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How to Respond to the 2023/2024 University of Southern California Supplemental Essays

Cece Gilmore is a Content Writer at Scholarships360. Cece earned her undergraduate degree in Journalism and Mass Communications from Arizona State University. While at ASU, she was the education editor as well as a published staff reporter at Downtown Devil. Cece was also the co-host of her own radio show on Blaze Radio ASU.

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Bill Jack has over a decade of experience in college admissions and financial aid. Since 2008, he has worked at Colby College, Wesleyan University, University of Maine at Farmington, and Bates College.

Maria Geiger is Director of Content at Scholarships360. She is a former online educational technology instructor and adjunct writing instructor. In addition to education reform, Maria’s interests include viewpoint diversity, blended/flipped learning, digital communication, and integrating media/web tools into the curriculum to better facilitate student engagement. Maria earned both a B.A. and an M.A. in English Literature from Monmouth University, an M. Ed. in Education from Monmouth University, and a Virtual Online Teaching Certificate (VOLT) from the University of Pennsylvania.

With the warm Cali weather and beautiful campus, it is no surprise that students are so eager to apply to USC in Los Angeles. The USC supplemental essays are a perfect way to stand out from the rest of the USC applicants. Keep reading this guide to learn more about how to make your responses to the USC supplemental essays the best they can be!

Breaking down the USC supplemental essays

Be prepared to write, because USC asks for a lot of USC supplemental essays responses! However, this should not deter you from applying, rather, it should make you more excited! Essays offer you the opportunity to show who you are to the USC admissions officers. 

Here is a list of essays to respond to:

• 1 250 word essay
• 1 optional 250 word essay 
• 10 quick short answers
• 1 Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences essay (only for Dornsife students)
• 1 Viterbi School of Engineering 250 word essay (with 2 options to choose from only for Viterbit students)

For the list of 10 short questions, they are almost rapid fire questions with a quick and easy response to a less open-ended question. For these, just be you and have fun! 

Now that you know what to expect from the USC supplemental essays, let’s take a look at them! 

“Describe how you plan to pursue your academic interests at USC. Please feel free to address your first- and second-choice major selections. (250 word limit)”

Most college applications ask you to select a major, so take this question as an opportunity to explain and elaborate on the “why.” Why do you want to major in this topic? What do you hope to do with a degree in this major? How will this major help you pursue your dreams? 

Be specific

In addition to simply mentioning your major and reason behind selecting this major, you should also touch upon any courses or extracurriculars that will help you reach your future goals.

For example, if you want to major in biology, you can talk about how you are excited to be able to take the USC BISC 469L: Marine Biology course because you have always been fascinated by marine life. 

Being specific with the course names will prove to the USC admissions officers that you have done your research. They will recognize that you are truly passionate about furthering your education in this particular field. 

Still undecided?

If you are unsure about what you want to major in, do not worry! It is a big decision to make at this point in your life. Remember, a lot of applicants are feeling the same way. Therefore, you should not share a major and talk about a passion if you are not truly certain or interested in this major. 

Rather, you should be authentic and describe why you are unsure of what you want to major in. In addition, you should then detail what academic programs or clubs you hope to become involved in to find your true passion. The most important thing to do if you are taking the undecided major route is to detail how you will take advantage of USC to discover what you are truly interested in. 

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Essay #2 – optional.

Starting with the beginning of high school/secondary school, if you have had a gap where you were not enrolled in school during a fall or spring term, please address this gap in your educational history. You do not need to address a summer break (250 words). (250 words) 

Only answer this essay if you have a gap in your education. If this does not apply to you, you do not have to answer this question. However, if it does apply to you then you should answer this question as truthfully as possible. 

Questions to consider

• Why did you choose to take a gap year or semester? 
• Did you even choose to take off? 
• What external factors affected your education? 

While this is a more serious and specific question, you can still be creative in your response. Meaning, rather than stating why, you can tell the personal  story that led you to make this decision. This can lead the USC admissions officers to empathize with your situation.

Essay 3 – short answer questions

The short answer questions ask you to answer in 100 characters or less, unless otherwise directed. This means these questions should be rapid fire responses. Do not overthink these! This is a fun section that allows the reader to get to know you and your opinions better! Just be sure to not answer a response in a way that has already been revealed in your application. 

1. Describe yourself in three words. (25 characters each)

Think about your most defining characteristics. If someone close to you had to choose 3 words to describe you, what would they say? 

2. What is your favorite snack?

Don’t think, just answer! What are you craving? Do you have a sweet tooth? If you were given the choice to pick one snack from the grocery store what would you pick? 

3. Best movie of all time

Try to think of a movie that is not typically picked to be the best movie of all time! You want your uniqueness to shine through! Be sure you are selecting a movie you have actually seen and enjoyed. 

4. Dream job

What are you working towards in college? What do you “want to be” when you graduate? You can choose to go the serious or silly route for this question. So, you could make up a job such as “Chocolate taste-tester because the decadence of creamy milk chocolate is my favorite thing on Earth.”

5. If your life had a theme song, what would it be?

This is a creative question! Therefore, try to pick a creative answer. Find a song that has meaningful lyrics that can relate to your life. 

6. Dream trip

Try to avoid cliches with this answer such as Disneyworld – remember, you are trying to stand out from the rest of USC applicants. Think of somewhere you have always wanted to visit. Be specific! Do not just mention the city, state, or country, but rather, mention the specifics. 

7. What TV show will you binge watch next?

What TV show do you love? What TV show could you watch without getting sick of it? 

8. Which well-known person or fictional character would be your ideal roommate?

This question allows you to have a lot of fun, so dig deep into your imagination! Try to write a quick reason as to why they would make a good roommate. For example, maybe Harry Potter because you know he is used to sharing small quarters!

9. Favorite Book

What is your favorite book? Did a certain book change your life?

10. If you could teach a class on any topic, what would it be?

What are you passionate about? Do you nerd out about something? What would you love to speak to people about? You can also be creative with this answer and choose a course that does not exist! For example, the “psychology of aliens” which requires a trip to outer space! 

Also see: How to respond to the Common App prompts

Essay 4: Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences applicants only – 

Many of us have at least one issue or passion that we care deeply about — a topic on which we would love to share our opinions and insights in hopes of sparking intense interest and continued conversation. If you had ten minutes and the attention of a million people, what would your talk be about? (250 words)

The first thing that came to your mind when reading this essay- that’s what you should write about! You’ll want to select a topic that really fascinates you. You should be able to talk about this for hours and hours – not just 10 minutes. 

This is an extremely open-ended essay, so there are an infinite number of topics you could choose to write about. When deciding what to choose, remember to select something that has not already been shared on your application. 

Some ideas of things to write about for this essay: 

• A social issue 
• A lesson you have learned 
• Other cultures
• A controversial take (do not select something too controversial!) 

These are just a few examples to get your mind turning. Remember, there is a lot of freedom here, so you can pick any topic you want! Just be sure to use narratives and anecdotes to make your story shine through. After all, you want the USC admissions officers to learn why you are passionate about a topic, not just what the topic is. 

Essay 5: Viterbi School of Engineering applicants only – option 1

“ The student body at the USC Viterbi School of Engineering is a diverse group of unique engineers and computer scientists who work together to engineer a better world for all humanity. Describe how your contributions to the USC Viterbi student body may be distinct from others. Please feel free to touch on any part of your background, traits, skills, experiences, challenges, and/or personality in helping us better understand you. * (250 word limit)”

To answer this essay, you need to select a personal characteristic that distinguishes you from the other engineering students. Therefore, this trait or aspect of yourself should connect back to Viterbi and how you will make a difference in the school. Start out by brainstorming and asking yourself some questions.

• What aspect of yourself have you not mentioned so far in your USC application? 
• What are you passionate about? 
• When you have free time, what are you doing? 
• How have you prepared yourself to become an engineer? 
• Why does engineering interest you? 
• Why USC? Why USC engineering? 

Essentially, you want to write to USC detailing how you are a stand-out applicant who is different from the rest. So, narrow in on what makes you special. However, it is important for the Viterbi supplemental essay that you are also acknowledging how you will thrive in this environment because of your uniqueness. 

Essay 5: Viterbi School of Engineering applicants only – option 2

“ The National Academy of Engineering (NAE) and their 14 Grand Challenges go hand-in-hand with our vision to engineer a better world for all humanity. Engineers and computer scientists are challenged to solve these problems in order to improve life on the planet. Learn more about the NAE Grand Challenges at http://engineeringchallenges.org and tell us which challenge is most important to you, and why.* (250 word limit)” 

For this response, you should be sure to read through the NAE Grand Challenges. This will provide you with valuable background information. Once you have read through all of the NAE Grand Challenges, think about the challenge you find to be the most important. The most important thing about this response is not what challenge you choose to write about. Rather, it is the way you justify your response. 

For example, you can choose “provide access to clean water,” however, you need to be creative in your justification. Start out by making a quick list of questions to ask yourself. 

• Everyone wants clean water – so how will accessing clean water affect you? 
• What would you do if you could create an invention that gives everyone access to clean water?
• Why is clean water important? 

It is critical that you are creative in your justification, no matter which challenge you deem the most important. 

Final thoughts on responding to the USC supplemental essays

We understand that the USC supplemental essays can be quite overwhelming. Therefore, just take it one essay at a time and space out writing your responses. Figure out which options most interest you and select those. 

After you write your USC supplemental essay responses, ask a trusted individual to read over your responses before you submit your application. Ask them to check for any spelling errors and also  that you have not repeated yourself at all. Remember, each USC essay is the opportunity to reveal more about yourself. 

Take a deep breath! You got this. Remember to have fun in your responses and remind yourself of what you are working towards… a great education located in sunny California! 

Next steps after applying to USC

Congratulations! It is time to submit your flawless USC application! Now that your application is submitted, be sure to check the following for any updates to your application status: 

• Your Email 
• Any USC social media accounts

Additional resources

Scholarships360 is here to help you navigate the challenging terrain of the college admissions process. Are you curious about what looks good to submit to colleges ? We have a guide for that. Wondering if you should send your SAT/ACT scores ? We have a guide for that. Confused on how many schools to apply to ? We have a guide for that too! 

Also see : How to choose a college

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Scholarship guide, combining the university scholarship with other awards.

Recipients of University Scholarships often receive other USC and private scholarships. Please carefully review this guide, which will explain how other awards from USC or other sources, including need-based financial aid, may affect or be affected by your University Scholarship. Please also note the requirements for renewing your University Scholarship.

USC Competitive Scholarships If you receive a USC Competitive Scholarship, you will be eligible for up to $2,000 of the University Scholarship.

Tuition Assistance Benefit and Tuition Exchange If you receive a USC or other university’s tuition assistance benefit or tuition exchange award, it will not affect your University Scholarship unless the total of all scholarships and tuition benefits exceeds your USC Cost of Attendance.

Private Scholarships If you receive any private, non-university scholarships, the scholarships will not affect the amount of the University scholarship unless the total of all such scholarships exceeds your USC Cost of Attendance.

State Award Based on Need If you are given a state award based on need (e.g. the Cal Grant for California Residents), the award will not affect the amount of the University Scholarship unless the total of all scholarships and grants exceeds your federal need.

Renewing your University Scholarship

The University Scholarship is renewable for an additional three years (four years for students in the five-year architecture program) if you make normal academic progress toward your undergraduate degree during each academic year (not including summer) and maintain your academic standing with USC. If you are academically disqualified by the USC Office of Academic Records and Registrar and the Committee on Academic Policies and Procedures (CAPP), you will lose your scholarship. Readmittance to the university will not restore your eligibility for your scholarship.

You do not need to apply for financial aid to receive your University Scholarship. However, if you wish to be considered for federal, state, or university need-based funds in future years (including the Federal Direct Stafford Loan program), you must meet all USC financial aid application requirements and deadlines each year.

Donor Scholarships The University of Southern California is fortunate to have generous benefactors who have created scholarships for students demonstrating academic excellence and/or financial need. The specific names of these awards vary based on the name of the scholarship donor. In the future we may replace your University Scholarship with a named Donor Scholarship. The terms and conditions for that named Donor Scholarship will remain the same as those listed above for the University Scholarship.

If you have any questions, please  contact  the Financial Aid Office.

USC Supplemental Essays 2023-24 Prompts and Tips

September 1, 2023

When applying to a school like the University of Southern California, it is important to grasp that their acceptance rate in 2023 is lower than Harvard’s back in the late 1990s. Last cycle, USC received roughly 80,000 applications and admitted just 9% from that pool (their first time in the single digits). We don’t bring up these numbers or the Friends -era Harvard comparison to cause future applicants unnecessary fear. Rather, we want aspiring Trojans to realize that in addition to strong high school grades and standardized test scores, they need to excel in other critical areas of their application as well. This brings us to the topic of the USC supplemental essays.

(Want to learn more about How to Get Into the University of Southern California? Visit our blog entitled:  How to Get Into USC: Admissions Data and Strategies   for all of the most recent admissions data as well as tips for gaining acceptance.)

