University of Southern California
Private university in Los Angeles known for film and business. Founded in 1880, USC is the oldest private research university in California. The School of Cinematic Arts is regarded as one of the top film programs in the world, alongside the Marshall School of Business and Viterbi School of Engineering. A famously tight-knit alumni network, known as the Trojan Family, and deep ties to the LA entertainment industry give graduates an unusual head start on industry connections.
Source: College Scorecard, U.S. Department of Education. Figures reflect the most recently published class — always confirm current-cycle numbers on USC's official admissions site before applying.
What SAT/ACT Scores Do Admitted Students Have?
The middle 50% of USC's admitted students scored within these ranges:
Source: College Scorecard, U.S. Department of Education (25th–75th percentile of admitted students). Get your own personalized chance estimate →
Will You Get Into USC?
This estimate compares the test score you enter against USC's real published middle-50% band (1450–1550 SAT, 32–35 ACT) and its 9.8% acceptance rate to produce a Safety, Target, or Reach label. It intentionally does not use GPA — no institution publishes real per-school GPA distribution data, so we don't invent one.
With only a 9.8% acceptance rate, USC is a reach for almost every applicant, regardless of test scores.
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Get Started FreeApplication Deadlines
Source: USC admissions, 2026–27 (fall 2027 entry), verified Oct 2026.
Required Supplements
- Common App or Coalition
- USC Supplement
- School Report
- Teacher Evaluation
Optional but recommended:
- Interview
Requirements vary by cycle. Confirm what USC currently asks for on its official admissions site.
What Should Your USC Essay Focus On?
- Show fit with Trojan family culture
- Demonstrate you understand LA opportunities
- Be specific about why USC for your interests
- Show you'll contribute to the community
What Is USC Looking For in Applicants?
- Academic excellence matched to strengths in film, business, and engineering
- Genuine fit with the tight-knit alumni culture the university is known for
- Genuine, specific enthusiasm for the school rather than reasons that could apply to any large private university
- A real plan to make use of the ties to the LA entertainment industry, not just an interest in campus
See where you stand at USC.
Skora estimates your chances from USC's acceptance rate and its admitted students' test scores, then gives you feedback on every essay. Free to start.
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