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What is SCWINS?

South Carolina residents enrolled in critical workforce programs that lead to an industry-recognized credential, certificate, diploma or degree are eligible for the South Carolina Workforce Industry Needs Scholarship (SCWINS). SCWINS covers the cost of tuition, fees and course-related expenses (up to $5,000 per academic year) for eligible programs.

Who is eligible to receive SCWINS funding?

You must:

  • be an eligible South Carolina resident*
  • be enrolled in an eligible program
  • complete the SCWINS acceptance form

*Students in default or overpayment of Title IV funds and non-US citizens are not eligible for SCWINS funds. For all eligibility requirements, view the policies and procedures for granting SCWINS (section VI) here.

Which programs are eligible for funding?

More than 100 programs are now eligible for no-cost tuition for the 2025-26 academic year. Click the area of interest below for no-cost tuition programs or search programs here.

*University Transfer, Associate in Arts and Associate in Science programs and the following three programs are not eligible for no-cost tuition: Art Foundations, Introductory University Studies and University Studies. 

NOTE: SCWINS tuition assistance will only be applied for courses required in the eligible program of study. Students are limited to one program of study unless the subsequent program constitutes progression in the same field of study. To retain SCWINS eligibility, students who graduate with a certificate or diploma must advance to the next credential in the same field.

How do I apply for SCWINS?

  • Apply to the college. It's free!
  • Complete the FAFSA. Completing the FAFSA may qualify you for no-cost tuition programs and other financial assistance. Need assistance with the FAFSA? Contact TTC's Educational Opportunity Center for help.
  • Complete the SCWINS acceptance form. A link will be provided after you have been admitted to the college and have registered for required courses in an eligible program of study.

If you are a traditional college student (not currently enrolled in high school) and you want more information about the SCWINS program, please email Financial Aid at financial.aid@tridenttech.edu.

NOTE: What does “no-cost tuition mean?”  For SC residents who qualify, your tuition is actually paid from sources other than your own funds. First, the college applies all federal and state assistance that you qualify for, including scholarships and grants. If you are eligible for SCWINS (up to $5,000 per academic year), these funds are applied after all other aid. Depending on your financial aid package, you may qualify for funds for tuition, fees, books, supplies and other materials.

Are dually enrolled high school students eligible for SCWINS?

For the 2025-26 academic year, TTC intends to award SCWINS to eligible DE students in three categories:

  1. Those enrolled in and pursuing state-identified priority programs. NOTE: Students must notify TTC to request and be admitted to a program of study.
  2. Those who are designated as Pupils in Poverty (PIP) regardless of program of study in which they are enrolled
  3. Those in a TTC course taught by a high school teacher (but only for these courses)

To be eligible, students in these categories must be U.S. citizens, SC residents and have submitted a signed SCWINS Affidavit form.

Students (and their parent/legal guardian) who are not in one of these categories will be responsible for the cost of tuition, fees and instructional materials (books or digital) after any other assistance (scholarships, grants, third-party sponsor payments) for which they are eligible has been applied.

SC Lottery Tuition Assistance is still available for students who qualify. 

If you have any questions, please email Katheryn Mason at katheryn.mason@tridenttech.edu.

Are continuing education/workforce training students eligible for SCWINS?

Continuing education/workforce training students who meet the criteria and are in a SCWINS eligible program can receive SCWINS tuition assistance. NOTE: SCWINS tuition assistance will only be applied for courses required in the eligible program of study. You can find eligible continuing education programs at the links above.

 

 

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