The supplemental essay section offered by USC is a fairly epic one and presents just such an opportunity for students to differentiate themselves from swarms of other qualified applicants. In addition to several short essays, you are also required to answer 10 short answer questions. Below are the USC’s supplemental prompts for the 2023-24 admissions cycle along with tips about how to address each one.

2023-24 USC Supplemental Essays – Required Prompt #1

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. (Approximately 250 words)

This is part “Why Us?” and part “Explain Your Major” and your aim is to seamlessly touch on both topics in a tightly woven 250-word composition. For a deeper dive, let’s examine a list of characteristics of a winning USC “Why Us?” essay:

• How did your interest in your major of choice begin and how has it matured over the years?
• While pursuing your majors(s)/interest(s) of choice, how will you take advantage of the university’s immense resources both inside and outside of the classroom? Be sure to cite specific  academic programs ,  professors ,  research opportunities ,  internship/externship programs , and  study abroad programs . Discuss why they pique your interest.
• Feel free to touch on  student-run organizations  related to your field of study that you would like to join.
• Lastly, don’t ignore your second-choice major in this essay.

In any “Why Us?” composition, you need to show that you’ve done your homework on a given school, but you don’t want it to read like a robotic list of items that you Googled ten minutes before writing the essay (even if the timing of the Google search is roughly accurate). In addition to the pure research element, a lot of the time and skill required in creating a stellar USC essay will involve connecting the classes, professors, opportunities, etc. of interest that you have uncovered to your distinct values, talents, aims, proficiencies, and future goals.

USC Supplemental Essays – Short Answers

(#1 provides 25 characters for each word, and #2-10 provide 100 characters each)

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

USC Supplemental Essays (Continued)

It would be a bit silly to try to advise you on what your favorite snack is. Obviously, the USC admissions committee wants to hear “Pepperoni Pizza Combos” but will also accept “Ranch-flavored Bugles.” As such, we’ll keep our advice on these a bit broader:

• This is a chance to make a personal connection with an admissions officer. Don’t overthink these or pick movies, books, songs, or trips that you think an admissions officer will find impressive. Just be genuine.
• For #1, try to avoid words like “interesting” that are…well, not very  interesting , or words that could describe most of USC’s applicant pool, like “hard-working” or “dedicated.”
• For #10, don’t pick a general topic in a traditional discipline. Instead, pick something about which you are passionate. This could be a blend of pop culture and academics or a highly esoteric topic that you happen to be obsessed with (e.g., the Beatles 1965-67 mid-career era, the history of jai-alai, or how to groom a ferret).
• You have 100 characters to utilize, so do include some short explanations that infuse your answers with extra personality. For example, you could jazz up Ranch-flavored Bugles as follows: “Ranch-flavored Bugles, me and my mom’s go-to Jeopardy snack.”
• Final tip: if you feel stuck, try brainstorming a few options for each one before choosing your favorite.

USC Supplemental Essays – School-Specific Prompts

In addition to the required essays noted above, you’ll also need to answer at least one additional essay question that is dependent on the school or college you are applying to at USC. Below, we’ve broken down the most popular options:

Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences

Many of us have at least one issue or passion that we care deeply about – a topic on which we would love to share our opinions and insights in hopes of sparking intense interest and continued conversation. If you had ten minutes and the attention of a million people, what would your talk be about? (250 words)

What makes you tick? What keeps you up at night? Which subjects could (and do) you talk about for hours if given the opportunity? If you could address one problem in the world, large or small, what would it be? Here’s your chance to tell us all about it. You’ll then want to explain “why”—why will (or should) your passion/topic of choice be made relevant to a wider audience? Why is it so important that others hear your message? Your answer will give admissions readers greater insight into what type of issues are most important to you.

Viterbi School of Engineering

The National Academy of Engineering (NAE) and their 14 Grand Challenges go hand-in-hand with our vision to engineer a better world for all humanity. Engineers and computer scientists are challenged to solve these problems in order to improve life on the planet. Learn more about the NAE Grand Challenges at  http://engineeringchallenges.org  and tell us which challenge is most important to you, and why. (250 words)

The NAE Grand Challenges list is expansive and includes a number of pressing issues, like clean water access, solar energy, and nuclear terrorism. Basically, you are 100% guaranteed to find at least one item on this list that resonates with you. After reviewing the options, which one are you most passionate about, and why? Is there something from your personal background or experiences that inspired your interest in this area? Alternatively, have you engaged with this topic either inside or outside of school, and if so, how? What would you still like to learn about it? If you choose an issue that you are genuinely interested in and clearly convey your reasoning for doing so, you’ll be well on your way to a compelling response.

The student body at the USC Viterbi School of Engineering is a diverse group of unique engineers and computer scientists who work together to engineer a better world for all humanity. Describe how your contributions to the USC Viterbi student body may be distinct from others. Please feel free to touch on any part of your background, traits, skills, experiences, challenges, and/or personality in helping us better understand you. (250 words)

Take note of the wide-open nature of this prompt. You are essentially invited to talk about any of the following topics:

• A perspective you hold
• An experience/challenge you had
• A community you belong to
• Your cultural background
• Your family background
• A personality trait
• A skill you hold

Although this prompt’s open floor plan may feel daunting, a good tactic is to first consider what has already been communicated within your Common App personal statement, activities list, and other USC essays. What important aspects of yourself have not been shared (or sufficiently discussed)? The admissions officer reading your essay is hoping to connect with you through your written words, so—within your essay’s reflection—be open, humble, thoughtful, inquisitive, emotionally honest, mature, and/or insightful about what you learned and how you grew. No matter what type of story you tell, the goal is to have the reader come away saying, “I can definitely see this applicant as a contributing member of our talented and engaged Viterbi community.”

How important are the USC supplemental essays?

There are five factors that USC considers to be “very important” to their candidate evaluation process and the essay section is one of them. Along with GPA, standardized test scores, rigor of high school coursework, and recommendations, the Common App and supplement essays play a huge role in the USC admissions staff’s decision-making.

Want personalized assistance?

Lastly, if you are interested in working with one of College Transitions’ experienced and knowledgeable essay coaches as you craft your USC supplemental essays, we encourage you to  get a quote  today.

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USC Supplemental Essays 2023-24

Are you interested in applying to USC? Strong USC supplemental essays can make all the difference in the application process. In this guide, we will discuss the University of Southern California’s supplemental essay requirements and application deadlines. We will cover what role essays play in your application review and discuss how to write a strong why USC essay. Additionally, we’ll provide some examples of USC school-specific supplemental essays.

University of Southern California Background

The University of Southern California, often known as USC, is one of the nation’s premier research universities. Located in Los Angeles, California, USC offers undergraduate and graduate degrees to almost 50,000 students. In addition to USC’s academic accomplishments, it also provides students with a great environment in a bustling city. Impressively, USC is ranked # 25 of all the private and public colleges in the country.

Logically, as such top ranking university, USC enrolls some of the best students in the world. In 2022, USC received almost 70,000 first-year applications. But, they admitted just 12% . Unsurprisingly, those students accepted had impressive academics: an average GPA range of 3.82-4.0 and an SAT range of 1410-1540. Selective institutions like USC receive thousands of applicants with high GPAs and SAT scores. Therefore, this means that they look for students with impressive personal attributes, extracurricular involvements, and essays. 

Keep reading to learn more about the USC essay requirements and how you can use them to your advantage.

USC Essay Prompts: Quick Facts

• University of Southern California Acceptance Rate – US News ranks the University of Southern California as a most selective school, with an acceptance rate of 12%.
• 1 Why USC essay 
• 10 short answer essays 
• Early Action: November 1 st
• Regular Decision: January 5 th
• The USC admissions application is hosted on the Common App . Additional required materials include transcripts, letters of recommendation, optional test scores and a portfolio or additional writing sample if required by major. 
• Some academic programs have their own USC essays, so be sure to research those USC supplemental essays as well. 
• Why School and Why Major essays can be a great way to display how you will fit into the campus community. Don’t forget to mention the academic opportunities in and out of the classroom. 
• Don’t overthink your short answer essays. They are meant to be brief and insightful. 
• Start creating an outline for your essays well in advance. Use that outline to create a structured essay. This will allow you to stay organized and avoid writing your essay at the last minute.

Please note that essay requirements are subject to change each admissions cycle, and portions of this article may have been written before the final publication of the most recent guidelines. For the most up-to-date information on essay requirements, check the university’s admissions website. 

Does USC have supplemental essays?

Are you wondering how to get into USC? Like many other selective institutions, USC requires applicants to write USC supplemental essays. Therefore, these essays will play an important role in your application.

In addition to impressive high school transcripts and glowing letters of recommendation, strong USC supplemental essays can positively impact your application. Unlike some of the materials mentioned above, the USC essay prompts allow students to speak directly to the admissions committee. As such, your USC essays are the perfect chance to showcase your personality, interests, and motivations. 

Since USC does not have an admissions interview, the USC supplemental essays are likely the best way to make a personal connection. 

Check out the USC supplemental essay requirements: 

• 1 required Why USC essay
• 10 required short answer essays
• 1 optional educational progression essay

Technically, that’s a total of 11 USC supplemental essays and 1 optional USC writing supplement. In this guide, we’ll summarize the Why USC essay, the short answer USC supplemental essays, and the USC requirements.

Overall, don’t be intimidated by the number of USC supplemental essays. Instead, view your USC supplemental essays as a chance to highlight what makes you stand out.

Additional USC supplemental essay requirements

The application also requires prospective students applying to certain majors to complete additional USC essay prompts. The USC supplemental essays for these majors vary, but they all center around specific academic interests. 

If you are interested in one of these programs, you may need to complete additional USC supplemental essays: 

• Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Science
• USC School of Architecture
• Roski School of Art and Design
• Iovine and Young Academy for Arts
• Technology and the Business of Innovation
• Marshall School of Business (World Bachelor in Business)
• USC School of Cinematic Arts
• Kaufman School of Dance
• USC School of Dramatic Arts.

Keep reading to learn more about the USC supplemental essays and USC essays for specific majors. And, don’t forget to register for our webinar below to learn more about application timelines! 

Why USC Essay

The Why USC essay prompt is one of the most important USC writing supplements. As such, all students applying to USC must complete a Why USC essay. Luckily, the Why USC essay uses a similar format to many Why School or Why Major essays. So, you’ve probably seen similar prompts. Now, let’s review the prompt below and discuss how to structure a compelling Why USC essay. 

PROMPT #1: 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)

As we can see, the Why USC essay prompt asks the student to articulate their academic plans on the USC campus. Therefore, a strong Why USC essay should show that the student has done their research and is passionate about their academic interests.

In your Why USC essay, try to highlight specific features of USC that excite you. This can take many different forms. For example, some Why USC essays might discuss a high-powered research lab on campus. Alternatively, other Why USC essays might focus on the unique studio culture found at the USC School of Architecture (one of the best architecture schools in the country). 

Most importantly, showing your passion for your desired USC academic program should include evidence and context. So, in your Why USC essay, share what sparked your initial curiosity and what you have done to further explore the discipline. For example, a student applying to the Iovne and Young Academy could discuss how starting an e-commerce business during the pandemic sparked their interest in entrepreneurship and human-centered design. 

Undecided students

Fortunately, admissions officers also understand that not all students have a solidified career plan. If this is you, you can still write a stellar Why USC essay. How? Well, students can still craft a compelling Why USC essay by discussing their academic interests more broadly. Even if you haven’t chosen your career path, you can use your USC essays to highlight your intellectual curiosity and academic strengths. 

Looking for more information on how to write a strong Why USC essay? Then check out our guide on how to write a strong Why Major supplemental essay to help you craft a strong Why USC essay for your major. 

USC Short Answer Essays

In addition to the Why USC essay, the USC requirements also include 10 short answer USC supplemental essays. But, don’t let these short supplemental essays intimidate you. The admissions office looks for responses that reflect your interests, passions, and motivations. Therefore, like the Why USC essay, your answers should be unique to you. However, the answers to each of these questions should be no more than 25 words.

The short answer USC supplemental essays are:

1. Describe yourself in three words. 

2. what is your favorite snack, 3. best movie of all time:, 4. dream job:, 5. if your life had a theme song, what would it be, 6. dream trip:, 7. what tv show will you binge watch next, 8. which well-known person or fictional character would be your ideal roommate, 9. favorite book:, 10. if you could teach a class on any topic, what would it be.

The beauty of the short answer USC supplemental essays is they are incredibly personal. This allows you to separate yourself from what you think the admissions committee wants to hear and allows you to foreground who you really are. As such, there is no single right answer to this collection of USC essay prompts. In fact, there are many possible excellent answers.

USC School-Specific Supplemental Essays

Additionally, a handful of majors at USC require applicants to submit a USC writing supplement as part of the admissions application process. So, keep reading for a few examples of school-specific USC requirements and USC supplemental essays. 

Check out the list below to find out more about all the programs that require additional USC essays.

