How to Get into USC: Admission Requirements and Tips

Considering the University of Southern California (USC)? That would be a solid move! If you’re exploring how to get into USC, it helps to know what makes the school such a top pick: sought-after programs like its business school and the School of Cinematic Arts, an incredible faculty, a sprawling campus, and strong connections in industries like tech and entertainment.

But getting in isn’t simple. With an acceptance rate of just 9.8% for the Class of 2028, the competition is stiff. The admissions team wants people who are engaged, passionate, and ready to contribute to the USC community in meaningful ways. It’s about showing who you are, not just what you’ve accomplished.

But don’t panic! We’re here to help. In this guide, we’ll break down exactly how to get into USC: everything from the ideal GPA and SAT/ACT scores to how to stand out in your personal statement and make a real impact with your extracurriculars. Let’s get started and make sure your application is as strong as possible!

• How Hard Is It to Get into USC?
• USC Admission Requirements
• USC GPA Requirements
• USC SAT Scores
• USC ACT Scores
• How to Increase Your Chances of Getting into USC
• USC Application Deadlines
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Takeaways

How Hard Is It to Get into USC?

For the Class of 2028, USC received a whopping 82,027 applications and admitted just 8,050 students, which means the acceptance rate is only 9.8%. Getting in is tough, with tons of students from all over the world hoping for a spot at this amazing school.

Wondering how USC’s acceptance rate has been changing over the years? Check this out:

As you can see, USC’s acceptance rate has dropped quite a bit over the past few years. From 16.1% for the Class of 2024, it’s now down to just 9.8% for the Class of 2028—meaning it’s gotten 6.3% harder to get in.

With more students applying each year, the competition keeps getting tougher. If you’re trying to figure out how to get into USC, make sure your application really stands out to have a shot at joining the Trojan family.

USC Admission Requirements

USC looks for well-rounded students who are academically strong, curious, and passionate about making an impact. The admissions team takes a holistic approach, considering more than just your grades.

Here’s what you need to know about the application requirements:

• High school transcript. USC wants to see that you’ve taken challenging courses in high school. Most successful applicants have taken honors, AP, or IB classes.
• Recommendation letters. You’ll need one letter from your school counselor or a teacher who knows you well. Choose someone who can speak to your academic abilities, work ethic, and character.
• Personal statement. USC accepts applications through the Common App, so you’ll need to submit a personal statement. This is your chance to tell USC about who you are and why you’d be a great fit.
• Supplemental essays. USC requires supplemental essays, which are specific to the school. This is your opportunity to go deeper into your academic interests and show how you align with USC’s values.
• Standardized test scores. USC is test-optional, so you can choose whether or not to submit your SAT or ACT scores. If your scores are strong, including them can help strengthen your application.
• Mid-year and final transcripts. USC will want to see your mid-year grades and final transcript to confirm that you’ve kept up strong academic performance throughout senior year.
• Extracurricular activities. USC looks for students who are actively involved in their communities. Whether it’s through school clubs, sports, volunteering, or internships, they want to see you making an impact outside of the classroom.
• Portfolio (if required by major). If you’re applying to a major that requires a portfolio, like those in the School of Cinematic Arts or the College of Architecture, make sure to submit one.

If you’re thinking about how to get into USC, it’s important to know that the admissions team focuses on a few key factors. The most important are your high school coursework, GPA, recommendation letters, and application essays. These are the things that give them the best picture of your academic strengths and how you might fit in at USC.

But it’s not all about academics. USC also values extracurriculars, talents, character, and personal qualities. They want students who are well-rounded, involved in their communities, and passionate about what they do. So, whether you’re leading a club, volunteering, or pursuing a unique talent, these things help you stand out.

While work experience, volunteer work, alumni connections, and being a first-generation college student are considered, they don’t play as big a role in the decision-making process. These factors are nice to have, but they aren’t as important as your academic achievements.

On the flip side, things like geographical residence, state residency, religious affiliation, or demonstrated interest don’t affect your chances at all, so there’s no need to worry about those.

At the end of the day, if you’re wondering how to get into USC, remember that the university is looking for students who are academically motivated, curious about the world, and excited to contribute to the campus. A strong application will show off not just your grades, but what makes you unique and how you’ll bring something special to the Trojan community.

