What We Look For

We look for those students we believe will thrive at USC. Our application process is designed to highlight your individual story, so that we might see how you would take advantage of the many opportunities available at USC.

Like many highly selective universities, we conduct a comprehensive, holistic review of your application to consider academic and personal characteristics. We will review your academic performance and the rigor of your program within the context of your school, your essays and any test scores, you choose to submit. We also consider personal qualities, as revealed by your school and/or community involvement, leadership and other achievements.

We strive to enroll 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.

We pay close attention to your personal narrative, background and circumstances, realizing that each student is unique and has something to offer. Many components of your application—from your activities list to your essay to your USC academic short answer—will paint a picture of you and how you might contribute to the community, tradition and spirit that make USC the dynamic place it is.

Your teacher or counselor recommendation letter reflects your values and personal characteristics. It speaks to your academic success and the contributions you might make to the classroom, your school’s broader learning environment and your community at large.

Successful USC Students

USC students pursue ambitious intellectual and professional goals by studying across disciplines and taking advantage of the diversity of programs available. They are willing to venture outside their comfort zones. They are interested in the world, in other peoples and cultures, and enjoy examining important issues from a global perspective. They get involved by participating in student organizations and connecting with others. They seek to grow to their fullest potential, and they work to serve others in the community along the way.

Your High School Record

Incoming first-year students demonstrate superior academic performance — and the potential to do more. Most admitted students are ranked in the top 10 percent of their graduating class, and their median standardized test score, if submitted, is in the top 5 percent of all test-takers.

Students are expected to have earned a grade of C or better in at least three years of high school mathematics, including Advanced Algebra (Algebra II). Outside of mathematics, no specific curriculum is prescribed or required, though students offered admission typically pursue the most rigorous program available to them in English, science, social studies, foreign language and the arts. Careful attention is paid to preparation for the intended major.

The review is not formulaic — we try to envision your performance at the next level.

We are also looking for your potential to make an impact: willingness to go beyond the requirements, to dig deeply into texts, to explore ideas and become a lifelong learner.

Ultimately, we look for students who will become enthusiastic partners in learning and research.

USC is need-blind in its admission process for domestic students. In other words, that student’s financial need will not influence their admission decision. In fact, nearly two-thirds of undergraduate students at USC receive financial aid.

Fall 2024

Application Process

Race, Ethnicity & Background

Most Represented Geographic Areas in U.S.

California
New York
Illinois
Texas
Washington
Florida
New Jersey

Most Represented Geographic Areas Outside U.S.

China
India
South Korea
Canada
Singapore
Hong Kong
United Kingdom

Financial Aid

About 18% of the 2024 entering first-year class received a merit-based scholarship from USC. Approximately two-thirds received some form of financial assistance.

Download the First-Year Student Profile

Fall 2024

Our Transfer Students Come From

Download the Transfer Student Profile