Online Learning and Support

Congratulations again on your admission to USCA Palmetto College! There are several steps before you begin classes. You can begin working on the following items:

1. Set-up Usernames and Passwords:

Self Service Aiken, your USCA student e-mail account and more. These are your tools to conduct official business within the University - apply for SC residency, accept financial aid offers, communicate with faculty, staff, etc.

2. 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. USCA's financial aid school code is 003449. Your award will appear on Self Service Aiken. For more information, visit the Office of Financial Aid website.

3. Participate in the Mandatory Orientation

USCA students are required to complete orientation before registering for courses. The orientation is a self-paced orientation course offered in Blackboard. Students who do not participate will not be advised or registered for classes. Details will be sent via email.

4. Citizenship 

You need to verify your citizenship (if you have not submitted the FAFSA). You will not be able to register for courses until your citizenship verification is complete.

5. South Carolina Residency

To claim South Carolina in-state residency for tuition and state scholarship purposes, please do so by logging into your Self Service Aiken account and completing the "South Carolina Residency Certification" process.

6. Have AP/IB/CLEP/Other placement test scores sent to USCA (if applicable)

USCA's school code is 5840. For information on scores we accept, visit the Accepted Academic Credit Transfers page.

7. Send Transcripts

If you are currently enrolled in courses, please have your transcript sent to the USCA Office of Admissions once you complete your final semester.

8. Sign-up for Advisement and Registration

Advisement will be conducted via phone, email, videoconferencing, or face-to-face. Online Advisors are trained to work specifically with online students.

9. Prepare for the Semester

Information regarding your specific program can be found on the Palmetto College website or in your orientation course on Blackboard.

Palmetto College students do not have to meet the immunization requirement nor attend an on-campus orientation.