university of southern california gpa

Worried about getting the best university of southern california gpa? This is a detailed research on university of southern california acceptance rate. If your preference is usc application requirements, then this article is perfect for you. Many schools specify a minimum GPA requirement, but this is often just the bare minimum to submit an application without immediately getting rejected. The GPA requirement that really matters is the GPA you need for a real chance of getting in. For this, we look at the school’s average GPA for its current students.

The University of Southern California or USC as it’s commonly known is one of the top universities in the world. Primarily based in Los Angeles, California, it was founded in 1880 and has turned out some of the most famous and successful people in the world. The university has two campuses which are centred around its athletic facilities.

The University of Southern California (USC) is a private, not-for-profit, nonsectarian American research university located in Los Angeles California. The University offers bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees in more than 150 categories through its colleges and schools.

university of southern california gpa

university of southern california acceptance rate

Average GPA: 3.79

The average GPA at USC is 3.79.

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(Most schools use a weighted GPA out of 4.0, though some report an unweighted GPA.

With a GPA of 3.79, USC requires you to be above average in your high school class. You’ll need at least a mix of A’s and B’s, with more A’s than B’s. You can compensate for a lower GPA with harder classes, like AP or IB classes. This will show that you’re able to handle more difficult academics than the average high school student.

If you’re currently a junior or senior, your GPA is hard to change in time for college applications. If your GPA is at or below the school average of 3.79, you’ll need a higher SAT or ACT score to compensate. This will help you compete effectively against other applicants who have higher GPAs than you.

SAT and ACT Requirements

Each school has different requirements for standardized testing. Most schools require the SAT or ACT, and many also require SAT subject tests.

You must take either the SAT or ACT to submit an application to USC. More importantly, you need to do well to have a strong application.

USC SAT Requirements

Many schools say they have no SAT score cutoff, but the truth is that there is a hidden SAT requirement. This is based on the school’s average score.

Average SAT: 1440

The average SAT score composite at USC is a 1440 on the 1600 SAT scale.

This score makes USC Strongly Competitive for SAT test scores.

How We Evaluate Your Application

Academics

Incoming first-year students demonstrate superior academic performance — and the potential to do more. Most admitted students are ranked in the top 10 percent of their graduating class, and their median standardized test score is in the top 5 percent.

Outside of mathematics, no specific curriculum is prescribed or required, though students offered admission typically pursue the most rigorous program available to them in English, science, social studies, foreign language and the arts. Students are expected to have earned a grade of C or better in at least three years of high school mathematics, including Advanced Algebra (Algebra II). Careful attention is paid to preparation for the intended major.

The review is not formulaic — we try to envision your performance at the next level.

We are also looking for your potential to make an impact: willingness to go beyond the requirements, to dig deeply into texts, to explore ideas and become a lifelong learner.

Ultimately we look for students who will become enthusiastic partners in learning and research.

Admission to Specific Majors

Applicants to some majors must submit a portfolio or audition. In some cases, you will need to submit these by December 1. Our final decision is based in part on the feedback we receive from the faculty of these programs. Some of these programs are particularly competitive, so we will consider students for their second-choice majors as well, or we may admit them as “undecided/undeclared.”

Personal Characteristics

We strive to enroll a diverse group of students who represent a vast array of perspectives and passions, who will enrich each other’s education by challenging each other, inside the classroom and out.

Your essay and short-answer responses will help us get to know your personality and your voice.

Teacher and counselor recommendations speak to your academic success and the contributions you might make to the classroom, the broader learning environment and the community at large. Your values will be reflected in those letters, as well as in your activity list.

We pay close attention to your personal narrative, background and circumstances, realizing that each student is unique and has something to offer. Your application will paint a picture of you and how you might contribute to the community, tradition and spirit that make USC the dynamic place it is.

Checklist

• Common Application and USC Writing Supplement

• Official Test Scores: For students who submit test scores, USC records the highest scores for those who have taken tests more than once. For the SAT and ACT, the highest scores for each section of the exam will be recorded, even if achieved in different sittings. USC does not require the writing section for either the ACT or the SAT general test.

More information about this test optional policy can be found on our Frequently Asked Questions page.

• Transcripts: First-year applicants should submit official transcripts of all high school and college coursework completed.

• Letter(s) of Recommendation: One letter is required from either your school counselor or a teacher from your school. Applicants to the School of Cinematic Arts must submit two letters of recommendation.

• 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.

• Submit your fall grades (when available): Use the Mid-Year Report Form included in the Common Application or visit your applicant portal to submit your fall grades.

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

International applicants please refer to the International Students page for Additional Requirements.