But, what are the major specific USC supplemental essays? Well, keep reading for a few examples of USC essays required by specific programs on the USC campus. 

USC Dornslife College of Letters, Arts, and Sciences

The USC Dornslife College of Letters, Arts, and Sciences includes the natural sciences, social sciences, and the humanities. Whether you want to major in computational neuroscience or art history, USC Dornslife wants to learn more about your passions through its USC writing supplement. 

Most importantly, a strong application to USC Dornsife includes introspective and well-constructed USC essays. There is one required essay for the USC Dornslife College of Letters, Arts and Science. Now, let’s review and discuss the best way to approach this essay. 

Many of us have at least one issue or passion that we care deeply about – a topic on which we would love to share our opinions and insights in hopes of sparking intense interest and continued conversation. If you had ten minutes and the attention of a million people, what would your talk be about? (250 words)

This USC essay asks the student to discuss a topic that they are passionate about. A strong response to this essay prompt may directly connect to your major or another interest. However, don’t forget, there is no right answer here. First and foremost, this is your opportunity to discuss what you are passionate about. Likewise, you may even connect your academic interests to this passion. But, when choosing what to write about, be sure to stay true to yourself. While you may be inclined to discuss a major world problem, don’t shy away from the smaller topics and messages that might resonate with a large audience. 

Next, we’ll discuss USC supplemental essays for the School of Architecture. 

USC School of Architecture Supplement

Impressively, the USC School of Architecture is one of the best architecture schools in the nation.  The School of Architecture offers a Bachelor of Architecture and a Bachelor of Science in Architecture and Inventive Technologies.  Applying to the USC School of Architecture requires students to complete two additional USC essay prompts and a video prompt. 

Our school views architecture as a “human right,” and that design should exhibit “social consciousness.” How do you think architecture can contribute to the greater social consciousness?

At usc architecture we will teach you to become strong critical thinkers. with that in mind please tell us about a piece of architecture that you’ve personally experienced and how its design resonated with you..

The first prompt requires students to connect architecture to the world around them. How might architecture and the built environment contribute to social consciousness? For example, you might focus on sustainable design or buildings that prioritize community spaces. 

This prompt requires reflection, so don’t hesitate to workshop a few essay ideas. Then, choose the one that best suits you. The second prompt asks students to name a specific architectural work that resonates with them. This USC essay also provides the perfect opportunity to share how the world of architecture influences your daily life. 

USC Architecture aims to engage students as critical thinkers through their USC supplemental essays. Therefore, these USC essay prompts ask students to think beyond their favorite skyscraper. Instead, you should consider how architecture and design interact with society, social consciousness, and you as a person. 

USC Video Essays

In addition to the USC essay prompts, the USC School of Architecture also has a USC supplemental video prompt.

Video Prompt:

Please produce a video that presents what you consider to be your favorite project in your portfolio and why. try to be as informative and concise as possible when you’re speaking about the project but also remember to be yourself. we are looking for students that are passionate with a keen curiosity about architecture and design..

In your video response, make sure you choose a project that reflects your interests and potential. Don’t focus on using lofty language—instead, highlight where your ideas came from and how your critical thinking skills inform the work you produce. 

Next, we will discuss the USC supplemental essays for the Viterbi School of Engineering. 

USC Viterbi Supplemental Essays

The USC Viterbi School of Engineering offers a variety of degrees in engineering and computer science. Like other programs, the USC Viterbi School of Engineering requires two additional USC supplemental essays.  Most importantly, the Viterbi USC essays seek to get into the minds of future engineers . Like the School of Architecture USC supplemental essays, the Viterbi USC essays require students to reflect on their personal experiences. 

The student body at the USC Viterbi School of Engineering is a diverse group of unique engineers and computer scientists who work together to engineer a better world for all humanity. Describe how your contributions to the USC Viterbi student body may be distinct from others. Please feel free to touch on any part of your background, traits, skills, experiences, challenges, and/or personality in helping us better understand you. (250 words)

The national academy of engineering (nae) and their 14 grand challenges go hand-in-hand with our vision to engineer a better world for all humanity. engineers and computer scientists are challenged to solve these problems in order to improve life on the planet. learn more about the nae grand challenges at http://engineeringchallenges.org and tell us which challenge is most important to you, and why..

The USC Viterbi School of Engineering wants to learn more about you through the USC supplemental essays. In the first USC writing supplement, applicants should talk about the ways their unique traits and experiences add to the USC Engineering student body. In fact, the USC Viterbi admissions blog summarizes this prompt as ”How will you make a unique contribution to the USC student body?” 

You might find some inspiration from your Why USC essay, but be sure to make each of these USC essays unique. 

Additionally, in the second Viterbi USC supplemental writing prompt, students are instructed to review key engineering challenges laid out by the National Academy of Engineering. Students then choose a specific challenge and discuss why it’s important to them. 

Structuring your essay

As you review this prompt, pay attention to the directions. Most importantly, make sure you only choose one challenge and craft a strong argument about why it matters. According to the Viterbi Admissions blog , the challenge does not have to be related to your major. Additionally, you don’t have to provide a solution to the challenge, and there is no right answer.

In each of the Viterbi USC supplemental essays, students respond to USC essay prompts that allow them to represent their most authentic selves. If you aim to study engineering or computer science at USC, these USC supplemental essays give you the chance to share your unique story and perspective. 

Does USC care about essays?

Absolutely! In fact, the more selective the institution, the more your essays might matter. Logically, highly selective schools receive many applications from students with high GPAs and test scores. Therefore, having stellar USC essays can help you stand out to the admissions committee. And, given the USC acceptance rate is just 13% , the USC essay prompts let you set yourself apart. 

In other words, admissions committees look for ways to envision you on their campuses. Indeed, they want to make sure you would enrich their community. So, your Why USC essay is one of the ways you can discuss why USC is the perfect match for you. 

USC essays are one of the ways that the admissions committee can get to know you as a person. Have you heard college admissions representatives encourage you to use “your voice” in your essay? Being authentic and introspective can allow the admissions team to learn more about you while reading your USC supplemental essays. 

What is the application deadline for USC?

Now that you know more about USC supplemental essays, let’s discuss application dates and deadlines. 

USC has two application plans: Regular Decision and Early Action. However, majors requiring a portfolio or audition are not permitted to apply Early Action or Regular Decision. Instead, they have a deadline of December 1 st . Check out this list of majors with a December 1 st deadline.  

The Early Action USC application deadline is November 1 st . The Early Action plan is non-binding and non-restrictive. Therefore, you can apply to as many colleges as you wish and there is no obligation to enroll. Early Action applicants will be notified of their results in January. The Early Action plan leaves ample time for students to review financial aid letters and visit campus before deciding on where to enroll. 

If you are not ready to submit your application in November, the Regular Decision USC application deadline is January 15 th . The Regular Decision plan is also non-binding and non-restrictive. These applicants will be notified of their admissions decision on April 1, 2024. Whether you are applying Early Action or Regular Decision, your USC supplemental essays are due on the application deadline. 

If you are already in college and are interested in transferring to USC, transfer students have a USC application deadline of January 1 st if they are already enrolled at USC and February 15 th if they are currently enrolled at another college.

Starting early

No matter what admissions plan you choose, it is critical to begin working on your USC supplemental essays well ahead of their deadline. Overall, it is never too early to begin brainstorming ideas and creating an outline. By getting organized early and not procrastinating, you can ensure you submit the strongest application possible. 

Your USC essays will also be used in your overall review for merit scholarships. But don’t forget to view the USC scholarship and financial aid deadlines! All students interested in being considered for a USC merit scholarship must apply Early Action (or by December 1 st if their major requires a portfolio or audition).

Keep reading for more resources to help with your USC essays. 

More USC Resources to explore

Are you looking for more insight on how to get into USC and craft strong USC essays? Well, CollegeAdvisor has got you covered. Now that you know more about the USC Supplemental essay requirements, check out these examples of USC supplemental essays. 

Additionally, as you are researching the USC essay prompts, don’t forget about merit scholarships and financial aid. In fact, learning about USC merit scholarships and prestigious external awards, like the Questbridge scholarship, can ease anxiety about the financial aspect of enrolling at USC.

CollegeAdvisor also hosts tons of interactive webinars to help you learn more about USC essays and admissions in general. So, get informed and watch them! Specifically, check out this Q&A webinar with former Georgetown and USC admissions officers. 

Remember that the University of Southern California is just one of many great schools in the State of California. Check out this guide to see how USC stacks up to other California colleges. 

Also, check out USC Admission’s resource videos on YouTube! The video below offers tips for approaching this year’s USC supplemental essays as well.

USC Supplemental Essays – Takeaways 

As we’ve seen in this article, USC supplemental essays are a critical part of the USC admissions application. Here’s a list of 7 takeaways to help you write strong USC supplemental essays.

7 USC Supplemental Essays Takeaways

1. usc has 11 required essays: the why usc essay and 10 short answer essays. all students, regardless of major, have this requirement., 2. your why usc essay is a great opportunity to show why you would be a great fit for usc. , 3. your short answer essays are meant to be brief and authentic. don’t overthink these , 4. depending on your major, you may have additional usc essays to submit. refer to this guide for the list of majors that have additional usc essays. , 5. the deadline for your usc essays is the same as the application deadline. so, it is incredibly important that you prepare by giving yourself ample time to write and edit your usc essays., 6. the usc office of admissions views essays as a valuable part of the application. in fact, they just might be the thing that makes you stand out., 7. be yourself these essays are structured to get a closer look at who you are. don’t shy away from this element..

Looking for more guidance on the USC essays? CollegeAdvisor is here to help. Click here to schedule a meeting with our experts today and start receiving personalized college admissions guidance.

This essay guide was written by Chelsea Holley. Looking for more admissions support? Click here to schedule a free meeting with one of our Admissions Specialists. During your meeting, our team will discuss your profile and help you find targeted ways to increase your admissions odds at top schools. We’ll also answer any questions and discuss how CollegeAdvisor.com can support you in the college application process.

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How to Write the USC Supplemental Essays 2023-2024

The University of Southern California has a few supplemental essays and creative short answers that students must complete. Your essays are one of the only opportunities you’ll have to show an admissions officer who you are beyond the numbers, and with USC’s many different prompts, it’s clear this school wants you to seize that opportunity.

Here are our tips for responding to the USC essays in a way that will help your application stand out!

Read this USC essay example to inspire your own writing. 

USC Supplemental Essay Prompts

Prompt 1: 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).

Prompt 2 (Optional): Starting with the beginning of high school/secondary school, if you have had a gap where you were not enrolled in school during a fall or spring term, please address this gap in your educational history. You do not need to address a summer break (250 words).

Short Answer Prompts: Respond to all the prompts below (100 characters unless otherwise specified)

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

Viterbi School of Engineering Prompt: The student body at the USC Viterbi School of Engineering is a diverse group of unique engineers and computer scientists who work together to engineer a better world for all humanity. Describe how your contributions to the USC Viterbi student body may be distinct from others. Please feel free to touch on any part of your background, traits, skills, experiences, challenges, and/or personality in helping us better understand you. (250 words)

Engineering and Computer Science Prompt: The National Academy of Engineering (NAE) and their 14 Grand Challenges go hand-in-hand with our vision to engineer a better world for all humanity. Engineers and computer scientists are challenged to solve these problems in order to improve life on the planet. Learn more about the NAE Grand Challenges at http://engineeringchallenges.org and tell us which challenge is most important to you, and why. (250 words)

Dornsife Applicants Prompt: Many of us have at least one issue or passion that we care deeply about — a topic on which we would love to share our opinions and insights in hopes of sparking intense interest and continued conversation. If you had ten minutes and the attention of a million people, what would your talk be about? (250 words)

Prompt 1 (Required)

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)..

The tricky bit about this prompt is that it essentially combines the “ Why This Major ” and “ Why This College ” essay archetypes into one essay with a strict cap of 250 words. That’s a lot of information in not a whole lot of space, which might feel overwhelming. The first thing you should do is figure out the content of your essay.

Step One: Think about your academic interests (i.e. your majors). 

• How did your interests develop? 
• Why are you passionate about your interests? 
• What are your goals within your interests?
• How will pursuing your major help you achieve your goals in life? 

Step Two: Think about the answers to those questions in relation to USC. 

• How will USC help you to further develop your interests? 
• What resources does the university have that will help you achieve your goals? 

While your essay should explore resources that will aid in your academic pursuits, you should also keep it as specific to USC as possible—this essay should not be able to be copied and pasted for any other university! Here’s an example of how to achieve the specificity you need:

Bad: USC is a great school, located in the beautiful city of Los Angeles, with unparalleled academics and renowned instructors.

Why is this bad? This sentence could just as easily apply to UCLA. Without the bit about Los Angeles, the reasoning could even apply to any decent school in existence.

Good: At USC, I plan to participate in the Joint Educational Project (JEP) to find a community of students who, like me, are passionate about the intersections of teaching and social justice. Through JEP, I will be able to actively use the teaching principles I learn in my classes about the Dynamics of Early Childhood.

