South Carolina
SCConrad State 30 J-1 waiver program overview, slot data, processing times, and application guidance for South Carolina.
Application Window
Slot reservation begins JULY 1 (earliest of any state) for next fiscal year. First-come-first-served. Must reserve slot before submitting full application. Contact [email protected].
Timeline Overview
Specialty Priorities
Priority Areas
Requirements
Must practice in a HPSA or MUA for 3 years. SC DHEC sponsors applications. South Carolina fills all 30 Conrad slots annually (FY 2024). Major advantage: SC is eligible for BOTH ARC (Appalachian upstate counties) AND SCRC waivers — giving effectively three waiver pathways with unlimited additional capacity. Full unrestricted SC medical license required.
Application Tips
South Carolina fills all 30 Conrad slots every year, but you have excellent alternatives. Upstate SC (Anderson, Pickens, Oconee, Cherokee) qualifies for ARC waivers (unlimited, no fee). Much of SC is covered by SCRC waivers (unlimited, $3,000 fee). This means SC effectively has more waiver capacity than most states despite filling Conrad. Pee Dee region (Florence, Marion, Darlington) and Lowcountry rural areas have highest HPSA scores. MUSC (Charleston) and USC (Columbia) residency connections help with networking. No state income tax on first $3,460 (graduated 0-6.4%). Moderate cost of living.
Official Resource
South Carolina Health DepartmentWaiver Jobs in South Carolina
Browse J-1 waiver positions currently available in South Carolina.
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