Home-Schooled applicants must also submit answers to the home-school questions on the Common Application Secondary School Report. Be sure to include information about your home-schooling philosophy, curricular choices and textbooks used. Although the application process for the 2022-2023 and 2023-2024 Academic Year is test-optional, we still find it helpful to have work from home-schooled students that is externally graded or examined. Therefore, we recommend submitting either SAT/ACT results, SAT subject exam results, AP exam results, or transcripts from college courses or other accredited online schooling programs if possible.

The USC Office of Admission reserves the right to make admission decisions with unofficial documents and may collect official documents post-admission or enrollment.

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 page. Be sure to obtain any required supplementary forms and to fulfill all departmental requirements.

Apply: Transfer Students

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.
  • Students whose native language is not English must also demonstrate English-language proficiency.

›When to Transfer›Transfer Units›College Transcripts›Selecting a Major›English Proficiency Requirement›Remedial Coursework›Required Courses Taken on a Pass/No Pass Basis


View our Transferring to USC Brochure
Find detailed information about the transfer application and admission process.

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

Check out our Interactive Planning Guide
Find information on which courses at your current institution will satisfy USC’s requirements.

Checklist

  • 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 uetrans@usc.edu. This email address should only be used by schools; students should not personally send copies of their transcripts to this address.
  • Letter(s) of recommendation. (Optional, although may be required for some majors.)
  • Portfolio, resumé and/or additional writing samples, if required by major. Performance majors may also require auditions. Refer to the Additional Major Requirements page for more information.
  • Application Affirmations: Affirmations will be available in the portal after we receive your application. Your digital signature may be submitted after the application deadline.

International applicants please refer to the International Students page for an Application Checklist.

Credit and Policies

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.

›Courses/Units That Will Transfer

›Courses/Units That May Transfer›Courses/Units That Will Not Transfer›Determining Your Transfer GPA

›Academic Standards and Requirements


Our Transfer Students Come From…

56% California Community Colleges
8% California Private Colleges and Universities
10% California State University / University of California
23% U.S. Colleges Outside California
3% International Colleges and Universities

Transfer Tools

The key to a successful transfer is good planning. The following resources will help you determine which courses and credits will transfer to USC. Click on the links below to access an interactive planning guide, download useful brochures, checklists, worksheets, and information.

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 (PDF)
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 (PDF).

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

Additional Coursework by Major (PDF)
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. Go to the 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.

Veterans

Through an array of affiliated services include academic and career counseling, financial aid and veteran benefits information, religious life, and more.  For more information, visit the USC Veterans Resource Center.

Immigration-DACA Status

USC admission, enrollment and tuition policies are not based on your immigration or DACA status. Your admission and enrollment will not be affected if you do not have or if you lose your immigration or DACA status. Financial assistance is available for undocumented students who meet certain criteria.  California residents may qualify for additional assistance under AB540 (the “California Dream Act”). For more information, please visit dream.csac.ca.gov.

usc application requirements

10 Best Countries to Study Abroad

Studying abroad is a great way to develop additional social, academic and language skills, whilst adding an unparalleled depth to your university experience. Study overseas can enhance your university years, and will also ultimately give you a competitive advantage when it comes to finding employment, as recruiters seek out those who have proactively pursued different ways to broaden their experience. If you are considering completing all or some of your university studies overseas, check out this summary of the best countries to study abroad.

France

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Romantic Paris consistently tops lists of the best cities for students. Although the vibrant night life, thriving cultural scene, and the prospect of long walks along the left bank of the Seine are surely partly the reason, the almost non-existent tuition fees also help. Whilst much undergraduate teaching is carried out in French, graduate education is often available in English. Or take the opportunity to brush up your French and attend a course given in the ‘language of love’.

United States

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The choice of Universities in the US is quite mind-boggling. From internationally renowned ivy league institutions to hubs of innovation and cutting edge thought, whatever you study here you will have opportunities to add to your life experience. Over 750000 international students attend university in the US every year, and despite the high costs of fees, students love living in both Boston and San Fransisco enough for both cities to rank among top student cities. But if you sign up to study and decide that you would like a change of scenery, switching between universities in the US is not unusual.

Germany

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As one of the economic powerhouses of Europe, Germany has more going for it than just Oktoberfest. It is also one of the best known European destinations for free (or almost free) university tuition fees, which might explain why outside of anglophone nations (the UK, US and Australia) it is the country with the highest number of international students. Head to Munich to attend an internationally rated university without breaking the bank, or Berlin to join the thriving tech hub and immerse yourself in the German take on hipster culture.