Why is this good? It references a unique resource at USC and relates to the student’s academic interests.

The Final Step: Write a cohesive essay that tells admissions officers why you are pursuing your field and why USC is the right place for you to pursue it. Some examples could include:

• An Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering student who was obsessed with the launching of the Antares rocket, movies like Gattaca and The Martian , and their physics summer camp as a middle schooler. They could describe their goal of working for NASA, then discussing their interest in the USC Rocket Propulsion Laboratory (RPL).
• An English student who ultimately wants to write romance novels discussing the Creative Writing Hour series that is hosted by English faculty. They might want to reference some of the big-name professors at USC—like Maggie Nelson, Aimee Bender, Dana Johnson, and T.C. Boyle—who have inspired their love of writing.
• A Fine Arts applicant mentioning the Fisher Museum of Art that is on USC’s campus. It was after a school field trip to the Dallas Museum of Art (DMA) that they first tried working with graphite and learned of their life goals. They know the power of art museums for inspiration and are excited to have a constant source of inspiration just minutes away.

If you are worried about the word count, one way to maximize the little space you have is to find a way to relate your first- and second-choice majors. This way, your explanations of each wouldn’t read like separate essays; rather, they would be telling different parts of the same story. A student with a first-choice major in Physics and a second-choice major in English might want to write about their ultimate goal of writing Science Fiction novels. A student with a first-choice major in History and a second-choice major in East Asian Languages and Culture might write about their goal of curating Asian American history museums.

Make sure you focus on your academic interests/goals and tell admissions officers the ways that USC will help your academic dreams come true, and you will be set!

Prompt 2 (Optional)

Starting with the beginning of high school/secondary school, if you have had a gap where you were not enrolled in school during a fall or spring term, please address this gap in your educational history. you do not need to address a summer break (250 words). .

USC’s second prompt is optional and won’t apply to most students. However, if you do have a gap in your educational history, then be sure to use this space to address it. Give a brief explanation of the reasoning for the gap—be it illness, a move, etc.—as well as an overview of how you spent this time outside of school. 

For example, let’s say your family moved across the country and you took a term off during the transfer. You can describe your role in the move (perhaps you were in charge of organizing a yard sale), why the circumstances warranted an educational gap (maybe the new school doesn’t allow mid-term transfers), and any other projects or commitments to which you dedicated your time. 

Ideally, you want to demonstrate how you made the most of this time off and why the time off was necessary.

Short Answer Prompts

Required: respond to all the prompts below (100 characters unless otherwise specified), 1. describe yourself in three words (25 characters each), 2. what is your favorite snack, 3. best movie of all time, 4. dream job, 5. if your life had a theme song, what would it be, 6. dream trip, 7. what tv show will you binge watch next, 8. which well-known person or fictional character would be your ideal roommate, 9. favorite book, 10. if you could teach a class on any topic, what would it be.

In this section, USC lets you have a little fun. The questions ask for short, rapid-fire responses that give you the opportunity to let your individuality shine.

The most important thing to keep in mind with the short answer supplements is that USC is asking you to provide new information that sheds light on different aspects of your personality. 

Don’t repeat tidbits you’ve already mentioned, although you can and should develop new angles of themes you’ve already established. Most importantly, have fun in this section! If you’re having fun writing it, chances are your admissions officer will have fun reading it.

You can leave descriptions or notes in your responses, though remember that you have 100 characters max. If your choices are more offbeat, we recommend giving a brief description, as your admissions officer certainly won’t have the time to look things up. If your choices are pretty well-known, you can still leave a note about why you chose them (as in the sample response to #8). It’s another opportunity to share your personality, which is valuable!

• Describe yourself in three words (25 characters max each).

Example: Cinephile. Cynophile. Logophile. 

Tip: Be creative!

Example: My Gram’s Lebuchken, tiny gingerbread-esque German cakes that my family devours each holiday season.

Tip: This is an opportunity to show your roots or quirky favorites. Make your response more interactive by including descriptive words that appeal to the senses, especially taste and smell. Also, if you’re using another language or describing a less common food, feel free to provide a short description or explanation so that someone who’s never heard of it before can still imagine it. 

Example: October Sky; Homer’s rockets remind me of my own homemade science creations, like my DIY lava lamp.

Tip: A lot of applicants will write Harry Potter . Be genuine in your response, but take this opportunity to stand out rather than providing a generic answer. 

Example: A math professor; sharing my love of topology to positively shape students’ view of the subject. 

Example: Crossword Puzzle Writer; my mornings aren’t complete without a cup of OJ and my daily brain teaser.

Tip: If you go with a serious answer, make a clear connection to your major to show that you’re focused on your academic path. Don’t give a generic answer like “doctor” or “lawyer;” talk about what specialty or subfield interests you most. That said, you could also go for a more lighthearted answer, like a crossword puzzle writer, to use the space to show personality.

Example: The [TV show] Intro; I’d like to think of myself as a [character], but I have to admit I’m more of an [character]. 

Example: Happy Birthday by AJR – a catchy tune with funny/sarcastic lyrics about the reality of modern life.

Tip: Just as with the best movie prompt, you may want to avoid mainstream selections and instead put forward a title that says something about you. What song would you want the admissions officer to play while reading your application? Make sure the song you choose is appropriate. 

Example: Road trip around Iceland’s perimeter; stops include Thingvellir National Park and the Geysir Springs.

Tip: Be more specific than simply “Hawaii” or “Europe.” Also, just as with all the prompts, you want to convey something about yourself in your response, so avoid mainstream or overly luxurious answers.

Example: Aggretsuko (anime about a red panda who relieves job stress by singing death metal at karaoke bars)

Tip: Follow similar guidelines to the theme song prompt—mainstream selections are fine and are potentially relatable to the reader, but that quirkier show you have your eye on might make for a more fun response. If your selection is lesser-known, consider adding a brief description.

Example: Rory Gilmore – there definitely won’t be a shortage of coffee or good conversation.

Tip: It’s okay to go with a more well-known character here, since that will allow the reader to relate. It’s just important to use that extra space to elaborate on why you’d want to live with this person.

• Favorite book

Example: Shoe Dog by Phil Knight – I read the entire book in my favorite pair of Air Max 97s.

Tip: Follow the same advice for best movie of all time.

Example: SETI: Using the Drake Equation to Find E.T., complete with a field trip to outer space!

Tip: You can have some fun with this prompt; try thinking outside the box of the generic “Intro to Calculus.” You can also have the class relate back to your intended major, though that’s not absolutely necessary.

Viterbi School of Engineering Prompt

The student body at the usc viterbi school of engineering is a diverse group of unique engineers and computer scientists who work together to engineer a better world for all humanity. describe how your contributions to the usc viterbi student body may be distinct from others. please feel free to touch on any part of your background, traits, skills, experiences, challenges, and/or personality in helping us better understand you. (250 words).

USC’s engineering school is extremely competitive to get into, forcing admissions officers to choose between many qualified applicants who look relatively similar on paper. This essay wants to get down to the heart of why they should pick you over others. 

The most important word in this prompt that should job out to you is “contributions”. In this essay, you need to convey what you will bring to the engineering community that is unique. You might be saying to yourself “what can I contribute to an established university?”, but there’s actually a lot to work with here. The prompt gives suggestions of sources that could contribute to your uniqueness so let’s look at some examples of traits and how they relate to contribution to USC.

Trait: You’re from a coastal town in Florida that is experiencing flooding.

Contribution: You plan to join the Structures and Material Lab in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering to discover which materials are erosion-resistant.

Trait: You’re the only daughter among four brothers.

Contribution: Since you’re no stranger to asserting your voice as a woman in a male-dominated setting, you want to become a mentor through the Women in Science and Engineering’s Young Researchers Program and encourage female high schoolers to pursue STEM.

Trait: You have OCD.

Contribution: Rather than being a hindrance, you channel your obsessive tendencies into meticulously completing complex calculations which you are excited to do as an Aerospace Engineering major.

Trait: You started an iPhone repair business out of your garage in high school.

Contribution: Your experience working with technology has given you insight into specific aspects of hardware design that could be improved that you plan to experiment with under the supervision of X professor.

As you can see from these examples, there are many ways to approach what you can contribute to the Viterbi community. When it comes to actually writing this in your essay, you should start by highlighting the unique aspect of yourself that you are choosing to focus on with a short anecdote. For example, the student writing about being from a coastal town might open with a vivid description of the damage caused by erosion from the most recent flood.

Once you’ve caught the reader’s attention and communicated what your unique background is, explain how that has positioned you to bring something special to the USC community. It’s important to be as detailed as possible by including specific programs or institutes, professors, classes, or research projects you are interested in. You can also mention more than one way that you will contribute—just ensure that each one is fully fleshed out.

Finally, end your essay with a concise conclusion. This might look like returning back to your anecdote from the beginning, talking about your future plans and how USC will get you there, or something else entirely. 

Engineering and Computer Science Prompt

The national academy of engineering (nae) and their 14 grand challenges go hand-in-hand with our vision to engineer a better world for all humanity. engineers and computer scientists are challenged to solve these problems in order to improve life on the planet. learn more about the nae grand challenges at http://engineeringchallenges.org and tell us which challenge is most important to you, and why. (250 words).

Before you can start answering this prompt, you need to do a little research! Once you go to the website linked above, click on the Challenges button at the top of the page and it will take you to the 14 Grand Challenges that engineers across the globe are committed to addressing. These challenges are broken up into four categorical themes (Sustainability, Health, Security, and Joy of Living) and they range from providing access to clean water to improving urban infrastructure to engineering better medicines to preventing nuclear terror attacks.

Your job is to pick one of these challenges that speaks the most to you. Keep in mind, we didn’t say pick the challenge you think is the “trendiest” or the admissions officers would be most impressed by; in order to write a successful and engaging essay your genuine passion and fascination with the issue has to come through. 

Once you have a challenge in mind, now you have to connect it to you. This is where you will bring in your previous experiences, your academic interests, and personal anecdotes to demonstrate why that particular issue resonates with you. For example, maybe you picked Manage the Nitrogen Cycle because your favorite memories from when you were little were gardening with your grandma which started your fascination with how plants sustain themselves and interact with the environment.

It’s important to connect to the challenge with both past experiences and future goals. So, continuing the nitrogen cycle example, maybe your dream one day is to own your own farm that is pesticide-free, so you are passionate about engineering nitrogen-free fertilizers. They don’t all have to be this personal—it’s just as valid to say you are committed to providing clean water because you dream of a world where no one is denied basic human rights like water—but you should have some explanation of the impact overcoming one of these challenges would have on you and the broader community. This helps demonstrate to the admissions officers that you appreciate the weight of these issues.

One thing to remember that trips up some students: you aren’t asked to solve the challenge in this essay. Although you can definitely contribute ideas you have, especially if you have previous experiences that relate to addressing the issue, it’s not required. The major point of this essay is to learn more about global issues you care about and why you are choosing to address them through an engineering perspective.

Dornsife Prompt (Required)

Many of us have at least one issue or passion that we care deeply about — a topic on which we would love to share our opinions and insights in hopes of sparking intense interest and continued conversation. if you had ten minutes and the attention of a million people, what would your talk be about (250 words).

This prompt requires less deep thought than the former. The “education” prompt asks students to think deeply about a question they have probably never thought about before, while this prompt asks you “what are you thinking about all the time?”  

If an idea comes to mind when you first read this prompt, that’s probably where you should start. USC is not looking for wild answers where students turn the holes in swiss cheese into a complex metaphor—they really just want to hear what you care about. That being said, what you care about can totally be weird or nuanced, as long as your interest in the subject tells admissions officers something about you.

Some examples of how you could work this prompt:

• Writing about a social justice issue. Introducing a specific anecdote (that you would introduce during your hypothetical talk). Providing insightful and unique commentary on the issue—whether that be how we got here or where we should go from here.
• Writing about a school of thought in science or philosophy. Explaining the importance of certain types of questions. Giving specific examples (historical, fictional, and anecdotal) that show that you have thought through the importance of rationalism, taoism, sensationalism, or any other school.
• Writing about a lecture on a specific book. Discussing how White Teeth, Giovanni’s Room, or Moby Dick tells multiple important life lessons in one pretty package. Drawing connections between the fictional world and the real world.
• Writing about the valuable lessons that can be learned from another culture. Introducing stories from your past that show the value of Japanese respect, Persian hospitality, or Indian selflessness. Recognizing negative aspects of cultures, but recognizing the lessons that can be learned when you take the time to learn them.

While these are just some examples, this prompt leaves the door open for you to explore whatever you care about. Because this essay is the simpler option, make sure that your writing is impeccable if you choose this second prompt. Engage with anecdotes and a unique personal voice to keep your essay engaging. Don’t give the reader the option to stop reading!

Where to Get Your USC Essays Edited for Free

Do you want feedback on your USC essays? After rereading your essays countless times, it can be difficult to evaluate your writing objectively. That’s why we created our free Peer Essay Review tool , where you can get a free review of your essay from another student. You can also improve your own writing skills by reviewing other students’ essays. 