High school coursework recommendations

When you’re applying to USC, the admissions team will take a close look at your high school transcript. They want to see that you’ve challenged yourself academically, so it’s important to take a mix of courses that will set you up for success. While USC doesn’t have strict course requirements, most students who get in have taken a well-rounded set of classes.

Here’s a guide to what USC recommends:

• 4 units of English
• 3-4 units of Mathematics
• 2-3 units of Science (including 2-3 units of lab science)
• 2-3 units of Foreign Language
• 2-3 units of Social Studies
• 3 units of academic electives

This comes out to at least 16 academic units, though if you can take even more advanced courses or push yourself with AP or honors classes, that will only strengthen your application. The key is to challenge yourself and take the hardest classes you can handle.

USC GPA Requirements

If you’re trying to figure out how to get into USC, know that while there’s no hard and fast GPA cutoff, you’ll still need a solid academic record to stand out. To be competitive in the admissions pool, it’s important to aim for a strong GPA that reflects your hard work in high school.

USC average GPA

According to USC’s Common Data Set for 2023-2024, the average GPA of admitted students is 3.86. Here’s a breakdown of GPA distribution among enrolled students:

• 31% had a GPA of 4.0
• 49.2% had a GPA between 3.75 and 3.99
• 14.4% had a GPA between 3.50 and 3.74
• 3.4% had a GPA between 3.25 and 3.49
• 1.3% had a GPA between 3.00 and 3.24
• 0.5% had a GPA between 2.50 and 2.99
• 0.2% had a GPA between 2.00 and 2.49

For students who reported class rank, USC admits were typically among the top of their high school classes:

• 67.2% ranked in the top 10%
• 91.1% ranked in the top 25%
• 98.2% ranked in the top 50%

This shows that USC really focuses on students who have a track record of doing well academically. But keep in mind, GPA is just one part of the puzzle. They also care about your extracurriculars, leadership roles, recommendation letters, and essays.

If you’re thinking about how to get into USC and your GPA isn’t quite where you want it to be, don’t worry too much. USC is more interested in your overall potential as a student. So, focus on making your application as strong as possible in other areas to boost your chances.

USC SAT Scores

USC is test-optional, so you don’t have to submit SAT scores if you don’t want to. However, if you do decide to submit them, your scores should be solid to stay competitive. A high SAT score can help show academic readiness and may give your application a leg up.

USC average SAT

According to USC’s latest Common Data Set, here are the typical SAT scores for admitted students:

Here’s a breakdown of section scores:

Most admitted students score pretty high on the SAT. In fact, 88% of students had composite scores between 1400 and 1600, with only 10.23% scoring between 1200 and 1399.

Looking at section scores:

• 80.94% of students scored between 700 and 800 in SAT EBRW.
• 88.82% of students scored between 700 and 800 in SAT Math.

To stay competitive, aim for a 1530 or higher, with strong scores in both Math and EBRW. A score in this range shows that you’re well-prepared for USC’s rigorous academics.

That said, if your scores aren’t perfect, don’t worry! If you’re exploring how to get into USC, keep in mind that the university takes a holistic approach: your coursework, extracurriculars, essays, and recommendation letters all matter. If your SAT scores are close but not quite where they need to be, consider retaking the test to improve your chances.

Does USC require the SAT?

Not at all! USC is test-optional, which means you can decide whether or not to submit your SAT scores. If you’re proud of your scores and feel they reflect your abilities, go ahead and send them in. But if your scores aren’t where you want them to be, don’t stress. Leaving them out won’t hurt your chances.

What USC really cares about is the bigger picture. They take a holistic approach to admissions, which means they’re looking at more than just your SAT scores. Your high school courses, extracurricular activities, essays, and letters of recommendation all play a role in your application. USC wants to understand who you are beyond the numbers and see how you’ll bring something unique to their campus.

USC ACT Scores

If you’re wondering how to get into USC, it’s helpful to know that the university doesn’t require the ACT, so it’s entirely up to you whether or not to submit your scores. If you have a great score, feel free to send it in as it can give your application a boost. But if the score doesn’t quite reflect your abilities, skipping it won’t hurt your chances.