Canada

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Toronto ranked recently as the most desirable city for students, among an impressive three Canadian cities in total to make the top 15. With cities this attractive it is no wonder that 6.5% of students in post secondary education in Canada come from abroad. With a vibrant culture, stunning natural environment and massive regional variations, Canada offers lots to explore for visiting students, in addition to several internationally ranked universities.

Taiwan

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Taipei was recently ranked as the most affordable city for students around the globe. Tuition fees are low, and the high quality of education can make this a great choice. Learn more about the local history and politics, as well as experiencing life in a new culture, where old and new come together in a vibrant symphony.

Argentina

Futbol soccer fan face paint from Argentina photo by Monte Isom

Argentinian students enjoy free university tuition, and although international students must pay a nominal enrolment fee, the costs are still low outside of the private institutions. The University of Belgrano gets a special mention, as a modern and well equipped facility just outside of downtown Buenos Aires, with great global connections. Take the time in Argentina to perfect your Spanish and maybe even learn to tango.

Australia

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Australia is one of the world’s most popular places for international students – and with sandy beaches, year round sunshine and a relaxed outdoors lifestyle, it is no surprise. Australian universities welcome international students and are well prepared to support newcomers. Considering its relatively small population, Australia has an unusually high number of institutions making the top hundred for university academic rankings, making it the perfect destination for sun, sand and academic success.

South Korea

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Who didn’t love Gangnam style? Get to the heart of K-Pop by studying in Seoul. And if you’re not a catchy-pop-tune kind of person, then you will be delighted to hear that the capital – as well as being a seriously fast paced fun place – is home to 14 internationally rated universities. Get outside your comfort zone and learn about an amazing culture whilst improving both your academic record and your CV.

United Kingdom

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The UK has a wide variety of high quality universities, and although fees vary across institutions and can be fairly high, it is worth seeking out scholarship opportunities. Students often work to support their studies, and flexible opportunities to fit around university schedules are not unusual. With a melting pot of cultures, a mix of location from cutting edge urban to sleepy rural idyll, students in the UK never need to be bored.

Denmark

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If you are from the EU/EEA or Switzerland then you may be eligible for free university tuition in Denmark. And if you are intending to pursue a PhD, there are even opportunities to study whilst earning a salary as this higher level study comes fully funded. The costs of living are undeniably high, but Denmark provides a fascinating base to explore Europe and experience nordic culture at its best.

Wherever you go, studying overseas is about more than the academic qualifications you may gain.  Showing the curiosity, organisational skills and ambition to arrange a period of study overseas is a great selling point. Whether you are heading off for your entire university program, for a semester or two, or even to study during the summer holidays, you are gathering armfuls of skills and experiences that will stand you head and shoulders above competitors when it comes to looking for graduate jobs. Take the opportunity to combine study and travel, and immerse yourself in a new culture to broaden your horizons. You won’t regret it.

How to Choose the Right Time to Study Abroad

When to Study Abroad - Kaitlyn Nemickas SIT Chile Identity Justice Comm Development

While it would be much easier if this were the case, there isn’t one single time that is right for everyone to study abroad. There are several factors to take into consideration, including:

  • Timing: When does the school year start and end for the school you want to go to? Many schools in other parts of the world have academic calendars that may overlap your next school year at home.
  • Duration: Do you want to go for one semester? If so, which semester? The full year? Six to eight weeks over the summer?
  • Academics: Are there any prerequisites you should complete before you go abroad? Are there equivalencies for any course requirements you have yet to fulfill? Will going abroad at a certain time delay your graduation, and if so, is that something you’re willing to do? Make sure to meet with an advisor and discuss all of the courses you need and which ones you can earn equivalencies for.

Trying to balance all of those factors is hard! In the rest of this article, we’ll break down each time when you might study abroad so you can get a quick sense of when the right time to study abroad is for you.

Studying Abroad in High School

When to Study Abroad - Dominique L. Carpe Diem Education Alum

While not all high schools offer international programs, if you happen to go to one that does, it’s certainly worth considering. Studying abroad in high school offers a myriad of advantages.

For one, gaining international experience at a younger age can set you up for success later in your studies and eventual career. Your time overseas will be a fantastic material for those tricky college admissions essays. If you’re considering applying to university in a foreign country and want to test it out before taking the leap, going abroad during high school can serve as a trial period.

However, there are also potential drawbacks to studying abroad during high school. Whether you or your parents are funding this excursion, going overseas during high school may mean that you won’t be able to pursue international opportunities in college without taking on additional loans.

If this is your first time living apart from your family for a long period, there’s a chance you may struggle with homesickness, loneliness, or culture shock, and have trouble adjusting without your usual support system.

