Private nonprofit Institution

Allen University — Columbia, South Carolina

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Annual Tuition $14,304

Estimated Out-of-Pocket

Acceptance 32.1%

Selective

Enrollment 635

Active Students

Avg. Salary $30,497

After 10 Years

Institutional Profile

Location Columbia, South Carolina

Institution type Private nonprofit

Accreditation Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Founded 5/5/1965

Academic Mission & Environment

"Allen University stands as a pillar of higher education in Columbia, providing a robust academic foundation for 635 students. The institution is recognized for its dedication to career-ready outcomes and community impact."

Campus Setting Urban Campus

Student Focus High Employment ROI

What programs does Allen University offer?

Discover the most popular degrees and fields of study at Allen University. These programs represent the institution's primary areas of academic focus and professional preparation.

Business & Marketing

31.3%

Enrollment Share

Biological Sciences

19.3%

Enrollment Share

Parks & Recreation

18.1%

Enrollment Share

Social Sciences

12.1%

Enrollment Share

Visual & Performing Arts

Enrollment Share

Security & Law Enforcement

Enrollment Share

Institutional Choice

Best Business & Marketing College

Positioned as a premier hub for future executives...

Strategic Profile Audited

Institutional Choice

Best Biological Sciences College

The Biological Sciences program at Allen University provides a comprehensive education...

Strategic Profile Audited

Institutional Choice

Best Parks & Recreation College

The Parks & Recreation program at Allen University provides a comprehensive education...

Strategic Profile Audited

Institutional Choice

Best Social Sciences College

The Social Sciences program at Allen University provides a comprehensive education...

Strategic Profile Audited

Institutional Choice

Best Visual & Performing Arts College

The Visual & Performing Arts program at Allen University provides a comprehensive education...

Strategic Profile Audited

Institutional Choice

Best Security & Law Enforcement College

The Security & Law Enforcement program provides a comprehensive education...

Strategic Profile Audited

What is the acceptance rate at Allen University?

Admissions & Selectivity Dashboard — 2026

Acceptance 32.1%

Difficulty Moderate

Allen University maintains an acceptance rate of 32.1%, reflecting its status as a selective institution. The admissions process evaluates academic potential alongside standardized testing trends to ensure a balanced student body.

Test Requirement SAT/ACT scores are neither required nor recommended.

Student Body Composition

Men Enrollment 57%

Women Enrollment 43%

Open Pathway Confirmed

Allen University follows an open admission policy. Standardized test scores (SAT/ACT) are typically not part of the mandatory evaluation process, ensuring broader access to academic programs.

Start Your Journey Today

Unlock access to Allen University's high-demand programs without the stress of standardized testing benchmarks.

Official Admission Portal

How much does Allen University cost in 2026?

In-State Tuition $14,304

Out-of-State Tuition $14,304

Financial Support Snapshot

Pell Grant Rate 79.8%

Median Student Debt $34,290

ROI Insight

With a tuition of only $14,304, graduates see a median starting salary of $30,497, making it one of the most affordable pathways in South Carolina.

What salary can Allen University graduates expect?

Avg. Early Career Salary $30,497

10 years after entry

Graduation Rate 13.2%

Investment Analysis & ROI

Average Net Price $11,081

Median Salary (6yr) $23,889

Earnings-to-Debt Ratio Above Average

Career Stability Index High

What is student life like at Allen University in Columbia?

635 Students

Gender Comparison

57% Men

43% Women

Male Enrollment Female Enrollment

Retention & Enrollment

90%

Retention First-year

Full-time Enrollment

Diversity & Ethnicity

American Indian

0.9%

Black

90.2%

White

0.3%

Unknown

1.1%

Hispanic

3.3%

Two or More Races

2.5%

International

1.6%

Campus Demographics

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Avg. Age at Entry 21

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First-Generation 50.7%

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Receive Pell Grant 92.7%

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Retention (Part-time) 20%

Student Economic Background

Median Household Income	$49,460
Average Family Income	$23,028
Median Family Income	$18,921

Faculty Profile

Faculty Gender

69.4%

30.6%

Women Men

Premium Campus Location

Explore the Columbia Campus Environment

Located at 1530 Harden Street, Allen University offers a strategic urban setting that connects students with the economic and cultural heart of South Carolina. Use our verified map utility to plan your visit or explore nearby professional hubs.

Campus Setting Urban / Metropolitan

Access High Connectivity

Get Directions Open in Google Maps

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How does Allen University compare?

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Direct Comparison Allen University vs Kenneth Shuler School of Cosmetology and Nails-Columbia →

Direct Comparison Allen University vs South Carolina-Columbia →

Common Questions about Allen University

Is Allen University a good college in Columbia, South Carolina?

Allen University is a recognized institution in Columbia with an enrollment of 635 students. It is accredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges and offers a robust ROI for students in South Carolina based on Department of Education data.

Is Allen University worth attending in 2026?

Yes, Allen University offers exceptional value with an average net price of $0 and median graduate earnings of $30,497. The institution's focus on professional outcomes makes it a strong investment for 2026.

How much does Allen University cost for South Carolina residents in 2026?

For the 2026 academic year, in-state tuition at Allen University is approximately $14,304. In addition, out-of-state tuition is $14,304. Financial aid and Pell Grants significantly reduce this cost for most local residents.

What is the real cost of Allen University after financial aid and FAFSA?

The real cost of attending Allen University for most students is its average net price of $0. Approximately 92.7% of students receive Pell Grants and FAFSA-based aid to offset costs.

Is Allen University good for Business & Marketing and Biological Sciences programs?

Allen University is highly regarded for its Business & Marketing and Biological Sciences programs. These tracks are among the most popular, preparing students for immediate career entry.

What career can I get after attending Allen University?

Graduates of Allen University often transition into high-demand roles in fields like Business & Marketing. With a median salary of $30,497, the college provides a clear pathway to professional advancement.

What are the admission requirements for Allen University?

Allen University operates with a Selective policy. This typically includes a simplified application process focused on accessibility and student success regardless of past standardized test scores.

Does Allen University require SAT or ACT scores for admission?

No, Allen University follows a test-optional approach for the 2026 cycle. Standardized test scores like the SAT or ACT are not required for general admission.

What salary can Allen University graduates expect after 10 years?

Graduates of Allen University earn a median salary of $30,497 after 10 years. This demonstrates long-term professional stability and growth.

Is Allen University a good investment compared to other SC colleges?

Allen University stands out as a high-value investment in South Carolina. With an average net price of only $0, it offers one of the most affordable pathways to a degree and a professional career in the state.

Where is Allen University located and what is the campus like?

Allen University is located at 1530 Harden Street in Columbia, SC. The campus provides a dynamic environment serving a diverse student body of 635 learners.

Who typically attends Allen University in Columbia, SC?

The student body at Allen University is diverse and career-focused. Approximately 50.7% are first-generation students, reflecting a community of motivated, real-world learners.

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2026 Rankings: South Carolina

Explore top-tier academic pathways across the state

Compare Allen University with other leading institutions in South Carolina across various professional disciplines. Our verified data audits provide transparency on career ROI and academic quality.

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