If you want a college admissions expert to review your essay, advisors on CollegeVine have helped students refine their writing and submit successful applications to top schools. Find the right advisor for you to improve your chances of getting into your dream school!

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Frank Rothman Scholars - Juris Doctor (JD)

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Each year, USC Gould awards the Frank Rothman Scholarship to an outstanding incoming student.

The scholarship provides:

• full-tuition guaranteed for three years (estimated at roughly $220,000)
• an additional $6,000 stipend each year
• a guaranteed, paid, first-year summer fellowship at one of the world's top law firms, Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom in Los Angeles

Regular decision applicants to USC Gould School of Law are welcome to apply for the Frank Rothman Scholarship. To be considered, you must submit an additional statement (look for the prompt in the admission application) and complete your law school application by the February 1 priority deadline. If you plan to apply for the 3+3 accelerated Bachelors/JD program or our early decision program, you are not eligible.

We take a holistic approach to choosing our Rothman Scholars, with selection criteria including strong academic indicators (LSAT and undergraduate cumulative GPA) and other factors from the application that make the recipient stand out.

Frank Rothman, JD 1951: A Legal Legend

The scholarship honors the late Frank Rothman '51, one of the nation's most respected sports and entertainment lawyers. His clients included the National Football League, the Professional Golfers Association, Warner Bros., Walt Disney Co., Paramount Pictures and 20th Century Fox. He also served as chairman and CEO of MGM/UA studios from 1982 to 1986. In later years, he worked as an antitrust specialist and partner in the Los Angeles office of Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom, where Rothman Scholars perform their fellowships.

Called a legendary litigator by the  National Law Journal  and often included on that publication's list of the country's 100 most influential lawyers, Rothman was admired and respected by colleagues, judges and courtroom opponents. He was especially beloved at USC Gould, where he maintained close personal friendships and advised the school's administration as a member and chair of the Board of Councilors.

Steve Rothman, Frank's son, says the scholarship pays tribute to his father's lifelong devotion to USC Gould and serves as a reminder to others of his father's remarkable legacy. "My father always asked that we do the very best we are capable of," Steve Rothman says. "That is what this scholarship is intended to reflect."

The Rothman Scholars

Frank Rothman was known for his influence in the halls of corporate America and across the entertainment and sports industries. He infused his practice of law with a spirit of always doing the very best he was capable of. One Frank Rothman Scholar is selected each year to continue that legacy. The successful applicant will be selected based upon strong academic indicators including LSAT score, undergraduate cumulative GPA across a rigorous course selection, and writing ability. In addition, past recipients successfully conveyed the ideals of Frank Rothman via extra-curricular accomplishments such as running a successful business, inventing useful devices, engaging in cutting edge medical research, and publishing books and articles. Many Frank Rothman Scholars have gone on to become successful lawyers, and business entrepreneurs.

2022 Rothman Scholar

2021 Rothman Scholar

2020 Rothman Scholar

2019 Rothman Scholar

2018 Rothman Scholar

2017 Rothman Scholar

2016 Rothman Scholar

2015 Rothman Scholar

2014 Rothman Scholar

2013 Rothman Scholar

2012 Rothman Scholar

2010 Rothman Scholar

2009 Rothman Scholar

2008 Rothman Scholar

2007 Rothman Scholar

2006 Rothman Scholar

2005 Rothman Scholar

2004 Rothman Scholar

2003 Rothman Scholar

2002 Rothman Scholar

USC Gould School of Law 699 Exposition Boulevard Los Angeles, California 90089-0071 213-740-7331

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First-Generation Scholarship

Location: United States Experience Type: Job & Internship Experiences / Scholarships

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This scholarship supports first-generation students looking to gain experience to complement their academic coursework. Students will be selected through an application and interview process. All internships must be a minimum of six weeks during the summer. An award of $2,500 will be given to selected students.

Student Testimonials

“As an summer intern at the Alliance for Children’s Rights, it further motivated me to better represent and advocate for underprivileged and disadvantaged/minority individuals who are often silenced by the legal system. This experience enhanced my knowledge and skills to help progress other communities. I was in the direct position of creating significant change within the foster care system. I know that I will forever carry this life-learning knowledge to create impactful change for underrepresented communities throughout the rest of my career in public service. I am confident that this valuable internship experience will guide me towards making an impact within the world.” -Carol, Major: Political Science, Class of 2021

“This summer, I interned at St. Joseph Hospital. The opportunity became a stepping stone to gain more hands-on experience, but it also brought my passion for medicine to fruition. I shadowed the psychiatrists and observed firsthand the process of the treatments for those struggling with various mental diseases. The internship allowed me to build lasting networks with the physicians and nurses, connect with patients through their background and ailments, and witness the events of the pandemic unfold before my very eyes. As a result, this experience instigated a renewed passion and dedication towards my career goals of becoming a physician. The overall experience truly opened my eyes to the impact of medicine and jump started my journey to discover what becoming a physician really meant to me with a stronger mindset.” -Trang, Major: Neuroscience, Class of 2022

In collaboration with our First-Generation Mentor Program and campus partners, we are excited to offer this scholarship to first-generation students who secure unpaid summer internships. This initiative supports students looking to gain hands-on experience. Students will “test drive” a career field and enhance their professionalism through a career-oriented internship opportunity.

Application Process

All application materials must be received by 11:59 pm PST on April 10, 2024.

Please complete a two-step application process:

• Complete an  Online Application through USC’s Scholarship Universe platform
• Current Resume
• STARS Report (Available on OASIS)
• Personal Essay: a one-page, single spaced (one-inch margins) narrative explaining your current academic program, why you are interested in the USC First-Generation Scholarship, and how you think this Summer 2024 internship experience will enhance your undergraduate experience and have an impact on your future. Essay must be typed in no smaller than 10-point font.
• Copy of your internship job description from your organization or supervisor
• Sample budget for how the scholarship will be utilized

Selection Process

Students will be selected based on their application and are expected to demonstrate strong written and verbal communication skills.

Contact us   if you need assistance finding an internship.

Experience Information

College Entrance Exams

The sat, act and sat subject tests, our scholars learn how to succeed at competitive schools.

We invite you to be involved in the process.

With our expert admissions assistance, we will walk your child through each question of a college application and let them know what admissions committees are indirectly asking. We will help your child showcase their personal achievements in a way that optimizes their strengths and resonates with the selection committee.

Application Timeline

• FEBRUARY-MARCH
• Students should register for the SAT or ACT exam if they have not done so already.
• Students applying for Early Action and Early Decision must submit their applications. The EA/ED deadline for most colleges is November 1.
• If needed, students must register for the December SAT or ACT by early November; for most colleges, these are the last test scores that will be considered.
• Students who submit the USC application by November 1st will be automatically considered for USC scholarships .
• University of California and Cal State University applications are due by November 30.
• Many top-tier universities and selective colleges will have Regular Decision application deadlines as early as December 1st. Students should be preparing to submit.
• Check the university website for the Early Action and Early Decision notification dates for the upcoming academic year. Students are usually notified mid-December.
• Although most students will have completed their college applications by January, they must maintain their grades throughout their senior year. Colleges can revoke the admission of any student, even after being accepted
• Acceptance letters and financial aid offers will start to arrive. Review acceptances, compare financial aid packages, and visit your child’s final choices, if possible.
• When your child has made their college decision, they must submit their statement of intent to register and make a deposit to the college they will attend by May 1. If the student has been offered financial aid, they must accept the offer and follow the instructions given. Students should also notify schools they will not attend.
• Your child should check  their student portal on the college website regularly to submit any required documents to their college.
• Colleges host spring admit weekends on campus in April. Students have the opportunity to visit the schools they’ve been admitted to and make a more informed decision about which college to attend.

Be involved.  Even if you haven’t attended college yourself, the college application process is something that you can learn about together.

How to choose the right colleges for your student:

When considering which colleges and universities to apply to, we encourage our scholars to consider what is the best match and fit for them.

How do you know if a college is a match for your child?

Certain college qualities are universal. Every parent and student should have similar expectations about what defines a match college, such as:

• Strong graduation rate – in comparison to other options, across subgroups
• Affordability – both tuition and cost of living
• Admissibility – given grades and test scores, the student has a reasonable chance of getting in
• Special transition/success programs that facilitate completion for low-income, first-generation students

How do you know if a college is a good fit for your child?

Some college qualities are specific to each student’s preferences, such as:

• The majors offered
• The personality of the student body

When assessing a school, match is always priority #1

Students need to know a college is a match before it’s useful to consider whether it’s a fit. this greatly increases the likelihood that you are exploring affordable and supportive schools., college planning tools for parents & students, helping your scholar plan for college.

parents.collegeboard.org This website is for parents, guardians, relatives, and other adults helping a student plan for college. Sign up for free to receive emails and texts with college info, advice, and reminders. En Español: padres.collegeboard.org

collegescorecard.ed.gov The College Scorecard is an interactive college search tool created with direct input from students, families, and their advisers. The College Scorecard is primarily designed for students and families, so the data are presented in an easy-to-understand graphical format.

www.collegedata.com Parents and students can sign up for free on CollegeData to explore colleges to find the right match and fit university for the student. CollegeData provides admissions, financial, academic, campus life, and student information on thousands of colleges nationwide.

Graduation Rates

www.collegeresults.org College Results Online (CRO) is an interactive, user-friendly Web tool designed to provide parents, policymakers, counselors, students, and others with information about college graduation rates for nearly any four-year college or university in the country.

Affordability

bigfuture.collegeboard.org Big Future offers a variety of financial aid tools and calculators. For example, the Net Price Calculator will estimate the costs for undergraduate tuition and expenses at an individual college, as well as their potential eligibility for need-based financial aid based on individual circumstances.

www.collegedata.com Worried about the cost of college? Most parents and students are. Many families underestimate their eligibility for financial aid. Get the facts on college financial aid, including financial aid eligibility, how to apply for financial aid, how to get the most financial aid, and how to analyze financial aid awards.

College graduation rates

The College Scorecard’s school comparison tool lets you compare colleges by graduation rate, cost, financial aid, acceptance rate and more.

Get to Know Each School

There are a number of sites and resources to help you and your student gather college information:

College Websites

College visit & information session, collegedata & the college board, average net price by household income.

Net Price Calculators will allow you to estimate the true cost of your student’s college education based on your own family income.

Source: https://www.collegetransions.com/net-price-by-institution College Transitions | Created with Datawrapper

College Admissions Tests

Most colleges will consider college admissions test scores when deciding whether or not to admit students. Higher test scores often correlate to earning merit-based scholarships and higher admission rates. However, admissions officers will give the most weight and importance to your student’s high school grades and whether they are challenging themselves academically.

USC Bovard Scholars Personalized Test Preparation

We offer the highest quality, personalized test preparation tailored to your child’s focus areas. Our scholars take numerous practice exams that simulate the real thing, helping your child build confidence and understand what to expect. At the completion of our program, our scholars will have reached their personal best score.

What Are College Admissions Tests?

You may know college admission tests by name — the SAT, SAT Subject Tests and the ACT. These tests are designed to help colleges evaluate how ready your child is for college-level work.

When Should Your Student Take the Test?

Most high school students take the ACT or SAT, or both during the spring of their junior year or fall of their senior year. It’s important to leave time to retake the test if they want to raise their score before they apply to college.

• To learn about SAT exam registration and test dates, visit the CollegeBoard .
• To learn about ACT exam registration and test dates, visit the ACT website .

Paying For the Test

The SAT and ACT both offer fee waivers to eligible students — meaning that your child will not have to pay anything for their exams. All Bovard Scholars students will be provided with an exam fee waiver during their summer residency at USC.

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Graduate Scholarships

The following scholarships provide partial to full tuition support to students enrolled in the Price School’s academic degree programs or are USC affiliated scholarships that are campus wide. While some of these scholarships are designated to students enrolled in a particular program or with career interests in a specific field, others are open to students from any field/degree offered in the Price School. Our scholarships are open to domestic, international, and undocumented students unless noted otherwise. Descriptions of each award are listed below.

Interested in finding more scholarships? Subscribe to our scholarship newsletter to be notified of USC and outside scholarship opportunities each month!

Want to learn more about our scholarships and how to finance a Price graduate education? Register to attend one of our financial aid webinars and get your questions answered!

If you have any questions, please contact our team at [email protected] .

What are you looking for?

Suggested search, scholarship descriptions.

USC Dornsife Continuing Student Scholarships are a collection of many privately-funded scholarships administered and distributed by USC Dornsife. Individual scholarships may have different requirements, including varying minimum GPA, financial need, specific majors, or geographic restrictions. Most scholarships, however, are quite general, and you will be considered for all for which you qualify.

A few Continuing Student Scholarships have applications which are processed separately from our common CSS online application. Links to these applications are available on the Other Scholarship Applications page .

Apply for the following scholarships using the online Dornsife Continuing Student Scholarship application .

