USC: Class of 2028 Acceptance Rate
Discover the USC Class of 2028 acceptance rate, early action statistics, GPA and test score ranges, and tips to strengthen your application to the University of Southern California.
If you’re aiming for the University of Southern California (USC), understanding the USC Class of 2028 acceptance rate is crucial. With a record-low acceptance rate of 9.2%, USC remains one of the most selective universities in the United States. This means that for every 100 applicants, only about 9 were admitted. In this guide, we’ll break down the acceptance rates by decision round, provide insights into the academic profiles of admitted students, and offer tips to enhance your chances of acceptance.
USC Acceptance Rate Breakdown
Early Action vs. Regular Decision
Did you know that applying early can significantly impact your chances of admission? For the Class of 2028, USC received over 82,000 applications and admitted approximately 7,550 students, resulting in an overall acceptance rate of 9.2%.
| Decision Type | Applicants | Admitted | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Early Action | 40,953 | 2,938 | 7% |
| Regular Decision | 41,077 | 4,612 | 11.2% |
Note: Spring admits are not included in the published acceptance rate.
As shown in the table, early action applicants had a 7% acceptance rate, while regular decision applicants had an 11.2% acceptance rate. This indicates that applying early may slightly improve your chances, though the difference is not substantial.
Academic Profile of Admitted Students
What does it take academically to be admitted to USC? Let’s look at the academic profiles of admitted students for the Class of 2028.
- Average GPA: 3.85–4.00 (unweighted)
- SAT Range: 1460–1540
- ACT Range: 32–35
These figures suggest that successful applicants typically have near-perfect GPAs and high standardized test scores. However, USC employs a holistic admissions process, meaning they also consider extracurricular activities, essays, and letters of recommendation.
Tips to Strengthen Your Application
Given USC’s competitive admissions process, it’s essential to present a strong application. Here are some tips to enhance your chances:
- Maintain a High GPA: Aim for a GPA close to 4.0.
- Achieve High Test Scores: While USC is test-optional, strong SAT or ACT scores can bolster your application.
- Engage in Meaningful Extracurriculars: Participate in activities that demonstrate leadership and commitment.
- Write Compelling Essays: Use your essays to showcase your personality, passions, and reasons for wanting to attend USC.
- Secure Strong Letters of Recommendation: Obtain recommendations from teachers who know you well and can speak to your strengths.
Tip: Consider applying early action to demonstrate your interest in USC and potentially improve your chances of admission.
The USC Class of 2028 acceptance rate underscores the university’s selectivity. While the overall acceptance rate stands at 9.2%, applying early action and presenting a strong academic and extracurricular profile can enhance your chances of admission. Remember, USC looks for students who not only excel academically but also contribute to the campus community through their unique experiences and perspectives.
FAQs
- What is the USC acceptance rate for the Class of 2028? The acceptance rate is 9.2%, with approximately 7,550 students admitted out of over 82,000 applicants.
- Does USC consider legacy status in admissions? Yes, USC considers legacy status, but it is just one of many factors in the holistic admissions process.
- Is it better to apply early action to USC? Applying early action can demonstrate your interest in USC, but the difference in acceptance rates between early action and regular decision is not substantial.
- What GPA do I need to get into USC? The average GPA for admitted students is between 3.85 and 4.00 (unweighted).
- Are SAT or ACT scores required for USC admissions? USC is test-optional, meaning you can choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores. However, strong test scores can enhance your application.