USC average ACT

Here is a look at the ACT scores for admitted students, based on USC’s latest Common Data Set:

As for the subject breakdown:

Most admitted students scored between 30 and 36 on the ACT. In fact, 94.33% of students had a composite score between 30 and 36, with only 5.26% scoring between 24 and 29.

Looking at section scores:

• 94.33% of students scored between 30 and 36 in ACT English.
• 78.74% of students scored between 30 and 36 in ACT Math.
• 93.32% of students scored between 30 and 36 in ACT Reading.
• 87.45% of students scored between 30 and 36 in ACT Science.

If you want to be in the most competitive range, aim for a 35 or higher. However, if your score isn’t quite there, don’t stress too much. USC evaluates applications holistically, so your coursework, extracurriculars, essays, and recommendations all matter. If standardized testing isn’t your strongest area, you can still stand out in other ways.

Does USC prefer the ACT or SAT?

USC doesn’t have a preference for either the ACT or SAT. You’re welcome to choose which test to submit, or if you’d rather not send scores at all, that’s completely fine since USC is test-optional.

Among first-year applicants, 32% submitted SAT scores, while 14% submitted ACT scores. This shows that many students either decided not to submit test scores or focused on other parts of their application to demonstrate their strengths.

The great news? USC superscores both tests. This means that if you’ve taken the SAT or ACT more than once, they’ll take your highest section scores from each test date and combine them to give you the best possible composite score. So, if you decide to submit your scores, make sure to send your best ones.

How to Increase Your Chances of Getting into USC

Figuring out how to get into USC can feel overwhelming, but there’s no need to stress. A strong application can make a huge difference. Let’s break down the key things that really matter:

1. Keep your GPA strong.

Your GPA is one of the most important factors in USC’s admissions process. To stay competitive, aim for an average GPA or higher, which typically hovers around 3.86 for admitted students. If you’re aiming for the most competitive range, aim for a 3.86 or higher.

Taking challenging courses like AP, honors, or dual-enrollment classes will show USC that you’re ready for the tough academics at the university.

If you’ve had some rough patches in your grades, don’t worry too much. USC loves seeing improvement. If you’ve worked hard to raise your grades in certain subjects, be sure to mention it in your application—it can show resilience and growth.

If you’re struggling with a class, consider getting extra help: ask for tutoring, join a study group, or talk to your teacher for some advice. Taking initiative to improve academically can really make a difference in your application.

2. Submit SAT/ACT scores if they work in your favor.

Since USC is test-optional, you get to decide whether or not to submit your SAT or ACT scores. If your scores are on the higher side, submitting them could definitely give your application an extra boost.

For reference, the middle 50% of admitted students had SAT scores between 1450 and 1530, and ACT scores between 30 and 34.

To be competitive, aim for a score in the 75th percentile or higher—aim for 1530+ on the SAT or 35+ on the ACT. If your scores fall below the 50th percentile, it may be better to focus on other aspects of your application that show your strengths.

Not happy with your scores? No problem. You can always retake the test, use practice exams, or even consider private tutoring to boost your performance.

USC superscores both the SAT and ACT, so they’ll take your highest section scores from multiple test dates and combine them for the best possible composite score.

That being said, if testing just isn’t your thing, don’t worry. USC looks at applications holistically, so your GPA, extracurriculars, essays, and recommendation letters all carry significant weight. You can absolutely shine in other areas of your application.

3. Let your essay bring your story to life.

If you’re learning how to get into USC, know that you’ll need to submit a personal statement by choosing a prompt from the Common Application. Along with your personal statement, USC requires you to answer a school-specific question.

Here’s the general USC supplemental essay prompt that every applicant must respond to:

• Describe how you plan to pursue your academic interests and why you want to explore them at USC specifically. Please feel free to address your first- and second-choice major selections (250 words).

