What does USC care about most?

The most fundamental expectation of each entering student at USC is that she or he will have completed a rigorous high school curriculum in English, mathematics, science, social studies, foreign language and the arts. We realize, of course, that individual talents, circumstances and opportunities vary greatly.

What values does USC look for in applicants?

We will review your performance in school, the rigor of your program, your writing skills and any test scores you choose to submit. We also consider personal qualities, as revealed in community involvement, leadership and achievements.

What does USC value in students?

As Trojans, we will:

Act with integrity in the pursuit of excellence. Embrace diversity, equity, and inclusion, and promote well-being. Engage in open communication and be accountable for living our values.

What is USC mainly known for?

USC is famous for its football program and tremendous school spirit, tight-knit alumni network, world class educational and lab facilities, and top-ranked Cinematic Arts college.

Does USC care about class rank?

The University of Southern California does not calculate or support a class rank for its undergraduate students.

Everything You NEED to Know Before Going To USC

What type of students does USC look for?

The most fundamental expectation of each entering student at USC is that she or he will have completed a rigorous high school curriculum in English, mathematics, science, social studies, foreign language and the arts. We realize, of course, that individual talents, circumstances and opportunities vary greatly.

What grades does USC look at?

Generally, for the purposes of admission into USC, we first review an applicant's coursework from grades 9 - 11. Applicants are also expected to submit grades from the fall term of their senior year as soon as they are available by using the Mid-Year Report Form included in the Common Application.

Is USC really hard to get into?

For every 100 applicants, only 13 are admitted. This means the school is extremely selective. Meeting their GPA requirements and SAT/ACT requirements is very important to getting past their first round of filters and proving your academic preparation.

Is USC very expensive?

USC holds a reputation as an expensive school of pervasive wealth. It is the sixth most expensive college in the United States, ranking first in the same category among California colleges. Ivy League universities, which compete with USC to attract the nation's top applicants, also feature in that top 20.

What is the most competitive major at USC?

For highly competitive majors, such as Journalism or Cinematic Arts Film and Television Production, and for majors with strict admission requirements, such as Business Administration or Communication, it is a good idea to have a “back up” plan (an alternate major choice) in case you do not get admitted to these more ...

What does USC look for in essays?

USC states on their website that they look for “a diverse group of students who represent a vast array of perspectives and passions, who will enrich each other's education by challenging each other, inside the classroom and out.” They expect your essay and short answer responses to help them “get to know your ...

Does Olivia Rodrigo go to USC?

The revelation struck a chord with Rodrigo, who had just started uni at USC and had been tasked with flexing her poetry muscles. “One of the poems I wrote was called 'Lacy,'” Rodrigo recalled during the event, and, poof, just like magic, the roadblock was gone.

Does USC care about SAT?

USC's Test Optional Policy

Applicants will not be penalized or put at a disadvantage if they choose not to submit SAT or ACT scores. USC's admission process has always been holistic, and we are confident in our ability to identify student potential using the totality of what's presented to us.

How can I increase my chances of getting into USC?

In addition to strong numbers (i.e., test scores and grades/GPA), USC wishes to admit applicants with strong "personal qualities." These qualities can be illuminated through either academic or non-academic accomplishments, community service/volunteer efforts, or leadership experiences (for example, maybe you're the ...

Does USC care about legacy?

USC is one of the few universities in California that continue to give special consideration to children of alumni, known as legacy preferences.

Does USC care about diversity?

At USC, we embrace the inclusive spirit and foster a community of diverse viewpoints to build a generation of innovators, leaders, visionaries, and creators.

Does USC have rich students?

It's not uncommon to see Van Cleef bracelets on wrists and Goyard tote bags as book bags — wealth is almost expected within the University bubble. While the University has a solid academic standing, some students effortlessly blend luxury brands into their educational spaces, bringing their status into lectures.

Is USC an elite school?

Stanford has a strong reputation for research and innovation, consistently ranking among the best universities in the world. USC is the larger of the two schools, enrolling about 40,000 students each year. As elite private institutions in California, USC and Stanford come with serious price tags.

Is USC a big deal?

USC is more than just a Cinematic Arts School, a research institution, or a center for innovation. The school is well balanced like its students. USC excels in all aspects from sports to community involvement to international relations and of course academics.

Does USC care about demonstrated interest?

Does USC track demonstrated interest? No. Applicant interest is not considered in the University of Southern California evaluation process. You should still engage with USC to make sure it's a good fit and to gather information for your supplemental essays, but don't worry about interacting to look good.

Can you get into USC with bad grades?

While it's possible to get into USC or the UCs with lower grades, it's more challenging due to high competition. They consider grades, test scores, activities, and personal statements.

Is USC a stressful school?

As is the case at many high-ranking universities, students at USC feel pressure to maintain top grades. In fact, in 2010, USC was ranked the 18th most stressful college in the country by the Daily Beast.

Does USC accept A levels?

USC awards 8 semester units of elective credit for A-level exams, as well as H2 exams from Singapore, with a score of B or better. (Exams taken before spring 2011 with a score of C also earn credit.)

Does USC want mid year grades?

These grades can show how applicants handle some of the most challenging courses of their high school career, and they can further illustrate emerging trends in overall performance. We send many requests for mid-year reports in January and February to applicants from whom we would like to see additional information.

Does USC inflate grades?

A recent study found that grade inflation occurs more at private colleges and universities than at their public counterparts, but officials say grade inflation is not a problem at USC.