Frequently Asked Questions
What is GSSM?
The South Carolina Governor's School for Science and Mathematics is a public, residential high school for academically advanced juniors and seniors. It offers a flexible, enriched and balanced curriculum with a special focus on science and math.
GSSM is ranked among the best academic secondary schools in the nation. The School has been recognized for its overall excellence, strong mix of intellectual challenges and dedicated teachers. Newsweek magazine ranked GSSM a Top 20 "public elite" high school in its May 2006 issue and again in May 2007. In addition, GSSM is one of only a few specialized, residential high schools in the nation.
What sets classes apart?
GSSM offers a full range of classes and labs. The work is challenging and tough, whether a student is taking calculus-based physics or a class in journalism and creative writing. Students are challenged to think creatively and independently, to develop their own ideas, and to express themselves in and out of the classroom.
Is the faculty good?
The faculty is great - one of the best anywhere! All hold master's degrees and many have doctorates. All are committed to the well-being and development of the students. They are enthusiastic about teaching, and they encourage student input and discussion. The average student-teacher ratio of 10 to 1 means that GSSM students receive significant individual attention and take part in meaningful laboratory work.
How else are students challenged?
First, all seniors complete a mentored research project during the summer. Under the guidance of scientists at universities or other research facilities, students have access to the latest equipment and expertise. All students write a formal paper and present their findings at the GSSM Research Colloquium every February. Some students even have their papers published in professional journals and present their papers at professional conferences.
Second, there is the January Interim Semester. For three weeks between the fall and spring semesters every year, students participate in this unique educational experience. Interim gives students the chance to study subjects outside of the regular curriculum. Visiting professors and artists teach some of the courses such as the Science of Scuba Diving, Aquatic Insects, Science of Sports, Wildlife Photography, Euclidean Geometry, Arts in the Interim and more.
Is GSSM expensive?
As a public high school, GSSM does not charge tuition. The school, however, does have a $1,200* fee for each student. Financial aid is available, and no student will be denied admission based on the inability to pay this fee. Except for day-to-day expenses, a refundable damage deposit, and student activity fee, all other costs are covered by the State and by gifts from generous corporations and individuals who contribute money and materials to the GSSM Foundation.
*Amount listed is for the 2008-2009 school year and is subject to change.
What is residence life like?
Clubs, activities and sports are plentiful. Student organizations include Student Council, Chess Club, Yearbook, National Honor Society, Math Team, Youth in Government, Choir and Junior Civitans. Students are encouraged to form and charter new activities they would like GSSM to offer.
Twice a week students are required to take part in an intramural activity such as running, walking, frisbee, soccer, volleyball or swimming. GSSM also has interscholastic athletic teams, which compete in soccer, cross-country, basketball, track and tennis. Some teams are coed.
May I visit the campus?
Students are encouraged to come and see for themselves what GSSM has to offer. Just call the Admissions Office at 843-383-3944 to schedule a visit. Prospective students and their parents may visit almost any day of the week during the school year. In addition, GSSM hosts two Preview Days for tenth-grade students in November and January each school year. Call in advance to make a reservation for these special visitation days.
How do I apply for admission?
Just call or write to the Admissions Office and ask for an application in the fall of your high school sophomore year. An online version (packet.php) is also available. Once a student requests information, the Admissions Office will send out periodic mailings, which will keep students informed of all deadlines and activities pertaining to application.
To complete the application, students need to take the PSAT, SAT or ACT before January of their sophomore year. They will also need to provide an official high school transcript and three recommendations from current teachers. To be eligible to attend GSSM, a student must be a legal resident of the state of South Carolina. Applications are due in February.
