University of Southern California Admission

The University of Southern California Admission (USC) is known for its high academic standards and rankings.  Recently, USC received 82,027 freshman applications, with 9.8% of applicants being admitted. With over 47,000 students, 21,000 undergraduates and 26,000 graduate and professional students, it is considered one of the best universities in the United States.

For those looking to study in the USA, USC offers an opportunity to learn in a prestigious academic environment. The University of Southern California provides a range of programs, such as Science, Engineering etc. Whether you are an undergraduate or pursuing graduate studies, USC supports your academic journey every step of the way.

Before you explore the admission requirements, let’s have a look at the overview of University of Southern California:

Note: Refer to the official program page to know more about the programs and explore various options available at USC.

Now that you have an idea about the University of Southern California, let’s explore the admission dates and requirements in detail.

University of Southern California Admission Dates

The University of Southern California offers multiple intakes, including Early Action, Early Decision, and Regular Decision, depending on the program and major. In last year, USC received 82,027 applications, with only 9.8% being admitted. Understanding these key deadlines is essential for planning your application. 

Below are the main intake dates for USC's admissions process.

Below is a breakdown of intakes for University of Southern California Admissions:

Early Action Intake

Early Action is a non-binding option available for most majors, excluding those that require a portfolio or audition. This intake is ideal for students looking to be considered for USC Merit Scholarships. The application deadline for Early Action is November 1.

Here’s a breakdown of the Early Action intake:

Note: Deadlines and intake periods vary depending on the program. Please refer to the university's website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Now, let's look at Early Decision intake and its timelines. 

Early Decision (ED) Intake

Early Decision is a binding application option for students who are committed to attending USC if admitted. Students applying through this route can also be considered for USC Merit Scholarships. The application deadline for Early Decision is November 1.

Here’s a breakdown of the Early Decision intake:

Note: Deadlines and intake periods vary depending on the program. Please refer to the university's website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Now, let's look at Regular Decision intake and its timelines. 

Regular Decision Intake

The Regular Decision intake is divided into two categories based on whether the major requires a portfolio or audition. Students applying to majors that require a portfolio or audition must submit their application by November 1, 2025. 

For those applying to majors that do not require a portfolio or audition, the final application deadline is January 10, 2026. 

Here’s a breakdown of the Regular Decision intake:

Note: Deadlines and intake periods vary depending on the program. Please refer to the university's website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Now that you’ve explored the admission intakes, let’s look at the University of Southern California Admission process. 

University of Southern California Admission Process

The University of Southern California (USC) ranking has seen consistent accreditations among the top U.S. universities, and has a well-structured admission process for both undergraduate and graduate programs.

As part of the application, students must submit various documents, including letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and proof of English language proficiency. 

Here’s how the application process works:

• Step 1: Choose Your Course Type
  University of Southern California offers a variety of undergraduate and postgraduate programs. Based on your status (international or domestic), select the appropriate course type:
  • Undergraduate Programs (Domestic and International)
  • Graduate Programs (Domestic and International)
• Step 2: Create an Online Application
  Begin your application using the University of Southern California online portal. During the application process, you will need to provide:
  • Course Code
  • Course Name
  • Program Start Date
  • Campus Selection
• Step 3: Prepare and Submit Your Documents
  After completing the online portion of your application, send the following documents: 
  • Official Transcripts: Include transcripts  (consolidated mark sheets)  from all academic work. All transcripts must be in English or accompanied by an official translation.
  • English Language Proficiency: Proof of English proficiency (if applicable). Acceptable tests include:
    • IELTS: Minimum score of 7
    • TOEFL: Minimum score of 100
    • PTE Academic: Minimum score of 68
  • Letter of Recommendation: The number of letters you will need varies by program. Be sure to check with your program of interest for specific requirements.
  • Statement of Purpose (for graduate applicants): A personal statement outlining your academic goals, interests, and reasons for choosing USC.
  • Official Examination Results: GRE or GMAT scores if applicable to your program.
  • Copy of Passport: For international applicants.
  • For Transfer Students:  
    • University Transcripts: If applying as a transfer student, provide transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
• Step 4: Submit Financial Documents (International Students Only)

International students must submit financial documents to prove their ability to finance their education. This includes the Declaration and Certification of Finances (DCF), along with the following certificates:

• Bank Statements: Showing proof of available funds to cover tuition, fees, and living expenses.
• Affidavit of Support: If applicable, to show financial support from a sponsor.
• Financial Guarantee Letters: From government or sponsoring agencies, if applicable.
• Step 5: Pay the Application Fee:
  • Application Fee: $90 (INR 7.7K) for most graduate programs, with the exception of the Marshall School of Business ($155 (INR 13.2K)) and the International Academy’s Pre-Master’s program ($175 (INR 15K)).
  • Fee Waivers: Available for eligible applicants after initiating the application process. Refer to the Fee Waivers page for eligibility and documentation requirements.
• Step 6: Submit Your Application:
  • Once your documents are ready, submit your complete application through the online portal. You will receive a login ID to track your application status.
• Step 7: Wait for the Outcome:
  • After submission, your application will be assessed. You will be notified of the decision via email, and you may be asked to submit additional documentation if necessary.

