Overview
With its prestigious reputation and captivating surroundings, the University of Southern California (USC) is an enormously popular choice among college applicants each year. In 2023 alone, USC received more than 70,000 applications, yet only a fraction (around 8,000) received offers of admission, resulting in an acceptance rate of merely 11%.
USC holds a prominent position in national rankings, often securing a spot within the top 25 universities in the United States. U.S. News & World Report consistently lauds USC, ranking it among the top-tier institutions in the nation. Situated in the heart of Los Angeles, the university’s campus is nestled amid the cultural richness of the city’s downtown, offering students a blend of academic excellence and urban excitement. Furthermore, Los Angeles, renowned for its diverse culture, iconic landmarks, and thriving entertainment industry, provides an unparalleled backdrop for students pursuing their academic and professional aspirations at USC.
Spark Admissions’ college consulting results are 8X the national average for Ivy League admissions and 6X the national average for many top 50 colleges.
USC is renowned for its excellence across various disciplines, particularly in film and cinematic arts, business, engineering, and communication. With its prestigious School of Cinematic Arts consistently ranked among the top in the world, USC has established itself as a leader in the realm of entertainment and media. Additionally, USC’s Marshall School of Business is highly regarded for its innovative curriculum and world-class faculty, preparing students for success in the dynamic global marketplace. The Viterbi School of Engineering stands as a beacon of innovation and technological advancement, offering cutting-edge programs in areas such as computer science, aerospace engineering, and biomedical engineering. With a commitment to academic excellence, USC maintains a low student-to-faculty ratio with nearly 62% of its classes hosting fewer than 20 students.
Class Profile
Living in Los Angeles as a student offers a vibrant and dynamic experience. With its diverse neighborhoods, cultural richness, and endless opportunities for entertainment, the city becomes an extended campus for USC students. The weather is typically sunny and mild, inviting outdoor activities year-round. USC itself is nestled in the heart of Los Angeles, providing easy access to iconic landmarks like the Griffith Observatory, Santa Monica Pier, and Hollywood Boulevard. The city’s thriving arts scene offers countless museums, galleries, theaters, and music venues to explore, complementing the academic experience with cultural immersion. From world-class dining to food trucks, LA’s culinary scene caters to every taste and budget. Further, internship and networking opportunities abound in industries like entertainment, technology, and entrepreneurship, allowing students to gain real-world experience while studying.
USC has a total enrollment of over 20,000 undergraduate students. Beyond academics, the USC campus offers a vibrant social scene with events ranging from concerts and film screenings to sports games and campus-wide festivals. The university’s location in the heart of Los Angeles provides students with access to a wealth of cultural, recreational, and professional opportunities. Whether exploring the city’s renowned museums and theaters, interning at top companies and organizations, or simply enjoying the year-round sunshine, USC students benefit from the university’s close ties to one of the world’s most dynamic and diverse cities.
Freshman students are required to live on-campus and will be assigned a meal plan. Several special dorm opportunities are available:
This estimate takes into account tuition and fees, housing and meals, books and supplies, and personal expenses for the 2023-2024 academic year.
Having gained insight into USC’s unique atmosphere, competitive admission criteria, and acceptance rates, you may be considering becoming a part of the Trojan community. If that’s the case, consider whether you would benefit from guidance in refining your application materials and positioning yourself most effectively for admission to one of the best colleges in the country. If so, reach out to us to schedule a complimentary initial consultation with one of our expert college admissions consultants, and learn more about how we can assist you in navigating the path towards a bright future at USC.
