private music lessons, and others. More undergraduate tuition, housing and meals details can be found here.
You can find a full schedule of fees in the current academic catalog.
Scholarships and Aid
Academic Scholarships
By completing your application on time, you’re automatically considered for academic scholarships. These awards range in value based on students’ academic profiles.
Generous support from Converse alumni and donors and a strong endowment allow us to provide a wide array of scholarships and need-based grants. Converse University is pleased to offer endowed academic scholarships to incoming students ranging from $10,000 to $22,000 and are determined by academic credentials. Please contact the Office of Admissions for the criteria for each scholarship.
Converse Scholars Day
Admitted students with strong academic profiles will be invited to a Converse Scholars Day. Qualified students must be admitted to the college prior to November 1st or February 1st to receive an invitation to Converse Scholars Day. In addition to meeting top faculty and other Converse Scholars, you may receive additional academic scholarships in varying amounts, including full tuition and full comprehensive scholarships. These scholarships are awarded based on a faculty or staff interview as well as your merit, extra-curricular activities and community involvement.
Talent Scholarships for Athletics, Music, and the Arts
If you’re going to be competing as a Valkyrie for one of our NCAA II Division sports, contact your coach about potential scholarships. And, if you’re interested in studying music, musical theatre, dance, theatre, or the arts, see the information below about auditioning and additional aid.
State and Federal Awards
You may qualify for a wide range of merit and/or need-based awards from South Carolina or the Department of Education. Learn more about these awards.
School of the Arts Auditions, Portfolio Reviews, and Scholarships
Is your vision to develop your talents as an artist or performer? Converse School of the Arts (SOA) may be the answer to your quest. High school seniors are invited to compete for talent-based scholarships in Art, Dance, Music, Musical Theatre and Theatre or Creative and Professional Writing. To be admitted into the Petrie School of Music, auditions are required.
Audition and Portfolio Review Process
1. Complete your application for admission to Converse.
2. Submit the audition/portfolio application for your specific area of interest:
- Music, Theatre & Dance
- Musical Theatre
- Art Portfolio Review
- Creative and Professional Writing Portfolio Review
3. Submit one teacher recommendation letter prior to your audition or portfolio review date.
More details are listed on your audition application form.
4. Attend your audition or portfolio review
See the upcoming audition dates here. You may also be able to submit a recording or off-campus review.