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Off-Campus Housing Near University of South Carolina
About Off-Campus Housing Near University of South Carolina-Columbia
The University of South Carolina brings about 35,470 Gamecocks into Columbia, the state capital, which gives the city a built-in mix of students, lawmakers, and river life. The heart of campus is the Horseshoe, a shaded historic green of brick walkways and old oaks. Fall Saturdays move to Williams-Brice Stadium, where the Gamecocks burst out to the 2001: A Space Odyssey theme and fans tailgate at the famous Cockaboose Railroad. Five Points and the Vista frame the social scene off campus, and the Congaree River and its Riverwalk give you trails and water minutes from downtown. Soda City Market takes over Main Street every Saturday morning. The core is walkable and served by campus shuttles, so students get by on foot, bike, and bus.
University of South Carolina-Columbia Housing Requirements
Freshman Live-On Requirement
First-year students at the University of South Carolina are required to live on campus, so the off-campus search usually begins sophomore year. Freshmen settle into residence halls while they get oriented to Columbia and campus life.
Off-Campus Eligibility
You can appeal the live-on requirement if you have special circumstances or you are living locally with family, but it is an appeal through Housing rather than an automatic opt-out. Most students become eligible to move off campus once they have completed their first year.
Lease Timing
Columbia leasing is mostly standard, though lease structures vary by building type. The big purpose-built student buildings near campus typically lease by the bed, which protects you if a roommate drops, while older houses in Shandon and Olympia often run joint leases where everyone shares liability. Confirm occupancy limits, utility caps, and parking before a big group signs.