University of Southern California
The Vibe Check
USC pulses with an ambitious, energetic vibe, fueled by its passionate Trojan alumni network and a relentless drive for success. The campus feels like a professional launchpad where glamour meets grit, and school spirit is a way of life. It’s a place where students are always networking, creating, and pushing boundaries.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
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⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
USC is a powerhouse for creative and professional fields, with top-ranked programs in film, business, and communications. The university emphasizes hands-on learning and offers abundant research opportunities through its extensive research parks and industry partnerships. Teaching quality is high, with faculty who are leaders in their respective industries.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Los Angeles
Student life in Los Angeles offers endless possibilities, from catching a movie premiere in Hollywood to hiking in the nearby Santa Monica Mountains. Students enjoy exploring diverse neighborhoods, hitting the beach, and taking advantage of the city's vibrant food and arts scene. On campus, the energy is high with Division I sports and numerous student organizations.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($92,498):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The University Park Campus is a well-patrolled and secure environment, though it is located in a dense urban setting. Students are advised to be aware of their surroundings, but the university offers extensive safety resources, including 24/7 campus patrols and the Trojan Alert system.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ The Trojan Network is one of the most powerful and loyal alumni communities in the world, offering lifetime career support.
- ✓ Prime location in Los Angeles provides unparalleled access to internships and opportunities in entertainment, tech, and business.
- ✓ Top-tier programs in high-earning fields like Business, Computer Science, and Engineering.
Cons
- ✗ High tuition cost with a significant financial investment required.
- ✗ The social scene can feel exclusive or pressure-filled due to the high-profile urban environment.
- ✗ Acceptance rate is extremely low, making admission highly competitive.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
USC is most famously known for its School of Cinematic Arts, which is considered one of the best film schools in the world. It is also highly regarded for the Marshall School of Business, the Viterbi School of Engineering, and its powerful, nationwide alumni network known as the Trojan Family.
Yes, USC is extremely selective, with an acceptance rate of just 10.02%. The middle 50% SAT range for admitted students is 1460-1550 (or 1501 average), indicating a highly competitive applicant pool with strong academic credentials.
Campus life is vibrant, social, and heavily influenced by school spirit and athletics. Students are deeply involved in Greek life, clubs, and attending Division I sporting events, particularly football games at the historic Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. The campus is also known for its unique traditions, such as Tommy Trojan and the Traveler horse.
For many students, the return on investment is strong. The 10-year median earnings of $92,498 for graduates are significantly above the national average. The combination of a prestigious degree and the career-launching power of the Trojan Network often makes the high tuition a worthwhile investment for those who actively utilize the resources.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded 1880
- Type Private
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 22,628
- In-State Tuition $68,237
- Zip Code 90089
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an average net price of $31,927, the cost can be manageable for some, though the sticker price is steep. The investment is often justified by the impressive 10-year median earnings of $92,498 and the powerful, lifelong access to the Trojan Network. The degree offers a strong ROI for those who leverage the alumni connections and prime location.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.