Read more about the pros and cons of studying abroad in High School →

Studying Abroad as a Freshman

How Long to Study Abroad - Kaitlyn N., SIT Chile Alum

If the college of your choice allows you to study abroad as a freshman, why not seize the opportunity? You’ll likely be leaving home for school anyway, so you may as well ‘shoot for the moon’ and go to a foreign country.

You’ll have plenty of opportunities to meet new people, just as you would have on campus at your home school, but you’ll have the added bonus of being somewhere entirely foreign. You’ll learn to manage issues on your own and attain a stronger sense of independence than you would at a school within driving distance from home.

For the same reasons studying abroad in high school may inspire homesickness, going overseas immediately upon enrolling in university may have a similar effect. You’ll also miss out on freshman orientation and other social activities that universities often organize to help you integrate better into the school community where you’ll be for the next four years.

It may also be disorienting for you to deal with transferring your credits straight off the bat, while you’re still learning the ropes of registering for courses and planning your own schedule.

Read more about the pros and cons of studying abroad as a Freshman →

Studying Abroad as a Sophomore

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Most universities require that you declare a major by the end of your sophomore year. Studying abroad as a sophomore gives you the chance to experiment with your interests and take classes that normally wouldn’t have been available to you before you lock in your major.

You’ll also have two more years of school after you return to fulfill the remaining course requirements you need, so there’s not as much pressure to find the right combination of course equivalencies.

Personally, my second year of college was when I felt like I truly settled into university life and found the social and extracurricular groups that would stay with me beyond my studies. By going abroad during your sophomore year, you risk missing out on nurturing the friendships you began and cultivating the interests you began dabbling in as a freshman.

Read more about the pros and cons of studying abroad as a Sophomore →

Studying Abroad as a Junior

The Pros & Cons of Studying Abroad as a Senior

Choosing to study abroad as a junior is the most popular time to study abroad in college, and many universities recommend taking this route. Because of this, schools often build their international programs to occur during students’ third year, making the process easier for you.

If you plan from your freshman year, you’ll have more time to get all your ducks in a row before you leave. In most cases, you’ll also have finished most of your general education requirements by your junior year and will have some more flexibility in the classes you can take while overseas.

With that in mind, that doesn’t mean you’ll be home-free with your college degree by the time you’ve reached junior year. You’ll still need to make sure that your host institution has course equivalencies for the credits you still require for your program. This process can be challenging and stressful, as foreign school systems validate credits differently, and it’s up to you to make sure that you’re taking all the classes you need while you’re away.

Read more about the pros and cons of studying abroad as a Junior →

Studying Abroad as a Senior

The Pros & Cons of Studying Abroad as a Junior

Studying abroad as a senior is the choice I personally elected for, as it fit better with my program and schedule. By this time, you’ll have completed most of the requirements of your major and settled into a comfortable routine. (Some people are even so on top of it that they’re able to study abroad as a second-semester senior!)

If you’re ready to shake things up and experience something new in your last year, this is your chance! It can also be a last hurrah of sorts before you graduate. Besides, going overseas that much closer to graduation gives you the chance to pad your resume with international experience that you can apply to work almost immediately.

That being said, there are still possible downsides to studying abroad in your last year. For example, writing a thesis while away can pose more challenges. Make sure to also take note of any limitations your school may impose on overseas opportunities in your last year and how those may affect graduation.

For me, my exchange program was constrained to the fall semester to ensure that I’d receive all my credits in time for graduation. If you are able to study abroad for the full year, that may mean missing out on senior year activities with your friends.

Read more about the pros and cons of studying abroad as a Senior →

Studying Abroad Over the Summer

Is It Better to Study Abroad in High School or College?

For some, studying abroad during the school year isn’t possible because of rigorous program requirements. Fortunately, most schools have international opportunities over the summer in addition to the school year. For many students, summer is the ideal time to wander the globe or find a summer gig to get some experience on their resume.

Studying abroad over the summer combines the best of both worlds, allowing you the chance to expand your knowledge while simultaneously exploring a new destination.

However, because of time constraints, summer study abroad programs are often abridged, concluding in a matter of weeks, as opposed to months when you go during the school year. This makes it harder to fully immerse yourself in a new culture or environment. Additionally, since the summer months are prime tourist season, travel is often significantly more expensive during this time.

Regardless of when you choose to study abroad, the most important thing is that you go if you have the opportunity. Studying abroad is beneficial in so many ways, beyond fluffing up your academic record or resume. My own experience studying abroad was full of learning experiences both inside and outside of the classroom that helped shape who I am today. The skills that I learned and the friends I’ve made during my time abroad will stay with me for life. You’ll undoubtedly feel the same wherever you choose to study abroad.

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