Scholarships requiring supplemental essays

All scholarship applicants must address the two standard personal statement prompts listed on the Dornsife Continuing Student Scholarship application page . The following scholarships require completion of an additional supplemental essay which should be submitted via the online Dornsife Continuing Student Scholarship application.

Established to support undergraduate and graduate students majoring in the natural sciences who have demonstrated a commitment to work with the Hungarian community.

• GPA of 3.0 or higher
• Preference given to students who foster cooperation between USC and individuals and/or institutions with Hungarian affiliation

Additional supplemental essay prompt:

Given the focus of this scholarship, please discuss how you have shown a commitment to fostering cooperation between USC and individuals and/or institutions with Hungarian affiliation.

Established to support undergraduate students who have demonstrated a commitment to children’s health issues.

• Preference given to students who have overcome a childhood medical or health issue and/or demonstrate a commitment to children’s health issues, such as infant birth defect research or children’s hospital volunteer service

Given the focus of this scholarship on children’s health, please discuss how you have responded to the challenges of a childhood health issue and/or describe the ways in which you have shown a vested commitment to children’s health issues.

Established in memory of Jason Baringer, a student who suffered from muscular dystrophy and attended USC until January 2001. The scholarship provides financial support to USC Dornsife students with physical disabilities.

• Financial need
• The determination and passion to succeed despite numerous challenges

Please discuss how your physical disability or challenges have influenced your academic and career goals.

Established for undergraduate International Relations majors who demonstrate a commitment to social and/or cultural innovation and problem-solving outside their coursework.

• International Relations major
• Preference given to students participating in internships with non-profit organizations, cross-disciplinary research, service, and/or extracurricular activities with a particular focus on the arts, technology, and media. All activities should address and seek solutions for global challenges that have an impact on people across the world.

The scholarship donor believes in the value of activities outside the classroom (including, but not limited to, internships, research, and service activities) that seek solutions to global challenges of all sorts. With this in mind, please discuss how your activities outside the classroom demonstrate your commitment to social and/or cultural innovation and problem-solving and show how your Berger Scholarship opportunity will further develop this commitment. Please also address the connection between your classroom lessons and your activities outside the classroom.

Established by George F. Davis, a USC alumnus, to provide annual merit-based scholarships to students majoring in Comparative Literature whose area of study is French or Russian literature.

• Comparative Literature major studying French or Russian literature

Please discuss how your experience as a Comparative Literature major has inspired you, personally and intellectually. Please include references to your work in French and/or Russian. These could include courses taken, language study undergone, research projects completed or in progress, or other experiences related to your work in these languages.

Established for undergraduate students who demonstrate financial need and a commitment to social responsibility, kindness, and compassion toward others and to making a difference through leadership and service.

• Community service
• Preference given to first-generation college students

The Do Good Things award seeks to recognize students who are active leaders and selfless volunteers. With this in mind, please address how you exemplify the ideals of this award through your activities and involvement. Describe ways in which you’ve improved your community and given back to serve the greater good, and how you hope to make a difference after you graduate from USC Dornsife. How has attending college given you the tools, skills, and knowledge to “do good things,” both in the present and in looking ahead toward your future goals?

Supports rising junior or senior undergraduate students at USC Dornsife who possess a deep sense of belief and faith in their spiritual growth.

• GPA of 3.3 or higher
• Rising junior or senior

Describe how your faith or beliefs have helped you grow and respond to challenges, or how your faith or beliefs have helped guide your career plans.

Established by USC alumna Roberta Persinger Foulke (BA/MA History, 1936) to provide assistance for students who demonstrate the ability or desire to further the interests of women in the field of history or historical studies.

• Major or minor in a History department course of study
• Preference given to students with financial need
• Please note: If you are looking for the application for the Foulke Research and Travel Grant, click here . The Foulke Research and Travel Grant requires a separate application.

Please discuss how your undergraduate experience majoring or minoring in a History department course of study has altered the way you think about the world around you.

Established in 1988 by members of the Kalpakian family as a memorial to their parents, Harry and Helen Kalpakian, this scholarship is awarded to students who demonstrate the ability or desire to further the interests of individuals of Armenian descent in liberal arts education.

• GPA of 3.2 or higher
• Sophomore standing or higher
• Given to students who demonstrate the ability or desire to further the interests of individuals of Armenian descent in the fields of humanities, natural sciences, or social sciences

Please discuss how your contributions to the Armenian community, coupled with your studies in the humanities, natural sciences, or social sciences at USC, have shaped your academic or professional aspirations for life after undergraduate studies.

Supports undergraduate students majoring in French for whom affordability may be an obstacle.

• French major

Please discuss how your experience as a French major has inspired you, personally and intellectually, and describe how your work in French and Francophone studies will contribute to your future goals. If you have plans to study or work abroad, please elaborate.

Supports undergraduate students majoring or minoring in the social sciences at USC Dornsife who demonstrate a vested interest in and commitment to women’s issues and women’s rights.

• Major or minor in the social sciences
• Positive consideration given to students from Los Angeles County

The Social Sciences Community Leadership Scholarship recognizes students who demonstrate a strong interest in and commitment to women’s issues and women’s rights. With this in mind, please address how you exemplify the ideals of this award through your activities, involvement, and future goals.

Established in 1999 by the Stahl Memorial Trust, this scholarship benefits students studying Biochemistry.

• Biochemistry or Chemical Biology major

Please describe your background, academic goals, research experience, career objectives, and future plans in the area of biochemistry, chemical biology, or biological chemistry.

Provides support to students who have the mission of studying to explore fundamental questions about who we are, how the world works, and what we can do on the ground to improve and enrich society.

Given the donor’s intent to support students who have the mission of studying to explore fundamental questions about who we are, how the world works, and what we can do on the ground to improve and enrich society, please discuss the experiences, interests, or goals that would make you a good fit for this scholarship award.

Established in the early 1900’s by Carrie D. and C.J. Walker, this scholarship benefits USC Dornsife students studying religion.

• Cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher
• GPA of 3.5 or higher in Religion coursework
• Religion major or minor
• Please note: If you are looking for the application for the Walker Research and Travel Grant, click here . The Walker Research and Travel Grant requires a separate application.

Additional supplemental essay:

In lieu of submitting a supplemental essay for consideration for the Walker Merit Award, please send us a copy of what you consider to be your best essay written for a Religion course at USC. Please include your name and the essay topic or prompt at the top of your essay submission. If desired, the essay may be edited and polished from the version you submitted for your Religion course. The essay should be emailed directly to  [email protected] by the scholarship application deadline, with the title “Walker Merit Award” in the subject line. It should not be submitted via the supplemental essay text box on the Dornsife Continuing Student Scholarship application form.

Established in 1994 by Anita Brown Wilson for outstanding students in the Environmental Studies program.

• GPA of 3.25 or higher (both USC cumulative GPA and major GPA)
• Environmental Studies major or Environmental Science and Health major
• Completion of or acceptance into at least one of the following courses: ENST 320a, ENST 320a in the field, ENST 480, ENST 485, or ENST 499 (Tropical Coastal Zone Sustainability in the Caribbean)

Describe an environmental and/or policy issue that you want to address or tackle in your career. How does this issue fit into the larger global environment, and how would this scholarship help you begin to address this concern?

Established by Wendy Wu to provide financial support to USC Dornsife undergraduate students.

• Preference given to: (1) students who attended a high school in Guam, and (2) students who self-identify as being impacted by the causes and effects of global conflict, particularly those affected by the Ukrainian war

The donor for this scholarship is interested in supporting both students who attended high school in Guam or students who have been impacted by the causes and effects of global conflict (for example, the war in Ukraine). With this in mind, please discuss the background or experiences that would make you a good fit for this scholarship award.

All other scholarships

The following list of scholarships do not require a supplemental essay. However, remember that all scholarship applicants must address the two standard personal statement prompts listed on the Dornsife Continuing Student Scholarship application page .

Established to support undergraduate students intending to pursue a career in physical therapy.

• Pre-physical therapy pre-professional emphasis

Established to support students who have successfully completed two years toward their majors and have demonstrated financial need.

Provides support to undergraduate students in USC Dornsife for whom affordability may be an obstacle. Positive consideration given to students majoring in Economics, Mathematics, Political Science, or History.

• Economics, Mathematics, Political Science, or History major

Established in 1946.

Established by the Bitzer family to support promising undergraduate students in the humanities.

• Major in the humanities

Established by Albert and Tove Boyajian in 2007 to support students who demonstrate financial need.

Established in 1986, this scholarship benefits middle-income students in USC Dornsife.

• Preference given to students who are the first in their families to attend college and are from the eastern half of the United States

Provides merit and/or need-based scholarships to USC Dornsife students.

This scholarship is intended for a USC Dornsife undergraduate student who is “needy and worthy.”

Established to support talented undergraduate students in the USC Dornsife Department of Biological Sciences.

• Major in Biological Sciences, Human Biology, or Quantitative Biology

Established by James and Janie Crawford for USC Dornsife students who demonstrate financial need, extracurricular involvement, and involvement in community service.

• Extracurricular involvement

Supports deserving undergraduate students in the USC Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences who are pursuing a degree in biological sciences.

• Dornsife major in the department of Biological Sciences

Supports students for whom affordability might be an obstacle, with preference given to students interested in a career in teaching.

• Preference given to students who have demonstrated a desire to pursue a career in secondary education teaching

Supports talented and deserving undergraduate students in USC Dornsife.

• Strong academic performance

Created in 1987 by Albert Fisher in support of excellent undergraduate science majors who demonstrate financial need.

• Natural science major

Established to provide scholarship support to undergraduate Dornsife students on the basis of merit.

Established to provide scholarship support for students with majors in the School of International Relations on the basis of merit.

• Major in International Relations, International Relations (Global Business), International Relations and the Global Economy, or Intelligence and Cyber Operations

Provides support to USC Dornsife undergraduate students majoring in the sciences with the goal of attending medical school.

• Major in the natural sciences
• Pre-medical pre-professional emphasis
• Students of Jewish heritage are encouraged to apply

Established to honor Mr. Frank Martin Gleberman, a distinguished USC alumnus whose dedication to family, friends, and the community continues to impact and inspire individual lives.

• Proven commitment to the betterment of the community

Established by the Goel family to provide support to undergraduate students at USC Dornsife for whom affordability is an obstacle.

Established to provide scholarships for deserving undergraduate students at USC Dornsife, with preference given to students who are graduates of one of the college preparatory high schools administered by the Ednovate charter management organization.

• Preference shall be given to students who are graduates of one of the college preparatory high schools administered by the Ednovate charter management organization. Currently, these schools consist of Legacy College Prep, East College Prep, USC Hybrid High, Brio College Prep, Esperanza College Prep, and South Los Angeles College Prep

Established in 2005 by Professor Emeritus Dr. William Grings and his wife, Hilda Grings, in memory of their children Steven and Carol.

• Graduate of a Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) high school

Established in memory of Paul M. Halopoff to provide assistance for promising students who plan to attend medical school.

• Academic achievement

Established for USC Dornsife students who demonstrate financial need, extracurricular involvement, and involvement in community service.

Supports students in the Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences who are studying astronomy.

• Major or minor in Astronomy

Established to provide support for students for whom affordability may be an obstacle, and might not otherwise be able to attend the university.

Established with a bequest from the late Mrs. Ingram to assist worthy undergraduates pursuing an education in the Dana and David Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences.

Supports undergraduate students in Dornsife who have declared a pre-health pre-professional emphasis.

• Pre-health emphasis

This scholarship is awarded to students who demonstrate the ability or desire to further the interests of individuals of Armenian descent in liberal arts education.

Established by Philip P. and Colleen Kirst for outstanding USC Dornsife students. Academic excellence, campus involvement, and a proven commitment to the betterment of the community will be considered, as well as economic need.

• Campus involvement

Supports talented and deserving students at USC Dornsife for whom affordability is an obstacle.

First awarded in 1992, the Lenore Kreiger Scholarship provides support to students majoring in Mathematics.

• Mathematics major

First awarded in 1992, the Lenore Kreiger Scholarship provides support to students majoring in the natural sciences.

Established from the Betty Leach estate. Awarded to students who demonstrate the ability or desire to further the interests of women.

• Completion of two years of undergraduate study in USC Dornsife

Supports undergraduate students at USC Dornsife for whom affordability is an obstacle.

Established to provide support for a USC Dornsife student for whom affordability may be an obstacle.

• Preference given to students who are from the East Coast and/or are members of the USC Helenes
• Students of Hispanic or Latino/a heritage are encouraged to apply

Established in memory of Dr. Merten J. Mandeville for worthy undergraduate students majoring in Economics.

• Economics major
• Resident of Phoenix or Tucson

Established by Linda and Harlan Martens.

• Transfer student

Supports talented students in the Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences who are majoring or minoring in a European language other than English, with a preference given to German studies.

• Major or minor in a European language other than English

The Mayr Foundation assists deserving California students pursuing an education at one of California’s private colleges or universities.