Need Help? If you're unsure about meeting the requirements or selecting the right program, book a free one-on-one counseling session with an expert for personalized guidance.

With the application process outlined, let’s move on to the specific MBA Admissions process at University of Southern California.

University of Southern California MBA Admissions

The MBA program at the University of Southern California is a two-year program offers leadership skills for in-depth learning and networking. Students gain exposure to a global business environment while developing the tools to lead across industries.

For international applicants, this program is eligible for the OPT-STEM extension, providing additional work opportunities after graduation. The admissions process requires a combination of academic qualifications and professional experience.

The application for the MBA program follows multiple rounds, with Round 3 application deadlines being April 15, 2025 (Closed) for submission and June 1, 2025 (Closed) for enrollment.

To gain admission to the MBA, you need the following requirements:

MBA Admission Requirement 

To be considered for the MBA program at USC, applicants must provide several essential documents, including academic transcripts, proof of English language proficiency, and standardized test scores (GMAT/GRE). These materials help ensure that applicants are well-prepared for the challenges of the program. 

Additionally, candidates should submit a comprehensive CV, letters of recommendation (LORs), a personal statement, and a resume.

Here are the admission requirements:

Note: Deadlines and specific program requirements may vary. Please refer to the official USC MBA website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

University of Southern California offers students both need-based and merit-based scholarships to reduce their financial burden. Let’s explore them.

MBA Scholarships

The University of Southern California provides various study abroad scholarships to assist MBA students with financial costs. These scholarships include both merit-based and need-based options. A prominent example is the Forté Scholarship, which is given to individuals who showcase exceptional leadership in areas like mentoring, women's initiatives, and promoting gender equality.

Here are some MBA scholarships for students:

Note: Many other scholarships are available based on the country you are from. Be sure to check the official University of Southern California website for the most up-to-date information on scholarships available to international students.

After determining University of Southern California Admission requirements and scholarships for MBA, let’s explore the same for MS students.

University of Southern California MS Admissions

The University of Southern California courses offer a range of master's programs designed to equip students with advanced skills and knowledge in their chosen fields. These programs are structured to meet the growing demands of industries and prepare students for leadership roles. 

Notable programs include MS in Computer Engineering and MS in Engineering Management, which provide specialized training to help students excel in technical and managerial roles.

Here are the admission requirements for master's programs:

MS Admission Requirement 

To be considered for the MS programs at USC, applicants must submit various documents that reflect their academic qualifications and professional experience. This helps ensure that candidates are equipped for the comprehensive curriculum ahead. 

The requirements include academic transcripts, language proficiency levels of English, and specific documentation based on the chosen specialization. 

Here are the requirements for admissions:

Note: GRE/GMAT scores are required for specific graduate applicants. Check the official site for program specific details.

With the admission requirements covered, let’s now explore the available scholarships for MS students to help support their academic journey.

MS Scholarships

USC offers a variety of scholarships for MS in the USA, providing financial support to both domestic and international students pursuing their master's degrees. 

These scholarships help ease the financial burden of graduate education while recognizing students for their academic achievements, leadership potential, and commitment to fields such as engineering and AI. 

Here are some popular scholarships for MS students:

Note: Many other scholarships are available based on the specific criteria. Be sure to check the official University of Southern California website for the most up-to-date information on scholarships available to international students.

After exploring the admission requirements for the MS program, let’s take a look at what it takes to gain admission to PG courses.

University of Southern California: Other PG Courses Admission

USC offers a diverse range of postgraduate courses beyond the MBA, including specialized programs like MS in Civil Engineering (Transportation Systems) and MS in Electrical and Computer Engineering. These programs are designed to equip students with advanced knowledge and skills in their respective fields. 

Let’s look at the specific admission requirements for these postgraduate courses:

Other PG Course Admission Requirements 

The admission requirements for other postgraduate programs at USC are largely aligned with those for the MBA, focusing on academic excellence and professional experience. These programs seek candidates who demonstrate strong academic performance and relevant work experience to succeed in a competitive academic environment.

