Ask a Student/FAQs

You may find that questions about GSSM, living away from home and the application process arise as you learn about GSSM. Check out the frequently asked questions below.

If you feel your question may best be answered by a current GSSM student, we have several student ambassadors and representatives of the Admissions Office eager to answer questions from prospective students. You may fill out our "Ask a Student" contact form or email them directly at ambassador@gssm.k12.sc.us or admissions@gssm.k12.sc.us.

Another way to get more information about GSSM is to add your name to the Governor's School mailing list for prospective students.

Can anyone apply to GSSM?

Yes. But applicants need to take the ACT, PSAT, SAT or PLAN test before January of their sophomore year. Applicants will also need to provide an official high school transcript and three written recommendations. A prospective student must be a legal resident of the state of South Carolina.

If I apply, am I guaranteed admission?

Unfortunately not. Traditionally, there will be three-to four strong applicants for each space available. Applicants must have completed geometry, algebra I and II, a lab science and English II by the end of their sophomore year. Plus, one year of foreign language is encouraged. PSAT/SAT scores of students attending GSSM typically range from 1000 to 1500. The grade point average (unweighted) generally ranges between 3.5 and 5.4.

How do I apply?

Detailed instructions and criteria for application can be found here in our application packet. The application packet is required reading for applicants and will be immensely useful for parents, students, teachers and counselors alike.

Can I apply online?

Yes! Applying online is faster and easier for you and GSSM. If you would prefer a paper application, you can print a copy, and it must be postmarked by March 1st.

What do I need to do to apply online?

Your application consists of the application form, a recent photo of you, recommendations, test scores, and transcripts. If you have your addresses, phone numbers, activities and awards handy, you're ready to start the online application form.

When can I apply?

All applications must be submitted by March 1st of the applicant's sophomore year.

When will I be notified if I was accepted?

Admissions decisions will be mailed by May 1st.

Can juniors apply to GSSM for their senior year?

No. GSSM is a two-year residential program. Applicants must be sophomores in high school.

How do I know if GSSM is right for me?

Visiting the campus is a great way to make a decision if GSSM is the right fit for you. We offer three different Preview Days each year in November, January, and February. Prospective students and parents will meet faculty, staff and students; take part in a series of informational panels; and participate in student-guided campus tours. If you can't make it to a Preview Day, we also offer individual visits throughout the year. Visiting students can shadow current students, sit in on classes, visit with teachers and eat a meal in the dining hall to get a real sense of what a day is like as a Governor's School student.

How can I get more information about GSSM?

Join our mailing list! That way you can stay informed about the school and the application deadlines.

How will I know if GSSM received my application?

We will send you receipt of your application. We will also inform you if information is missing from your application.

Is there an alternate list for applicants who weren't admitted?

Yes. Due to the size of the housing accommodations, only 128 students can attend the school at a time. An additional group of students is identified for an alternate list. Appointments are extended to students from the alternate list if space becomes available, and the number varies from year to year.

If I do get accepted, when do I need to let GSSM know if I will attend the school?

Acceptance of the invitation must be received by the Governor's School's Office of Admissions in May of your sophomore year.

Do I have to be attend a public school to be considered?

No, but applicants must be legal residents of South Carolina. Every year GSSM receives -- and accepts -- a number of homeschool students and those who attend private schools throughout the state.