All applicants should also write short responses to these prompts:

• Describe yourself in three words (25 characters each)
• What is your favorite snack? (100 characters)
• Best movie of all time (100 characters)
• Dream job (100 characters)
• If your life had a theme song, what would it be? (100 characters)
• Dream trip (100 characters)
• What TV show will you binge watch next? (100 characters)
• Which well-known person or fictional character would be your ideal roommate? (100 characters)
• Favorite book (100 characters)
• If you could teach a class on any topic, what would it be? (100 characters)

Tips for writing a strong USC essay:

• Be yourself. USC wants to know the real you, so make sure your personality shows through. The short prompts are a great way to show your quirks, passions, and humor. Don’t overthink it; just be authentic.
• Stay focused. For the main essay (250 words), focus on what excites you about studying at USC. Keep it clear and concise. Don’t try to cover too many things. Dig into one area you’re genuinely passionate about.
• Show your fit with USC. When answering the main essay prompt, explain why USC is the place where you’ll thrive academically. Tailor your answer to show how their specific programs align with your academic goals.
• Have fun with the short responses. These are quick but fun! Don’t be afraid to let your personality shine here, but remember to stick within the character limits.
• Write in your voice. The personal statement should sound like you. It’s your chance to tell USC what makes you unique, so skip the formal tone and just be yourself.
• Edit, edit, edit. After you write, take the time to revise your essay. Ask for feedback from a teacher or mentor and refine your work to make sure it’s clear and free from any awkward phrases or grammar mistakes.

For applicants to some majors, there may be additional, specific prompts to address. Make sure to check those out if they apply to your chosen major.

The key here is to make sure your responses highlight what makes you a unique individual and how you’re a great fit for USC. Show them who you are beyond the grades and scores.

Need more help with the USC supplemental essays and your personal statement? Check out our go-to guide on USC’s essays!

4. Make your extracurriculars stand out.

USC wants to see more than just a list of clubs or activities. They’re looking for students who’ve really made an impact. Whether you’ve stepped up as a leader, helped your community, or followed your passions, they want to know what you’ve done and how it shaped you.

Here’s how you can make your extracurriculars stand out:

• Leadership and student government roles. If you’ve led a club, been a class officer, or started something new at school, share how you made a difference. Maybe you helped organize events, advocated for a cause, or started something that improved student life. If you’ve been involved in programs like the Brown Leadership Institute or Harvard Summer School’s Secondary School Program (SSP), it’s a great way to show your leadership skills.
• Community involvement and social impact. Have you volunteered at a shelter, organized fundraisers, or worked with local charities? USC loves to see how you’re giving back. Whether you’re working with groups like Habitat for Humanity or organizing local events through VolunTEEN Nation, showing how you’ve helped others can be a big plus.
• STEM and research activities. If you’ve got a passion for science, tech, or engineering, USC will be excited to hear about it. Whether you’ve worked on a research project, joined the Google Science Fair, or participated in FIRST Robotics, these activities show your commitment to learning and innovation.
• Creative arts and performing arts. Whether you’re into music, dance, theater, or visual arts, USC wants to know how you’ve developed your talents. Maybe you’ve performed in school plays, showcased your artwork in local exhibitions, or competed in events like the FAA High School Competition. If you’ve pursued programs like the National YoungArts Foundation, even better!
• Entrepreneurship and innovation. If you’ve started your own business, launched a nonprofit, or come up with your own creative projects, share those experiences. Show how you’re building something from the ground up. Programs like Economics for Leaders (EFL) or running your own online tutoring service can highlight your entrepreneurial spirit.
• Athletics and sports teams. Whether you play a varsity sport or a recreational league, USC cares about how sports have shaped you. Were you a team captain? Did you push through an injury or improve your performance in some way? Programs like US Youth Soccer ODP or Nike EYBL Basketball can add some serious value to your application.
• Cultural and diversity programs. If you’ve been involved in cultural clubs, or worked to make your community more inclusive, USC will appreciate how you’ve promoted diversity. Whether it’s helping run cultural heritage clubs or participating in the National Diversity Council, these activities show your commitment to making a positive impact.

If you’re thinking about how to get into USC, remember that they don’t want to see just a list of activities. They’re looking for what you’ve accomplished, how you’ve made a difference, and what you’ve learned along the way. Don’t just name your extracurriculars—show USC the person you’ve become through them.

5. Secure strong recommendation letters.

USC requires one letter of recommendation, either from your school counselor or a teacher you’ve worked closely with. These letters help give the admissions team a better sense of who you are beyond just your grades and test scores. They highlight your character, your leadership potential, and your contributions to your school community.