Applicants will need to submit essential documents such as academic transcripts, proof of English language proficiency, a Statement of Purpose (SOP), a CV, and letters of recommendation.

Here are the key requirements for PG courses:

Note: Applicants applying based on work experience should provide a detailed CV outlining their employment history and professional experience.

University of Southern California’s admissions for master’s and bachelor’s degrees have similar requirements, though bachelor’s programs may have some variations in academic prerequisites. Let’s take a closer look at the detailed requirements.

University of Southern California Bachelors Admission

The University of Southern California offers more than 80 undergraduate courses across various disciplines, providing students with diverse academic opportunities. USC’s programs are designed to improve creativity, critical thinking, and innovation, preparing students for leadership roles in their respective fields.

From engineering to business and the arts, USC’s undergraduate programs are designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed for success.

Before exploring the admission requirements, let’s take a look at the advantages of getting admitted to University of Southern California:

Advantages of Getting into University of Southern California

USC provides numerous benefits to its students, ranging from academic excellence to real-world opportunities. The university offers co-op programs, and internships, allowing students to gain hands-on experience and build valuable industry connections while studying. 

Here are the advantages of studying at University of Southern California:

• World Rankings: Ranked #65 in Best Value Schools by U.S. News & World Report, ensuring students receive quality education at an excellent value.
• Top-tier programs: USC ranks #30 in Best Undergraduate Engineering Programs, #8 in Accounting, and #9 in International Business.
• Entrepreneurial Excellence: Ranked #3 in Real Estate and #9 in Best Colleges for Veterans, USC provides unique resources for students to succeed in various fields, including real estate and business.
• Co-op and Internship Opportunities: Access a wide range of co-op programs and internships to gain practical work experience while studying.
• Warren Bennis Scholars Program: A leadership-focused program that develops students' commitment to community service and ethical leadership.
• Sustainability Gateway: Financial support, training, and paid positions are available for students working on sustainability-related academic and research projects.

With the benefits of studying  explored, let’s find out the requirements for UG admission. 

Bachelors Admission Requirements

USC offers a diverse range of undergraduate courses, including programs like the Bachelor of Science in Applied Mechanics, designed to equip students with a strong foundation for careers in engineering and applied sciences. International students make up 26.6% of the student body at USC, contributing to the university’s rich cultural diversity.

Here are the requirements for admission:

Note: The minimum academic scores and required subjects vary depending on the course, whether it is in engineering or humanities.

With the undergraduate admission requirements in place, let’s explore the scholarship opportunities available to help fund your education.

University of Southern California’s Bachelors Scholarships 

USC offers several scholarships to help support undergraduate students, with opportunities for both domestic and international applicants. These scholarships are designed to recognize and reward students who have demonstrated exceptional academic achievement and leadership potential.

USC Merit Scholarships, for example, recognize academic excellence, leadership, service, and talent, and they range in value from a few thousand dollars to full tuition. 

Here are some popular scholarships to study in the USA for Indian student for bachelors programs:

Once you’ve explored the admission requirements and scholarship opportunities, it’s time to understand the application process. Let’s look at University of Southern California’s International student support services. 

University of Southern California Student Support Services

The University of Southern California is ranked #9 in International Business, offering students not only exceptional academic programs but also a comprehensive range of support services to ensure their success. USC's student support services are designed to help students handle academic challenges and maintain mental well-being.

Here are the support services provided by University of Southern California:

• Mental Health and Wellness: USC prioritizes mental health support, offering resources like Campus Support & Intervention and the WorkWell Center for faculty, staff, and post-docs.
• Academic Accommodations: The university provides academic accommodations for students during challenging times, ensuring flexibility and support personalized to individual needs.
• Student Commitment and Unifying Values: Students at USC commit to integrity, diversity, inclusion, and accountability, creating a strong sense of community and shared values.
• Group Gatherings or Events: USC offers guidance for safe demonstrations and student activism, helping students engage in causes responsibly.
• Safety: USC ensures campus safety with enhanced security measures, including the presence of security personnel and "Yellow Jackets" to monitor and report incidents.
• Reporting Concerns: USC encourages students to report concerns through its website, ensuring that incidents of harassment, discrimination, or misconduct are addressed promptly.
• USC Kortschak Center for Learning and Creativity: The center provides specialized support to help students develop their academic skills and overcome learning challenges.

These resources aim to provide a comprehensive support system to ensure that every student at University of Southern California has the tools they need to excel academically and personally.