• Preference given to students with a permanent residence in a city in California

Established in 2007 to provide support to undergraduate students in USC Dornsife who demonstrate academic achievement and financial need.

Established in 1992, this scholarship is awarded to financially disadvantaged students enrolled in USC Dornsife, with positive consideration given to students from Los Angeles.

• Positive consideration given to students from Los Angeles

Recognizes students who demonstrate academic excellence and a commitment to community involvement.

• Commitment to community service

Established to provide scholarship assistance to undergraduate middle-income students majoring in foreign languages.

• Middle-income
• Major in a foreign language

Established to provide support to undergraduate students from El Salvador, Guatemala, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, or Brazil.

• Preference given to students from El Salvador, Guatemala, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, or Brazil

Established to honor the life of Brian Mitchell, a distinguished USC alumnus whose dedication to family, friends, and the community continues to impact and inspire individual lives.

• Double major in the USC Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences and the Marshall School of Business -OR- USC Dornsife major with a minor in the Marshall School of Business

Established to support undergraduate students in USC Dornsife for whom affordability may be an obstacle.

Established to support undergraduate students studying Economics.

Scholarships to support middle-income students.

• Middle income

Provides scholarships to current undergraduate USC Dornsife students for whom affordability may be an obstacle.

Established in 1992 by the trustees of the Robert Glenn Rapp Foundation, these scholarships provide access to quality education to outstanding middle-income students.

Established to provide assistance for undergraduate students for whom affordability is an obstacle.

Established to provide support for undergraduate students for whom affordability may be an obstacle.

Provides support to USC Dornsife undergraduate students for whom affordability may be an obstacle.

• Positive consideration given to students from the greater Chicago, Illinois area

Established with a generous gift from Elaine and Graham Smith, this scholarship supports Dornsife students who demonstrate financial need, academic achievement and a proven commitment to the betterment of the community.

• Academic excellence

Established to provide scholarship support to undergraduate students majoring in Political Science at USC Dornsife.

• Political science major

Awarded to deserving undergraduate students at USC Dornsife, with preference to those who are first-generation college students.

• Preference given to students who are the first in their families to attend college

Awarded to deserving undergraduate students at USC Dornsife, with preference for those who are studying neuroscience.

• Preference given to students majoring in Neuroscience

Awarded to deserving undergraduate students at USC Dornsife, with preference to those who are studying anthropology.

• Preference given to students majoring in Anthropology

Established by William H. Tetteh-Martey to support USC Dornsife students enrolled in pre-health studies.

• Preference given to students pursuing pre-health studies

Awarded to outstanding students pursuing studies in the humanities who demonstrate financial need.

Established to provide scholarship support for students studying International Relations.

• Major in International Relations, International Relations (Global Business), or International Relations and the Global Economy
• Positive consideration given to students demonstrating leadership in the USC community

This scholarship supports undergraduate students majoring in USC Dornsife for whom affordability may be an obstacle.

• Preference given to students from the greater Chicago, Illinois area

Established by the Class of 1989 and family, friends and associates of the late Holly Wyatt Walter, this scholarship supports outstanding students who demonstrate a commitment to public service and need financial assistance.

Awarded to promising students with leadership potential from middle-income families.

• Leadership potential
• Preference given to History majors and/or students interested in education

Established by Mrs. Williams’ family. Benefits transfer students in the humanities.

• Awarded to a student who demonstrates the ability or desire to further the interests of women

Established to support undergraduate students in USC Dornsife with financial need.

• Preference given to first-generation college students from Texas

Established by Giselle and Darryl Wilson, this scholarship provides financial support to USC Dornsife undergraduate students with positive consideration given to students who self-identify as first-generation college students.

• Positive consideration given to students who self-identify as first-generation college students

Contact Details

If you have further questions, please contact our office. We’re happy to help!

USC Dornsife Admission and Student Success

• Dean of the Graduate School
• PhD Program Characteristics
• Graduate Events
• Graduate Degrees awarded at USC
• Fellowships
• Guidelines and Forms
• Student Resources
• Required Documents
• Submission Deadlines
• Guidelines to Submission
• Manuscript Formatting Guidelines
• Fellowships for PhD Students

Scholarships for Masters Students

• Academic Support, Professional Development and Diversity Inclusion Programs

Scholarships for Master’s and Professional Doctorate Students

Funding for students pursuing a master’s degree is coordinated by the student’s school or program.

In addition, the Graduate School and the Office of Academic Honors and Fellowships oversee a number of opportunities for master’s and professional doctorate students.  

There are also two opportunities for master’s and professional doctorate students available from the USC Graduate School:

Dr. Rodolfo Montes Scholarship

for USC master’s students in the School of Cinematic Arts, Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry, Gould School of Law, Keck School of Medicine, or the Price School of Public Policy. Scholarships, in the form of tuition assistance, are awarded to applicants who demonstrate a need for financial assistance, who have outstanding academic records and a history of community involvement. In accordance with the wishes of the donor, preference is given to candidates who exemplify leadership, or demonstrate a potential for leadership, within the local Hispanic community. Applications are accepted annually in the spring semester. Interested students should reach out to staff in their schools for information on how to be nominated.

Rockwell Dennis Hunt Scholastic Award

honors USC graduate students whose undergraduate degree is from USC. Applications are available annually in November. Candidates must meet the following criteria:

• have earned a bachelor’s degree at USC within five years of the time of application
• have completed at least three years of undergraduate work at USC;
• be currently working towards a master’s degree or doctorate at the University of Southern California.

• Year By Year Timeline
• Applicant Resources
• Request an Appointment

Academic Achievement Award

• Africa Student Fund
• Schaeffer Fellows in Government Service
• Micro-Seminars
• Research and Fellowships Week
• Undergraduate Writers’ Conference
• Undergraduate Symposium
• Scholar Distinctions
• Valedictorian and Salutatorian
• Astronaut Scholarship
• Boren Scholarship
• Churchill Scholarship
• CSPC Fellows Program
• Fulbright U.S. Student Program
• Goldwater Scholarship
• Truman Scholarship
• Marshall Scholarship
• Mitchell Scholarship
• Rhodes Scholarship
• Fellowship Recipients
• Events, Important Dates & Deadlines
• News & Announcements
• USC Undergraduate Education

The Academic Achievement Award (AAA) provides a tuition benefit to students who are pursuing multiple undergraduate degree objectives, have at least 24 units completed at USC (12 units for transfers), and have earned a cumulative USC GPA of at least 3.750. AAA allows for fall and spring registration of up to 21 units at the standard full-time tuition rate.

The purpose of the award is to allow highly motivated students with excellent academic records to complete multiple undergraduate degree objectives without adding to their time-to-degree.

Eligibility

In order to receive the Academic Achievement Award, students must:

• Be an undergraduate student
• Multiple undergraduate degree objectives must be officially declared on STARS report at time of application. Progressive degrees are not eligible for funding.
• Eligibility is based on cumulative GPA and unit count at the time of application.
• No eligibility exceptions are made for applicants below the 3.750 cumulative USC GPA minimum. USC GPA is calculated to the third decimal place and never rounded up or down.
• Units earned through AP or IB credit do NOT count towards the unit total. Only units earned through USC coursework is considered.
• All enrolled courses must fulfill major, minor, or GE requirements. See Special Courses for exceptions.
• Students must upload a current Academic Course Plan, developed and approved by their academic advisor to demonstrate feasibility of completing multiple degree objectives.
• Students must be officially enrolled in all proposed courses at time of application. If enrollment requires special clearance, students can provide faculty or advisor documentation indicating their acceptance into the course.
• Courses must be taken for Letter Grade or Pass/No Pass. Courses cannot be audited.
• Applicants pursuing graduate level coursework must demonstrate the course can be applied to undergraduate degree requirements and must retain undergraduate status.
• Complete the online application

Dates & Deadlines

Fall 2024 Academic Achievement Award -Round 1 Deadline

Fall 2024 academic achievement award -final deadline.

View More…

Application Timeline

AAA applications are reviewed on a  rolling basis  through the final deadline. Students will be notified of their award status based on the deadline by which they submit an application.

Students should only apply for AAA once they have finalized their scheduled and enrolled in over 18 units and billed for additional tuition.  Students who apply by the Round 1 Deadline will be notified of their award status and have their student accounts credited before the August payment due date.

• Note: Web Registration does not allow enrollment of over 20 units without prior authorization from an academic advisor. Students intending to enroll in 21 units must contact their advisor first.

Students who are unable to fully complete their registration until the start of the Fall semester should wait to submit an application by the Round 2 Deadline. We will not review applications for students enrolled in 18 units or below.  Students may apply at any time before the final deadline at no disadvantage; all applicants will receive an equal chance for award consideration.

[Fall 2024 Application Opens] Thursday, March 28, 2024

[Round 1 Deadline] Sunday, June 23, 2024 (Notification of award status by July 3, 2024) *

[Round 2 Deadline – Final] Friday, September 6, 2024 (Notification of award status by September 12, 2024) *

*Notification dates subject to change

Award Details

Application periods.

• GPA and Units

Degree Objectives

• Coursework Exceptions
• Changes & Withdrawals

AAA is available for fall and spring funding only. Students must apply each semester for the award to ensure they continue to meet all eligibility requirements. Students must register in over 18 units before applying.

Disbursement of Funding

Students who apply by the first deadline will receive the funding in their account before the first installment payment is due. Students applying by the final deadline will have their award posted no later than the end of Week 4 in the given term. These students should expect to pay for their additional units upfront until a credit can be applied to their account.

GPA and Unit Requirements

To meet eligibility, students must have at least a 3.75 USC GPA and earned at least 24 USC units (12 units for transfers)

Students who are just under the 3.75 cumulative USC GPA must wait until their current semester’s grades are included to ensure eligibility. If you apply while your cumulative GPA is below the 3.75 minimum, your application will not be approved. There are no exceptions to the GPA or unit requirement.

Number of Units Awarded

AAA is intended to assist students in enrolling up to 21 units. No more than 3 units of undergraduate tuition credit will be awarded to a student in a given term. Cost of additional units will be charged to your bursar account.

To meet eligibility, students must be in pursuit of multiple degree objectives at the undergraduate level (e.g. double major or major + minor). Progressive Degrees and other graduate programs do not qualify for AAA funding.

Applicants must have at least two undergraduate programs officially declared on their STARS report at the time of application.

Generally, AAA funding is approved for students who are enrolled in courses that fulfill major, minor, or general education requirements. Audited coursework is not eligible for AAA funding. All courses must be taken for Letter Grade or Pass/No Pass.

Certain courses do not satisfy degree requirements but have been approved for AAA usage because they satisfy prerequisites or provide specific academic benefits. Exceptions may also be considered for students who are within 2 semesters of graduating and have fulfilled all other degree requirements.

Appeals may be considered for other courses on a case-by-case basis. To submit a course appeal, you must provide verification from your academic advisor and/or faculty mentor as part of your AAA application.

General exceptions include:

• 490x Directed Research
• Foreign Language
• Honors Colloquiums
• Maymesters and Julymesters
• Physical Education (only approved for students within 2 semesters of graduation)
• Practicums / Internship-Credit Courses
• Pre-Med / Pre-Health requirements
• Undergraduate Honors Thesis
• Technical Electives

If you have questions about particular courses, please contact Academic Honors and Fellowships at  [email protected].

Changes and Withdrawals

Award recipients must notify Academic Honors and Fellowships of any changes to their coursework before the Week 3 Add/Drop deadline . Updates must be made by re-submitting the AAA application. Changes must be reviewed and approved to guarantee continued eligibility.

Dropping Courses Between Weeks 3 – 7

If you withdraw from an approved course after the Week 3 Add/Drop Deadline, the AAA award will be withdrawn, and  you will be responsible for covering the cost of additional units above standard tuition (12 – 18 units) . It is crucial that you talk with your advisors and AHF staff before the Add/Drop deadline.

When students withdraw from courses between Week 3 and Week 7, they do not receive a “W” on their transcript. The extra units are charged as an accountability measure to prevent students from sampling courses without facing academic penalty.

If you do wait until after Week 7 to withdraw from a course and opt to take a “W” on your transcript, you will not be charged for the extra units.

Academic Achievement Award Application

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Transfer Students

Admission decision timeline.

First-Year Applicants: Admission decisions will be available on March 22 in the USC Applicant Portal .

Transfer Applicants: An admission decision or request for spring-term grades will be posted by May 31.

Admission letters and certificates will be mailed following the release of admission decisions online.

Share your USC admission with #IGotIntoUSC.

A World of Opportunity

As a transfer student at usc, you will enjoy unparalleled opportunities in and outside the classroom. from access to world-class faculty and the ability to conduct your own original research, to acquiring real-world experience through service learning and internship programs, the possibilities are endless. transfer admission to usc remains highly competitive, and we look for students with outstanding talents and leadership skills. fight on.

Essential Information

Successful transfer applicants:.

