South Carolina Schools: What Families Need to Know
From enrollment to districts—here’s how to get started.
If you’re moving to South Carolina with children, one of your top priorities is likely finding the right school. South Carolina offers a wide range of public, private, and charter school options across the state’s diverse regions. Understanding how school enrollment works and which districts are best for your family can make your transition smoother.
Here’s what you need to know.
How to Enroll in a South Carolina Public School
Step 1: Find Your District & Zoned School
Enrollment is typically based on your home address. You’ll attend a school within your assigned district unless you apply to a charter or magnet program.
Step 2: Prepare Required Documents
To register your child, you’ll usually need:
Proof of residency (lease, mortgage, utility bill)
Child’s birth certificate
Immunization records (on SC DHEC form)
Previous school records (for transfers)
Photo ID of parent/guardian
Step 3: Register Online or In Person
Most school districts offer online enrollment through their websites. New students are encouraged to register before the start of the school year, which usually begins in early August.
🔍 Tip: Some districts have open enrollment windows or magnet programs with earlier deadlines. Check your district’s site for details.
School Districts by Region
Upstate South Carolina
This region is known for strong public schools, active parent involvement, and growing communities.
Greenville County Schools – Largest district in the state; offers magnet, STEM, and IB programs.
Spartanburg County Schools – Includes 7 smaller districts (Districts 1–7); each with unique offerings.
Anderson County – Divided into Districts 1 through 5, serving towns like Easley, Belton, and Anderson.
Pickens County – Popular for families living near Clemson and the foothills.
Midlands South Carolina
Centered around Columbia, this region blends urban and suburban education options.
Lexington County – Includes Districts 1, 2, 3, and 4. Lexington 1 and 2 are highly rated.
Richland County – Divided into Richland One (urban Columbia) and Richland Two (Northeast Columbia suburbs).
Kershaw County – Serves Camden and surrounding areas with a strong focus on college readiness.
Newberry & Orangeburg Counties – Offer smaller class sizes and rural learning environments.
Lowcountry South Carolina
This coastal region blends tradition, tourism, and growing school systems.
Charleston County School District – Offers magnets, charters, and academic choice programs.
Berkeley County School District – Growing quickly with suburban development near Summerville.
Dorchester District 2 – Highly rated schools in the Summerville area.
Beaufort County School District – Serves Hilton Head, Bluffton, and Beaufort with both traditional and arts-focused campuses.
Pee Dee Region
Known for rural communities and small-town values.
Florence 1 Schools – Largest district in the region; includes magnet schools and CTE programs.
Darlington County School District – Focus on community involvement and career prep.
Marlboro, Dillon, Marion & Williamsburg Counties – Offer smaller class sizes and tight-knit school communities.
Other Education Options
Charter Schools – South Carolina has a growing network of charter schools that offer alternatives to traditional public schools. Many have lottery-based enrollment.
Private & Faith-Based Schools – Available in most urban and suburban areas, especially around Columbia, Greenville, and Charleston.
Homeschooling – Legal and well-supported in SC. Parents must register through a district, association, or homeschool accountability group.
Need Help Finding the Right School?
Choosing a school is about more than test scores—it’s about the right fit for your child and your family. Our free relocation concierge service can help you:
Explore school districts based on where you plan to live
Understand enrollment timelines and documents
Get local insights into school culture and reputation