Newberry College Offers Support to Limestone University Community

Newberry, South Carolina — In response to the recent announcement of Limestone University’s permanent closure, Newberry College is reaching out to support the affected community, which includes approximately 1,600 students, faculty, and staff. The transitional president of Newberry College highlighted the school’s commitment to community, compassion, and continuity as they assist Limestone students in securing their educational futures.

Newberry College is offering several measures to facilitate the transition for Limestone students. This support includes guaranteed transfer credit for all completed coursework from Limestone, provided they meet the necessary GPA and class passing requirements. Additionally, Newberry College will waive enrollment fees for these transferring students, easing their financial burden during this difficult period.

To further assist students, Newberry College is implementing an accelerated admissions process that will streamline the transition, ensuring that students can quickly secure their places in ongoing academic programs. The college will also match any institutional aid that Limestone students previously received, helping cover tuition costs and other expenses associated with their education.

Students who choose to remain off-campus will automatically receive commuter status at Newberry College. Furthermore, the institution is honoring tuition remission benefits for Limestone University employees and eligible dependents, ensuring a smoother transition for these individuals as well. For the upcoming academic year of 2025–2026, Newberry College will provide comparable access to its tuition remission program for those who were benefitting from Limestone’s plans.

To showcase its graduate and online programs, Newberry College will host a virtual open house on May 5 at 6 p.m. This event offers prospective students a chance to learn more about the options available to them as they consider transferring.

Several other colleges in South Carolina are also stepping up to support Limestone students. Coker University has announced guaranteed acceptance for students who are in good standing at Limestone, promising full credit transfer and a housing grant for those who qualify. Meanwhile, Erskine College is offering a scholarship worth $25,000 for each year for Limestone students who enroll, thereby helping alleviate financial pressures those students may face.

Other institutions such as Columbia College, Young Harris College, and Southern Wesleyan University are also outlining their respective support options, further expanding the opportunities available to displaced Limestone students.

The closure of Limestone University was prompted by significant financial difficulties, marked by a $30 million debt. The institution was given a two-week ultimatum to raise $6 million to remain operational but managed to secure only $2.1 million in that timeframe. Founded in 1845, Limestone University has been a vital economic contributor to the local community, making its closure a significant loss.

The final commencement ceremony for Limestone University is scheduled for May 3, marking the end of an era for the institution and its students. As the impacted community navigates this transition, colleges across the region are coming together to provide much-needed support during this challenging time.