• Present at least one year of rigorous, full-time academic coursework, with strong grades. Check out our Transfer Student Profile to see the average GPA of our most recent class of admitted transfer students.
• Show consistent progress toward a degree with at least one year of rigorous, full-time academic coursework. Competitive candidates typically take 14-16 units per term.
• Complete the equivalent of USC’s lower-division Writing requirement, Writing 130.
• Meet our minimum math requirement by demonstrating a mastery of Algebra II in high school, or Intermediate Algebra in college with a grade of C or better. Many majors require more math.
• Make satisfactory progress toward meeting USC General Education requirements.
• Complete additional lower-division courses required by their intended major, if applicable. Refer to Additional Coursework by Major to see if your intended major requires lower-division courses that should be completed before you transfer. This is especially important for students pursuing degrees in science, engineering, architecture, dental hygiene or business.
• International students whose native language is not English must also demonstrate English-language proficiency .

When to Transfer

USC accepts both sophomore and junior transfer students. By transferring as early as your sophomore year, you can take more of your General Education and elective courses at USC. You will be part of the USC community for a longer time and have more opportunities to get involved with campus life and make the connections that can help you after graduation.

Alternately, if your academic record in high school fell short of USC expectations, you may be able to position yourself as a stronger candidate if you complete two years of solid undergraduate coursework at another institution before applying to transfer. Additionally, if you complete most of your General Education requirements before transferring, you will have more time to pursue a double major, a major-minor combination, or a unit-heavy major while you are enrolled at USC.

Current high school students, please note: If you are still in high school, USC considers you a first-year applicant, regardless of the number of college units completed prior to high school graduation. If you have questions about your class standing, please call the USC Office of Admission at (213) 740-1111 .

Transfer Units

USC does not require a minimum number of transfer units.* However, if you will have earned fewer than 30 transferable semester units by the end of the spring term, we will base our decision either primarily on your high school record and/or SAT or ACT scores (if you submit them). Please note that applicants to the 2023-2024 academic year are not required to submit SAT or ACT scores, although they may still submit them if they wish.

*The School of Cinematic Arts, however, does require 48 units to transfer into the Film and Television Production program.

College Transcripts

You must submit official college transcripts from any and all colleges you have attended, regardless of whether or not all coursework or degree requirements were completed. Failure to do so may be viewed as a violation of academic integrity, which could result in revocation of admission and/or dismissal from the university.

Selecting a Major

Transfer applicants must indicate a first-choice major on the application. We also consider transfer students for an optional second-choice major or Undecided/Exploratory status.

English Proficiency Requirement

International transfer applicants whose native language is not English must submit a TOEFL, IELTS, PTE Academic or qualifying SAT or ACT test score earned within two years of their application date. More information is available on our International Students page.

Remedial Coursework

Placement exams offered at your current college will determine your need for any remedial coursework in writing and mathematics prior to your admission to USC. Remedial courses are not transferable.

Required Courses Taken on a Pass/No Pass Basis

As many as 24 semester units, including up to 4 units of General Education courses, may be taken on a Pass/No Pass basis. Typically, only one Core Literacy course may be taken on a Pass/No Pass basis.* Both Global Perspectives courses may be taken on a Pass/No Pass basis. Please note that writing courses taken on a Pass/No Pass basis will not fulfill USC’s lower-division writing requirement.

*Due to disruptions caused by COVID-19, some exceptions may apply.

Dates and Deadlines

You are considered a transfer applicant if you have enrolled in college since leaving high school.

For some majors requiring a portfolio or audition: Application Deadline: December 1, 2023

December 1 is the final deadline for transfer students applying to the following programs:

Kaufman School of Dance School of Cinematic Arts – BFA programs only School of Dramatic Arts – BFA programs only Thornton School of Music

See Additional Major Requirements for information about your intended program.

All other majors Application Deadline: February 15, 2024

Extensions of application deadlines are considered on a case-by-case basis. Students who are unable to meet the published deadlines may contact an admission counselor to be considered for an extension.

Financial Aid Priority Application Deadline: March 4, 2024

Applicants who want to be considered for need-based financial aid must submit the FAFSA * and CSS Profile applications by this date.

California residents should also apply for Cal Grants by this date.

*Undocumented or DACA students should submit their 2022 tax return and third-party letter confirming undocumented status instead of the FAFSA.

Visit our Financial Aid page for more information. To check on the status of your financial aid application, visit the FAST page in your applicant portal .

Regular Decision Notification: May 31

Transfer candidates will receive either an admission decision or a request for spring grades by May 31. If you receive a request for spring grades, you will be notified of an admission decision by mid-July.

Application Checklist

Complete the Common Application

Official final high school transcripts showing date of graduation. Students who completed secondary school outside the U.S. may substitute a copy of a diploma or leaving certificate. Students who did not finish high school should submit transcripts showing any grades they received before leaving, as well as a copy of their completion certificate (such as a GED). These students may also submit a letter of explanation.

Official college transcripts from any and all colleges you attended (regardless of whether coursework or degree requirements were completed).

We need to review your most recent fall-term grades, so be sure your current school has posted them before transcripts are sent. If your school requires an email address to send electronic transcripts, please use [email protected] . This email address should only be used by schools; students should not personally send copies of their transcripts to this address.

Not required unless specifically requested by your intended academic department or major.

Portfolio, resumé and/or additional writing samples, if required by major. Performance majors may also require auditions. Refer to the Additional Application Requirements section , below, for more information.

Affirmations will be available in the portal after we receive your application. Your digital signature may be submitted after the application deadline.

If the application fee poses a financial burden, you may request a fee waiver through the Profile section of the Common Application.

Additional Application Requirements

If you are applying to any major in any of the schools listed below, it is your responsibility to complete your application by the appropriate deadline. Unless otherwise noted, all deadlines are the same as those listed on the Dates and Deadlines section. Be sure to obtain any required supplementary forms and to fulfill all departmental requirements.

Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences

USC School of Architecture

Roski School of Art and Design

Iovine and Young Academy for Arts, Technology and the Business of Innovation

Marshall School of Business

USC School of Cinematic Arts

Kaufman School of Dance

USC School of Dramatic Arts

Viterbi School of Engineering

Thornton School of Music

Alfred E. Mann School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences

Veterans are encouraged to take advantage of an array of services including academic and career counseling, financial aid and veteran benefits information, religious life and more. For more information, visit the USC Veterans Resource Center .

Application fee waivers are available to veterans and their dependents. To request this fee waiver, select the appropriate option under the school-specific fee waiver question, located in the USC Questions section of the Common Application.

Credits & Policies

Units that must be earned at usc.

Transfer students must complete a minimum of 64 units in residence at USC, or half the units typically required for graduation. A few exceptions are noted below. While in residence at USC, you are also expected to:

• Complete all upper-division units in your major and minor.
• Complete WRIT 340, a minimum of two Core Literacy GE courses from a Dornsife College department, and any remaining General Education courses not taken before entering USC.
• Take all your fall- and spring-semester courses for credit at USC. Courses may be taken at other institutions only during summer sessions, with limitations.

Exceptions:

Engineering “3-2” Program: Students must complete a minimum of 48 units in residence at USC. Two-thirds of any transferable coursework must be completed at one of USC’s four-year partner institutions.

Bachelor of Architecture: Students must earn at least 80 units at USC. A maximum of 70 of the transferable units for this program may be earned elsewhere.

Transfer Unit Limits

• USC limits the transfer of credit in certain categories. You may transfer up to: Sixty-four (64) units of credit from other institutions, except where noted.
• Four (4) units each of English as a Second Language, physical education activity courses and music ensemble courses.
• Eight (8) units of dance.
• Twelve (12) units of physical education theory courses.
• Sixteen (16) units of individual instruction in music.
• Other studio and performing arts classes are also limited. Check with an advisor.

Courses/Units That Will Transfer

Accredited courses: Coursework completed at, or degrees from, U.S. institutions accredited by the six regional accrediting agencies are generally accepted. Coursework completed at international post-secondary institutions approved by the local Ministry of Education as degree-granting institutions may also transfer.

Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB) and other standardized examinations: We accept a maximum of 32 units for standardized examinations.

Please visit arr.usc.edu/transfercredit for a list of standardized exams and the course requirements they fulfill.

College courses taken during high school: We accept a maximum of 16 units, included in the 32-unit combined maximum for AP/IB credits. These courses must be taught by college faculty on a college campus, appear on your college transcript as part of the regular college curriculum and must not be applied to your high school diploma. They can fulfill General Education requirements, but they cannot fulfill the writing or foreign language requirements nor receive equivalence to USC courses.

Courses/Units That May Transfer

Courses in these categories will be considered by petition, and credit is granted on a case-by-case basis. Be sure to keep copies of course syllabi, exams and papers, as we may ask for these in making our determination. Nontraditional formats/time frames: Distance-learning, online courses, concentrated “intensive” sessions, special weekend modules, and other nontraditional course formats and time frames.

Please note that elective units only — not equivalence to USC courses or fulfillment of requirements — are granted for foreign language and laboratory science courses taught via distance learning, TV, or in an online or correspondence course.

Due to disruptions caused by COVID-19, some exceptions may apply.

Courses/Units That Will Not Transfer

Unaccredited institutions: Coursework or degrees completed at U.S. institutions not accredited by a regional accrediting agency. Low grades: Courses in which your grade was less than C– (1.7).

No degree credit: College extension courses and courses taken at international institutions not credited toward a degree at that college.

Areas of study not offered by USC: These include agriculture, business office procedures, hotel management, food services, industrial mechanics, interior design, fire science, forestry, police academy, and similar professional and technical programs.

Duplicated material: An AP exam and IB exam or college course covering the same material.

Life and work experience: Including portfolio work, continuing education, equivalency examination units, and courses offered by business and governmental agencies (even if evaluated by the American Council on Education).

Placement exams: Courses and/ or unit credits awarded by another institution for placement examinations or credit by exam.

Remedial/college preparatory/ personal development: Including mathematics courses below the level of college-level algebra. (Intermediate Algebra, USC’s minimum math requirement for admission, is not transferable.)

Nontraditional formats at two-year colleges: Including independent study, directed study, correspondence courses, internships and travel courses.

Graduate-level courses: Graduate-level coursework taken by undergraduate students.

Determining Your Transfer GPA

USC calculates your transfer GPA on the basis of your grades in all USC-transferable courses, including grades of D and below. Plus and minus grading is taken into account. Expired incompletes, unofficial withdrawals and missing grades are treated as an “F.” Credit/No Credit and Pass/No Pass marks are not included in the transfer GPA.USC does not honor other colleges’ academic “renewal” or “forgiveness” programs that permit students to improve a substandard grade. If you repeat a transferable course for which you earned a grade of D+ or lower, both grades will be included in your transfer GPA. If the grade on the first course was a C- or higher, only the first grade is included.

Your transfer GPA is different from the GPA earned in courses you take at USC. The transfer GPA and your USC GPA are kept separate until it is time to determine if you are eligible to graduate and earn graduation honors, as described in the USC Catalogue .

Academic Standards and Requirements

The USC Catalogue is the document of authority on policy matters, and it changes from time to time. It provides complete information about academic standards governing coursework taken at other colleges, as well as specific requirements for your major field. Please visit catalogue.usc.edu for the most current version.

Students who began college in fall 2015 or after: Students are required to follow these revised General Education requirements if they graduated high school in spring or summer 2015 and their first full-time term of college enrollment was fall 2015 or after (excluding summers).

Students who began college prior to fall 2015: Students who started at any college or university before summer 2015 will follow the GE program in effect prior to fall 2015.

Transfer Tools

Transfer planning brochure.

This brochure will help you navigate the application and transfer process, and introduce you to our transfer policies. View the Transfer Planning Brochure .

Interactive Planning Guide

This online resource will help you determine which undergraduate courses at other institutions will satisfy USC’s General Education courses, as well as the lower-division coursework required for any major. Go to the Interactive Planning Guide .

Transfer Planning Worksheet

This worksheet will help you keep track of the transferable courses you have completed and what courses are still in progress. Download the Transfer Planning Worksheet .

Students who began full-time, college-level work prior to fall 2015 (excluding summer semesters) will need to follow the pre-2015 General Education requirements .

Attend a Transfer Information Session

In this session , an admission counselor will discuss how credits transfer to USC and how to present a competitive transfer application.

Additional Coursework by Major

Find the lower-division, introductory coursework that may be recommended or required for your intended major. Download the Additional Coursework by Major file.

Articulation Agreements: Community Colleges

These lists indicate the community college courses that fulfill General Education and other requirements, as well as equivalents to lower-division courses at USC. Visit Articulation Agreements with Community Colleges.

Articulation Histories with Local Four-Year Colleges

Though USC does not maintain formal articulation agreements with four-year colleges, this resource will help you determine which courses have been accepted for transfer in the past. Courses not included on the history have not yet been reviewed and may or may not transfer. Most academic courses from four-year institutions are accepted for transfer credit. View Articulation Histories .

DACA Students

For information about application for DACA students, please refer to  this page .

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