Prospective Students

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Now more than 500,000 strong, the Trojan Family is where you will find peers who share your passions and goals, and who will be there for you, lifelong and worldwide.

FIND YOUR PEOPLE
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Learn more about what we look for in prospective students, how you might fit in, and how you might contribute to our academic and campus life.

SEE IF USC IS A GOOD FIT
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Think a USC education might be out of reach? Visit our Financial Aid Calculators to estimate how much aid you may be eligible for and what your actual cost may be.

CALCULATE YOUR COSTS
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Attend an admission information session or an academic department session to learn more our admission process, our academic programs, and get key insights from admission our staff.

JOIN AN INFORMATION SESSION

Live, Learn, Belong

USC will be your home away from home for the next few years. We think you will discover it’s easy to find your niche, both on campus and in the city of Los Angeles. 

Build Your Future
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How to Apply

From deadlines and application materials, to what USC looks for in potential applicants, here is all the information you will need to present a successful application. 

Learn more
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Financial Aid and Scholarships

Nearly two-thirds of USC students receive some type of financial aid. Many others are the recipients of our Merit Scholarships. A world-class education at USC may be more affordable than you think. 

Learn more
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Meet Us

What better way to see if USC is right for you than by visiting our beautiful University Park Campus! Reserve your space for a guided tour, an admission presentation or an academic department information session. 

Learn more
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How to Apply

Explore these pages to learn more about what it takes to be a successful applicant to USC.

What We Look For

We look for students we believe will thrive in our world-class academic environment. Our review process is holistic, taking into consideration more than just grades and test scores. We also look at your personal qualities, leadership potential, and your ability to become a partner in learning and research. The Common App opens August 1.

First-Year Students

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 classes. First-year students can apply Early Action, Early Decision, or Regular Decision.

Transfer Students

USC accepts sophomore and junior transfer students from across California, the U.S., and around the world. Successful transfer students have demonstrated their potential to succeed in our dynamic academic programs.

International Students

USC accepts international students from around the globe and hosts one of the most vibrant student populations in the U.S. You are considered an international student if you will enter or have entered the United States with a non-immigrant visa that allows you to live and study in the country.
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Learn more about USC

There are many ways to find out more about your opportunities at USC. Stay up-to-date with our application and admission process, as well as campus news and events.

Resources for Parents and Families
Learn more about how to support your student through the application process and how to ease the transition to college life.
For School Counselors
Stay up-to-date with USC by signing up for our special counselor events and/or by joining our mailing list.
For Admission Counselors
Volunteers are important to the success of USC Admission! Find our how to support USC admission staff at on- or off-campus college fairs and other events.