What is University of Southern California's acceptance rate?

University of Southern California's acceptance rate is 12%, which makes it highly selective — a reach for nearly every applicant.

What SAT or ACT score do you need for USC?

Admitted students typically score about 1410–1530 on the SAT (middle 50%) and about 32–35 on the ACT. Scores at or above this range strengthen your application, but they are one factor among many.

Is USC test-optional?

University of Southern California's current testing policy is: Test-optional. Always confirm on the school's admissions site, as policies change by cycle.

University of Southern California Acceptance Rate & How to Get In (12%)

12%

Acceptance rate

1410–1530

SAT (mid 50%)

32–35

ACT (mid 50%)

Test-optional

Testing

How hard is it to get into USC?

With a 12% acceptance rate, University of Southern California is highly selective — a reach for nearly every applicant. It enrolls roughly 21,000 undergraduates (urban setting) in Los Angeles, CA. At this level, strong grades and scores are the baseline, not the differentiator — your essays and what makes you distinctive carry real weight.

What it takes to get in

SAT: admitted students land around 1410–1530 (middle 50%). Aim for the upper end to be competitive.
ACT: the middle 50% is about 32–35.
GPA: admitted students average around 3.88. Rigor (APs/IB/honors) matters as much as the number.
Testing policy: Test-optional. Confirm on the school's site, since policies shift each cycle.
Essays: at USC's selectivity, the application essays are often what separates similar applicants. Make them specific and authentically yours.

Cost

Published tuition is about $67,000 per year before aid. Many students pay less after financial aid — check the school's net price calculator.

Notable programs

Film (SCA) · Business (Marshall) · Engineering (Viterbi) · Communication

See USC’s supplemental essay guide

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USC admissions FAQ

What is University of Southern California's acceptance rate?: University of Southern California's acceptance rate is 12%, which makes it highly selective — a reach for nearly every applicant.
What SAT or ACT score do you need for USC?: Admitted students typically score about 1410–1530 on the SAT (middle 50%) and about 32–35 on the ACT. Scores at or above this range strengthen your application, but they are one factor among many.
Is USC test-optional?: University of Southern California's current testing policy is: Test-optional. Always confirm on the school's admissions site, as policies change by cycle.

Sources & official links

USC official website
USC on College Scorecard (U.S. Department of Education)
Admissions figures compiled from the Common Data Set and IPEDS.

Figures are the most recent available from Common Data Set, IPEDS, and public reports, and are approximate. Always confirm details on University of Southern California’s official admissions site.