From staff reports
The South Carolina Governor’s School for the Arts and Humanities, a top-ranked public, residential high school for artistically talented students, is now accepting applications for the 2026-2027 school year and summer programs. South Carolina residents in Grades 6–11 are encouraged to apply online at SCGSAH.org.
The tuition-free, residential high school program currently serves 10th–12th-Grade students who receive pre-professional training in creative writing, dance, drama, film, music, and visual arts.
Beyond its highly acclaimed arts programming, the school also offers a rigorous high school education. SAT and ACT scores consistently ranking above state and national averages. Graduates receive arts and academic scholarships to some of the nation’s most prestigious colleges, universities, and conservatories.
The reviews and rankings site, Niche, has recognized the Governor’s School as the “Best High School for the Arts in SC,” the second “Best Public High School Teachers in SC,” and among the top five “Best College Prep High Schools in SC.”
Governor’s School students are consistently recognized in regional and national arts competitions, including YoungArts, the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards, Youth America Grand Prix, and U.S. Presidential Scholars in the Arts. Distinguished alumni have been named South Carolina Teachers of the Year and have won Emmy, Tony, Grammy, and Webby awards
In addition to the Residential High School program, each summer, the Governor’s School hosts hundreds of students for overnight, immersive arts programs in creative writing, dance, drama, film, music, and visual arts. These artistic experiences allow students to explore and expand their artistic abilities while learning the fundamentals of their chosen discipline from professional artists in a supportive and inclusive environment.
All interested students or parents can apply online at SCGSAH.org and complete the necessary application and/or audition requirements for their chosen program. The priority application deadline for all programs is Jan. 10, 2026. Applications will be accepted until all openings are filled. Financial assistance is available for all programs through the Governor’s School Foundation.
The Governor’s School is hosting two sessions of its annual Go Govie! Day on Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025, and Jan. 10, 2026, where interested students and their families can tour campus, attend arts demonstrations, and learn more about Governor’s School programs. To register, visit www.scgsah.org/go-govie-day.
