Founded in 1880, University of Southern California. is a Private college. Located in California, which is a city setting in California, the campus itself is Urban. The campus is home to 18,794 full time undergraduate students, and 25,077 full time graduate students.
The University of Southern California Academic calendar runs on a Semester basis. In the school year the student to faculty ratio was 9:1. There are 2062 full time instructional teachers. Degrees awarded at University of Southern California include: Bachelor's Degree, Masters Degree, Post-master's certificate, Doctor's degree.
Quick Facts
Acceptance Rate
16%
Application Deadline
Application Fee
80
SAT Range
1280-1500
ACT Range
30-33
Admissions at USC are considered Most Selective, with ,166% of all applicants being admitted.
In the school year, of the students who applied to the school, only 6 of those who were admitted eventually ended up enrolling.
0% of incoming freshmen are in the top half of their high school class. 0% were in the top quarter, and 0% were in the top tenth. You can apply online.
STUDENT LIFE Reviews
We asked, and students answered these important questions about student life at University of Southern California.
270 Students rated on-campus housing 3.4 stars. 19 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate off-campus housing?
233 Students rated off-campus housing 3 stars. 0 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate campus food?
289 Students rated campus food 3.6 stars. 20 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate campus facilities?
292 Students rated campus facilities 4.4 stars. 52 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate class size?
289 Students rated class size 4.1 stars. 43 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate school activities?
286 Students rated school activities 4.4 stars. 58 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate local services?
286 Students rated local services 4 stars. 45 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate academics?
292 Students rated academics 4 stars. 43 % gave the school a 5.0.
University of Southern California REVIEWS
What's your overall opinion of University of Southern California?
123 Students rated University of Southern California
Annika
Prospective04/02/2025
In November 2024, I had the opportunity to attend the USC Diversity Conference, which showcased the diverse voices eager to enter the industry. The graduate program at USC aims to bridge the knowledge gap and offers essential technical expertise and mentorship for aspiring professionals on set. Additionally, they host Industry Week, where executives from companies like Warner Bros and Disney provide advice and networking opportunities. The program features world-class facilities, a partnership with Sony cameras, and offers students some of the most innovative storytelling opportunities. I am incredibly grateful to have been accepted to attend the school for my MFA!
Nico
The University of Southern California (USC) is an exceptional institution that offers a world-class education alongside a vibrant college experience. From academics to campus life, USC provides a well-rounded environment for students to grow both intellectually and socially.
Academically, USC is known for its rigorous programs and diverse fields of study. The professors are experts in their respective fields, with many being leaders in research and industry. In my experience, they are not only highly knowledgeable but also approachable, offering mentorship and guidance that extends beyond the classroom. The academic culture at USC emphasizes critical thinking, innovation, and practical application of knowledge, preparing students for success in their future careers.
College life at USC is vibrant and full of opportunities. The campus is bustling with student organizations, clubs, and events, offering something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in academics, activism, or the arts, there’s a place for you at USC. The Trojan spirit is alive on campus, and the sense of community is strong, with students supporting one another and forming lasting connections. Additionally, USC offers a wide range of housing options, from on-campus dorms to off-campus apartments, ensuring that students have comfortable living arrangements close to everything they need.
When it comes to social life, USC offers a balanced mix of academic focus and fun. The party scene is lively but not overwhelming, allowing students to unwind and socialize without compromising their academic responsibilities. There are plenty of opportunities to attend events, concerts, and parties, especially in the surrounding area of Los Angeles, a city that offers a unique backdrop for college life.
Sports are another major part of the USC experience. The Trojan pride is evident during game days, where students come together to support USC’s athletic teams, especially the football team. The energy at these events is infectious, and the sense of school pride adds to the overall college experience.
In my personal experience, USC has been an incredible place to grow academically and socially. The combination of rigorous academics, a supportive community, and a lively campus atmosphere has made my time here unforgettable. The opportunities for growth, both inside and outside the classroom, have prepared me for a successful future, and I am proud to be part of the USC community.
Junior
Very good university overall, the campus is very big and modern with tons of facilities to meet all the classes needs.
