AdmissionsOS Coastal Carolina University vs College of Charleston
| Coastal Carolina University | College of Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate lower = more selective | 75% | 60% |
| SAT range (mid 50%) | 1,050-1,220 | 1,140-1,310 |
| ACT range (mid 50%) | 21-26 | 25-30 |
| Average net price what students actually pay after aid | $13,966 | $18,960 |
| Sticker cost of attendance | $26,692 | $32,362 |
| Graduation rate | 48% | 66% |
| Retention rate | 77% | 82% |
| Undergraduates | 10,377 | 10,558 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 17:1 | 16:1 |
| Setting | Conway, SC | Charleston, SC |
| Type | Public | Public |
| Application fee | $45 | $60 |
| Test policy | Required for some | Required for some |
Highlighted values mark the stronger figure on cost and outcomes. Verified for the 2025-2026 cycle.
Compare these in the interactive toolCommon questions
Is Coastal Carolina University or College of Charleston harder to get into?
College of Charleston is more selective, with a 60% acceptance rate versus 75% at Coastal Carolina University. Both should be treated as reaches unless your stats sit at or above the mid-50% range shown above.
Which is cheaper, Coastal Carolina University or College of Charleston?
Coastal Carolina University has the lower average net price ($13,966 versus $18,960). Net price is what families actually pay after grants and scholarships, so it is a truer comparison than sticker price. Run each school's net price calculator for your own income.