A Guide to the USC Admissions Process – Decision Dates, Admission Deadlines, Essays, Interviews, Acceptance Rates, and More
With a 12% acceptance rate, gaining admission to USC is highly competitive. Whether you’re an aspiring filmmaker, engineer, or dancer, USC offers the flexibility to pursue cross-disciplinary interests—but earning a spot isn’t easy.
Located in downtown Los Angeles, USC is the city’s largest employer and a major driver of economic growth. Despite its proximity to UCLA, USC is a private university with its own admissions process, requiring the Common Application. As a large research institution, USC offers a wide range of majors, including specialized undergraduate schools in music, business, engineering, film, dance, and design.
USC values students who cross boundaries between disciplines. They’re looking for applicants who connect ideas in unexpected ways, show curiosity beyond required coursework, and pursue learning that reflects both breadth and depth. Whether it’s combining art and tech or business and policy, USC appreciates academic range with intention.
The admissions team looks for students who create their own opportunities. USC is drawn to applicants who take risks, think independently, and bring ideas to life—whether that’s through a project, leadership role, or unconventional path. What matters is that you’ve made something happen and stayed committed to it.
USC students are collaborative, driven, and unafraid to stand out. Strong applicants show how they’ll actively participate in the USC community and how their personality, perspective, and values align with the energy of campus life. Admissions wants to see that you’ll bring something meaningful—and make the most of everything USC offers.
3.87
1450-1550
32-35
USC’s deadlines vary slightly each year. For the 2024-25 cycle, here’s what to keep in mind:
USC is test-optional for students applying for fall 2025 admission. However, a strong test score can boost your application.
For the class of 2027, the middle 50% of admitted students scored 1450-1530 on the SAT and 32-35 on the ACT. If your scores fall within or above this range, submitting them could strengthen your application. USC also superscores both the SAT and ACT, considering only your highest section scores across multiple test dates.
USC requires one letter of recommendation from either your school counselor or a teacher who can speak to your academic abilities and character.
However, applicants to the School of Cinematic Arts must submit two letters, ideally from individuals who can highlight their creative talents and potential in the field. While additional letters are not required for most programs, submitting an extra recommendation may add value if it provides unique insights into your strengths.
USC takes a holistic approach, looking beyond academics to how you’ve spent your time outside the classroom. Since many majors are highly specific, like “American Popular Culture,” your activities should reflect a real interest in your chosen field.
To stand out, go beyond typical clubs. If you’re applying to Film & Television Production and have created a full-length documentary, that shows clear drive and alignment with your goals.
| Less Competitive Applicant | Competitive Applicant | |
|---|---|---|
| Student Government | Member, no leadership | VP, launched a sustainability project |
| Debate Club | Local competitions, no major achievements | State finalist, mentored younger members |
| Community Service | Occasional volunteering, no sustained impact | Founded a STEM tutoring program |
| Soccer Team | JV player, no leadership | Varsity captain, organized a fundraiser |
| Part-Time Job | Worked weekends, no advancement | Shift leader, managed employee schedules |
| Why It Falls ShortLacks leadership, initiative, and long-term commitment. | Why It Stands OutDemonstrates leadership, initiative, and tangible impact. |
USC’s supplemental section includes a 250-word academic interest essay and a rapid-fire series of short answers. On the surface, the prompts seem simple—but they’re designed to test clarity, voice, and alignment with USC’s values. The academic essay isn’t just about what you want to study. It’s your chance to show how your intellectual interests have evolved, and how you’ll explore them through USC’s unique programs, such as the Thematic Option or the Renaissance Scholars distinction.
The short-answer section is where admissions officers look for personality, not polish. These responses help them imagine how you’ll show up in classrooms, dorms, and clubs. Strong applicants treat this section like a snapshot of who they are at their most curious, bold, and reflective. This is where humor, originality, and specificity can go a long way—especially at a school that values individuality as much as USC does.
USC is all about community and leadership. Showcase your ability to contribute to the USC “Trojan Family” through leadership roles, team involvement, or unique initiatives that highlight your collaborative spirit and drive.
USC stands out for its interdisciplinary approach, especially in fields like cinematic arts, business, and engineering. Tailor your application to emphasize how USC’s specific programs and resources align with your academic and career goals.
USC is ideal if you’re passionate about blending creativity with cutting-edge technology, especially in fields like film, gaming, and media. If you’re looking for a school where you can get hands-on experience with industry leaders and gain direct access to Hollywood, USC’s connections will put you at the forefront. It’s also a great fit if you’re looking for a dynamic campus with a strong sense of tradition and a network of motivated, entrepreneurial students. If you thrive in an environment that blends innovation and legacy, USC may be your perfect match.
USC is ideal if you’re passionate about blending creativity with cutting-edge technology, especially in fields like film, gaming, and media. If you’re looking for a school where you can get hands-on experience with industry leaders and gain direct access to Hollywood, USC’s connections will put you at the forefront.
It’s also a great fit if you’re looking for a dynamic campus with a strong sense of tradition and a network of motivated, entrepreneurial students. If you thrive in an environment that blends innovation and legacy, USC may be your perfect match.
College Admissions Counseling Results: USC
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As of the 2024-2025 academic year, USC enrolls approximately 47,000 students, with about 21,000 undergraduates and 26,000 graduate and professional students.
USC uses holistic review, considering academic performance, extracurricular impact, leadership, and personal insight. Strong applicants demonstrate a clear fit for USC’s interdisciplinary approach and commitment to innovation.
Yes, students can apply as “Undecided” within the Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences. However, applying undeclared to highly competitive programs (e.g., Business, Engineering, Cinematic Arts) may make it harder to transfer into those majors later.
No, USC does not require interviews for most applicants. However, some programs (e.g., School of Cinematic Arts, Thornton School of Music, Kaufman School of Dance) may require interviews, auditions, or portfolios as part of the admissions process.
Yes, USC allows applicants to list a first-choice and second-choice major. However, some highly competitive programs may not allow alternate major consideration. If applying to a specialized program, ensure your application strongly supports your first-choice major.