People are all very kind and welcoming, always ready to assist you.
There is also a ton of well being ressources and communications to ensure students do well.
Nikia
When people picture the University of Southern California, often cheekily misnamed the University of Spoiled Children, they often imagine influencers cruising Los Angeles in expensive cars, kids of Hollywood stars sitting in class, and drunk kids tailgating for the next Big Ten football game. However, what people often fail to realize is that, like all stereotypical American schools: the sporty, jock energy of USC works in perfect tandem with the vibrant community of nerds, geeks, and outcasts that propel the school’s culture. Every football team, afterall, needs its marching band.
The arts scene at USC is truly a magical place. What you will find about the student body is that everybody has a hobby, and with the collaborative nature of the school’s extracurricular scene, Trojans take these hobbies seriously. You will find psychology students designing and sewing full sets for fashion shows, business students choreographing dances with Kenzie Ziegler, and architecture students coding video games in their free time. Renaissance culture is truly valued here, and at times, it can honestly feel a bit overwhelming. The pressure to not only do a lot of things, but be talented at a lot of things, makes for a vibrant social art scene, but an exhausting day-to-day.
I will also say that one’s experience at USC varies greatly depending on both your school and major. Smaller majors at USC have a significant advantage when it comes to access to resources, facilities, and perhaps most importantly, community. Based on what I’ve heard from my peers, students in cohort-based programs (such as Business of Cinematic Arts, Iovine and Young Academy, or Architecture) often build strong personal/ professional relationships within the first year of being at school, whereas some students in larger Dornsife majors complain of not having a centralized place or time to meet with students who have similar academic passions.
Generally, my experience at USC has been extremely positive, aside from the way the administration handled the student protests in Spring 2024. They approached the student body withholding communication, honesty, and kindness, and instead used militarism, increased surveillance, and a rigidity that makes me concerned for the future growth of the institution.
Lena
I was a transfer student coming to the University of Southern California and as a transfer, I felt like the school had the vast majority of helpful events, programs, and fun events for students. I tried to attend almost every single one and they were all very fun and meaningful. I felt belonged at school and I learned a lot throughout my first semester here. However, because I'm a transfer student, I also felt like I didn't expect how competitive it is here. So I had to put a lot more effort into studying and getting into clubs with 5% percent acceptance rate. So sometimes those prestigious clubs seemed like I could never get in there, but it also inspired me to do always better and to get motivated by students who always want to succeed in life.
Eduardo
The University of Southern California (USC) is a prestigious institution known for its academic excellence, innovative research, and vibrant campus life. Located in Los Angeles, USC offers students access to a major cultural and economic hub, providing ample opportunities for internships and networking. The university is particularly renowned for its programs in business, engineering, and cinematic arts, and it boasts a diverse and inclusive environment that attracts students from around the world. With a strong alumni network and a commitment to supporting students from diverse backgrounds, USC is an excellent choice for those seeking a comprehensive education and a dynamic college experience
Salma
I had the best time completing an undergraduate degree at USC, and now I'm heading back for my masters. Student life is incredible, with so many opportunities to join clubs, go to football and basketball games, go out and party, or stay home for a quiet night. There are a lot of students, but individual classes are small enough where your professor will easily know your name (7:1 student to professor ratio.) Academics are strong, with myriad opportunities to get involved in research and amazing facilities. Only drawback is the unsafe area.
Jerusalen
I love USC and USC is my dream school. Their culture and academics represents me so well. I fell in love with University of Southern California years ago and that love only grew and grew. Everything I've ever heard and seen has always been positive and I hope to get admission into USC class of 2029! FIGHT ON!
Joshua
USC is a great school, a dream school for students who want to have an intimate relationship with professors and colleagues. Class size is small enough to get full attention. Academics are challenging enough to learn beyond what is given. Great school!
Samantha
USC is an amazing place to learn since it has an insane amount of cool professors that have tons of passion for their work and are very empathic for their students. The campus is also beautiful and the safety is top notch considering that LA can sometimes be dangerous. Overall, USC is the best.
