Step 3: Set-Up Usernames and Passwords

Self Service Carolina, your USC Aiken student e-mail account and more. These are your tools to conduct official business with the University – apply for SC residency, accept financial aid offers, sign up for orientation, communicate with faculty, etc.

See how to set up usernames and passwords.

Step 4: Submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)

Early submission of your FAFSA can be crucial. You should apply as soon as possible to receive consideration for financial aid. The new FAFSA is available (www.fafsa.gov) each year on January 1. The USC Aiken financial aid school code is 003449. Students entering USC Aiken for the Fall semester will receive their financial aid offer (assuming FAFSA has been submitted and approved) online via Self Service Carolina beginning in early April. FAFSA submitted for any term will be processed upon receipt by the university. Please allow sufficient time for the federal government and university to process.

For more information, go to Financial Aid.

Step 5: Citizenship Verification

All students are required to complete the citizenship verification process in order to register for courses. Please complete the Citizen Verification form, sign, and return with at least one of the forms of identification listed. 

Step 6: Residency

All students are required to complete the Certification of South Carolina Residency online in Self Service Carolina.  For undergraduate students, completion of the Certification is also required for those seeking scholarships (HOPE and LIFE) through the State of South Carolina.

Step 7: Send transcripts

USC Aiken requires final transcripts (showing degrees awarded) from ALL universities you have attended.  Most universities send electronic transcripts and you will be able to choose University of South Carolina Aiken from a menu as a recipient school. If asked for an email address to send transcripts, please use the following:

RN/BSN        This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

MBA              This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

If postal mailing transcripts, please send to the following:.

Step 8: Advising & Course Registration, Attend Online Orientation, Pay Bill

Your admission letter will include contact information for your academic advisor.  Please contact your advisor to decide on first-term courses.  Once advised, you will register yourself online through the Self Service Carolina system.

View Course Registration Instructions

You will also be required to attend an online orientation for your academic program.  The orientation program is held online via BlackBoard (sign-in through your Self Service Carolina account).

It is critical that you pay for your courses before the due date for each term.  The university will communicate those dates via your USC Aiken email account, so please monitor that account daily.  Bill payment can be completed online through your Self Service Carolina account. Billing and payment will assist with payment information and options.