Tips for strong recommendation letters:

• Choose someone who knows you well. Pick a teacher or counselor who can speak to your growth, your strengths, and your character. It’s better to have someone who has worked with you closely, rather than someone who may only know you from a large class.
• Keep in touch with your counselor. Even if your school is big, try to make sure your counselor knows who you are. Talk about your interests, any obstacles you’ve overcome, and what motivates you. The more they know, the better they can highlight your strengths in the letter.
• Ask early. Teachers and counselors often have a lot of requests to handle, so be sure to ask at least a month ahead of your deadline. This gives them enough time to write a thoughtful letter that truly represents you.
• Give them all the details. Share your accomplishments, any leadership roles you’ve taken on, and other projects you’ve worked on. The more specific and personal the details, the more compelling the letter will be.
• Show appreciation. After they’ve written the letter, send a quick thank-you note or give them a small token of appreciation. A simple show of gratitude goes a long way in strengthening your relationship with your recommenders.

Some programs at USC may ask for more letters, so be sure to check the requirements for your intended major. If you choose to submit additional letters, they can offer even more insight into who you are, but make sure they add something new to your application.

USC Application Deadlines

If you’re working on how to get into USC, staying on top of deadlines makes applying so much easier! Whether you’re going for Early Action (EA), Regular Decision (RD), or applying to a major that needs a portfolio or audition, knowing these important dates will help you keep things chill and submit your best work.

Mark these dates on your calendar, set some reminders, and give yourself plenty of time to work on your application. It’ll save you from any last-minute stress and help you put your best foot forward. You got this!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I get into USC with low test scores?

Yes! USC is test-optional, so you’re not required to submit SAT or ACT scores. If standardized testing isn’t your strength, don’t worry. Your application will still be considered holistically, with focus on your GPA, extracurriculars, essays, and recommendations.

If you decide to submit your scores, aim for at least a 1530+ on the SAT or a 35+ on the ACT to stay competitive. If your scores are a bit lower than you would like, consider retaking them to give your application a boost.

2. What GPA do I need to get into USC?

USC doesn’t have a strict minimum GPA, but for a competitive application, you’ll want to aim for a 3.86 or higher. Most admitted students are at the top of their class, often with a combination of AP, IB, or honors classes to show their academic rigor.

If your GPA is a bit lower, don’t panic! USC looks at your application as a whole. Strong extracurricular involvement, leadership roles, and solid recommendation letters can help balance out your GPA.

3. What is USC known for?

USC is known for being a prestigious research university with a strong reputation in a variety of fields. It excels in cinema arts (home to the famous School of Cinematic Arts), business (USC Marshall School of Business), and engineering (Viterbi School of Engineering). Additionally, it has a well-regarded health sciences program, particularly its Keck School of Medicine, as well as its world-class athletic programs.

4. Is USC test-optional?

Yes! USC has a test-optional policy. You can choose whether or not to submit your SAT or ACT scores. If you believe your scores will strengthen your application, feel free to submit them. However, if standardized testing isn’t your strong suit, leaving them out won’t put you at a disadvantage. USC takes a holistic approach to reviewing applications, focusing on coursework, extracurriculars, essays, and recommendations.

5. How much does it cost to attend USC?

For the 2024-2025 academic year, USC’s tuition is $69,904 per year. When you add in housing, meals, books, and other fees, the total cost of attendance is around $83,191-$95,225. USC offers need-based financial aid and merit scholarships to help make education more accessible. Be sure to explore available financial aid options if cost is a concern.

Takeaways

Wondering how to get into USC? Here’s a quick rundown of what you need to focus on:

• USC is competitive with an acceptance rate of 9.8%. To stand out, make sure your application highlights your passion for learning, leadership qualities, and how you actively engage with your community.
• Aim for a solid GPA, ideally around a 3.86 or higher. Taking challenging courses like AP, IB, or honors shows USC you’re ready to take on their rigorous academics.
• Test scores are optional, but if you submit them, aim for the high end. A competitive SAT score is 1530+ and an ACT score of 35+.
• Your essays and extracurriculars should tell a compelling story. What have you done with your time? How have you made a difference? USC values critical thinkers who contribute to their communities and bring diverse perspectives.
• Still unsure about how to get into USC? College applications can be overwhelming, but with expert guidance from a college admissions consultant, you can make the process easier. A solid plan and a thoughtful application can help you make a great impression on USC’s admissions team.