Abisola
University of Southern California has both a positive reputation and a dynamic academic environment that aligns with my ambitions. During a field trip to the USC campus, I was fascinated by its uniqueness which sets it apart from other university campuses I’ve visited. The cupcake machine is one of the examples of the university’s student-focused approach. It showed me that USC is committed to providing a learning environment that caters to academic and personal needs. In addition, USC’s emphasis on diversity and inclusion resonates deeply with me, especially coming from a non-diverse school. I see USC as a place where I can collaborate with people from diverse backgrounds, exchange unique experiences and ideas, and gain different perspectives that will aid in my academic and personal development. In conclusion, USC represents not only a prestigious academic institution but also a place where I can achieve my educational goals, personal growth, and contribute to a diverse and inclusive community.
Olivia
Personally, the University of Southern California has a diverse student body with plenty of resources available for students to thrive. No matter what you plan to pursue, the University of Southern California has a place for you. There interdisciplinary learning allows for students to dive deeper into other areas of study that interest them, creating well-rounded students both academically and socially.
Anna
USC is a great place to network and meet new people. I am a fan of the pretty campus, the school spirit and the opportunities available for students. You are surrounded by very talented individuals, so imposter syndrome may occur. In addition, off campus housing is expensive and food near campus can be pricey.
mathew
A super fun and intense experience. It is the only metro campus I know that is small, has diversity in academic departments, and yet concentrated.
Ashley
USC is very attentive to it's students. If I have a question and I need to call a specific office there is always someone to answer or I get a call back right away. USC cares very much about their students. Some form of advisor will always call to make sure the student is doing well and their mental health is doing great. Experiences may very, but so far this has been mine.
The fall 2020 acceptance rate for University of Southern California is 16%. That means, out of _____ applications received in 2020, _____ students were offered admission.
What should every freshman at your school know before they start?
I have received a sense of unity, and envolvement that I have never felt before. Often my focus remains on only academics and learning, however, I have learned to broaden my mind to other experiences and allow myself to open my mind and soul to opportunities that were left closed. It is most valuable to look beyond one's own surrounding and take in what people and one's environment has to offer, mentally and physically. Life and living is not about a closed door, but an open door to explore and lives to ones full potential. By attending this school, I have allowed myself to be open and strive for the best being that there are so many people in the world with great capabilities and astounding abilities that inspire an individual like myself to value my life, my education, and my potention future.
Here's your chance: Say anything about your college!
I feel that USC embodies a large research university quite well, but it also has a strong sense of partying and social life seems to revolve more than I would wish around alcohol and parties instead of academics or a focus on innovation and academic change. However, recently I've seen a group fo students here who really focus on technology and innovation that I've been able to work with well and has been very encouraging. Overall, faculty is interesting and helpful towards helping with material and classes, overall tend to be on your side.
Is the stereotype of students at your school accurate?
Yes and no. In regards to being wealthy - out of the many many people I met while attending the Masters program film school, I only stumbled upon three rich people and they were all nice and down to earth. In regards to being Republican - a friend of mine is a student assistant for the undergraduate classes and he says about 90{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} of his students are in fact, republican.
What's the one thing you wish someone had told you about freshman year?
I wish I had known the level of stress and pressure placed upon students who are following Pre-Health career pathways. Competition is fierce amongst the brightest Pre-Health students in all of my science classes.
What are the most popular student activities/groups?
Greek life is pretty big. 'Thirsty Thursdays' on the Row are big, every week. Going to football games (and the preceding tailgates) is very common. There are also several acapella and dance groups. Visions and Voices, a program that brings performing groups, artists, authors, actors, speakers, and previews/retrospectives of Film & TV to campus is very commonly attended as well.
Describe how your school looks to someone who's never seen it.
My school is an academically challenging, demographically diverse university; in spite of the fact hat every individual strives for his/her maximum achievement, there is no forceful competition within the student body, but rather reciprocally supportive spirit between students as well as in interaction with teaching assistants and professors. The overall support provided by USC covers physical as well as psychological health issues, academic struggles, and problems evoked by the new setting every student is placed into; even though the university is huge (geographically and population wise), you never feel lonely, but rather surrounded by caring fellow Trojans.
What do you consider the worst thing about your school? Why?
