Opportunity Scholars Program

The Opportunity Scholars program (OSP) helps motivate students to obtain a four-year degree (and beyond) from the colleges of their choice. Through academic advisement and developmental support, the OSP staff will strive to provide students with a solid foundation on which to help them succeed in college.

The Opportunity Scholars Program (Student Support Services) is one of the eight TRIO programs funded by the United States Department of Education. The program is designed to help first generation college students make the adjustment to college life. Whether you have recently graduated from high school or you have been out of school for a while and just returning, OSP offers a number of services that can help you make a smooth transition.

Interested in OSP

OSP Summer School Scholarship 2024 Application

Student schedules, courses, grades, etc. are closely monitored each semester. Individuals as well as group sessions are held with the students to assist in time management, study skills, and test-taking skills.

OSP offers students one-to-one, individualized tutoring. All tutoring is monitored by our specialists and academic progress is charted.

Assistance is provided to students in assessing their career plans and setting realistic goals. Faculty members are consulted concerning students' career choices and related course work.

Services to assist students in the transition to a 4-year university are provided. College visits are offered.

OSP arranges on and off campus cultural events for each participant.

Assistance is provided to students in the completion of FAFSA, acquiring scholarships, grants, and other means.

Two thirds of the program participants must be first generation college students with financial and academic need. The remaining 1/3 may either be first generation OR have financial need OR be disabled.

Early Start

The Early Start Program is our summer bridge pre-college entrance program designed to help recent high school graduates make a smooth transition from high school to college.

The objectives of the Early Start Program are as follows:

to expose students to new academic learning experiences;
to provide, when necessary, academic developmental assistance to each student;
to assist students in understanding and coping with their new environment.

Early Start, co-sponsored by the University of South Carolina Lancaster Upward Bound Program and offers two real college courses, University 101 and Physical Education 104.