If I had to choose the worst thing that USC has to offer to its students would be its athletic center called the Lyon Center. The facility is in dire need of renovation including new machines and locker rooms.
What kind of person should not attend this school?
Well, there are two types of people who come here, very hard workers, and the extremely sociable people. Sometimes they mix, often times they're separated. So if you dont fit either categories, it would be difficult here. Also, anyone who cares about the success of their future should consider attending as well.
The best thing about the USC is the alumni and prospect for your future career after you graduate from college. There's a general sense that you're basically covered to find a job in whatever field you are studying in by the time you leave college, so there isn't much a of a worry about finding a job out there.
What is the stereotype of students at your school? Is this stereotype accurate?
I think the stereotype for USC is greek life/athletes. On the surface, it appears to be true. Walking around campus, it seems like most students are repping their letters on their clothes, bags, or hats. Freshman year, the majority of students party on greek row, and there is definitely some pressure to join a sorority or fraternity. Greek life seems to dominate the social setting. In actuality, less than 30{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} of students are involved in greek life, I think that they are just the loudest, and are obnoxious about it. There are plenty of other groups on campus, not the mention the amazing Thornton School of Music which attracts lots of students whose interests delve deeper than partying and looking good. USC is somewhat defined by its stereotype of being a big greek life/party school, but it's big enough to find lots of other social settings and organizations. if you make an effort, you will find whatever it is that you want at USC. USC is what you make of it.
After going to boarding school for high school for 4 years, I needed increased freedom and that required a complete change of coasts. I visited the school during the Summer before my senior year, when I was finalizing my list of choices. I absolutely adored the weather, the people I met, the campus, the school's competitive academic nature, and #1 Film school in the United States. All this, combined with the school's eventual acceptance of my application in April the following year, led to my almost immediate decision to accept admission.
At USC, dorms are typically reserved for freshmen. Each dorm has a distinct vibe based on its set-up and the students that tend to pick it. Here's the lowdown on some of USC's most popular residential colleges:
Birnkrant: With the motto, "Eight floors of open doors," Birnkrant is known for its tight-knit community. As of 2011-2012, students must be on an academic scholarship or enrolled in the Thematic Option Honors Program to reside here. Rooms are "cozy" and predominantly doubles, with a few singles and triples thrown in. (These triples are a well-kept secret -- they have a living room of sorts, a luxury very few freshmen have.) Gender-specific bathrooms are communal and floors are coed. Located on McCarthy Quad. A 24-hour convenience store, Trojan Grounds (TroGro) is located on the first floor.
New-North: Widely regarded as the most social (read: party dorm) residential college at USC, New-North is a popular choice with students who are looking to go greek. It's often loud, so many residents make use of Leavey library when they need to hit the books, just a couple hundred feet away. Features a cinema floor, and some rooms have sinks. Also located on McCarthy Quad.
Parkside Arts & Humanities/International Res. Colleges: These recently constructed suite-style dorms are fresh and air-conditioned. They feature the best dining hall on campus, but are isolated from any other freshman housing. There are study rooms, TV lounges, billiards, and a gym. Popular with GDIs, as anti-greeks often call themselves.
Fluor Tower: Fluor rooms are a cross between a suite and an apartment - a small kitchenette in each unit lessens the blow that dining halls are a trek away. Features many special interest floors and is quite popular with athletes because of its proximity to the Lyon Center Gym.
Pardee: Pardee is kind of like Birnkrant Light. Rooms are similar, but are located on single sex floors. Also on McCarthy Quad, Pardee is close to the beautiful Doheny Library and student-run coffeehouse Ground Zero, a great locale for studying, board games, open mic nights, and the best milkshakes in LA.
All students must apply yearly for financial aid. This process starts with the FAFSA.
Though financial aid deadlines vary by school, it is a good idea to apply as soon as possible. For the upcoming school year, you can apply as early as October 1 for the FAFSA. Additional school aid will be dependent on the FAFSA results.
64% of students attending University of Southern California receive some sort of financial aid.
17% were awarded federal grants.27%received federal loans. Many students do also need to apply for additional private student loans.
