Apply
USC is aware that some countries are experiencing extreme circumstances caused by armed conflict, social unrest or natural disasters. As a result, some prospective applicants from these countries may experience difficulties or delays in providing required documents such as transcripts or test scores, or with paying the application fee. If you anticipate such difficulties, please contact your intended department to discuss your options. We are here to help.

Step 1: Review Program and Application Requirements

Application Instructions: Before you begin your application to USC, please make sure to read all the application instructions carefully. While you will be able to add to certain segments on the application (e.g. test scores) post submission, you will not be able to make revisions once the application has been submitted. Submitting incorrect information on your application or failing to include important details can delay the admissions process.

Deadlines: Since application deadlines vary by program, be sure to confirm your intended program’s deadline to ensure that you apply on time.

You should also use the months leading up to the deadline to complete the following steps:

  1. GRE/GMAT and Other Tests: Schedule the GRE or GMAT as per your program requirement. Your scores are considered valid only if earned within five years to the month of your intended first term at USC. (For example, no earlier than August 1 five years prior if applying for the fall term).
  2. Resumé/Curriculum Vitae: There is no ‘right’ approach to structuring your resumé/CV when updating it to apply for graduate school. However, it is a good idea to take some time to identify the skills and achievements you would like to highlight for your graduate program and structure the document accordingly. Please note, you will be required to upload a copy of your resumé/CV as part of your application.
  3. Recommendation Letters: Identify potential recommenders and let them know that you would like them to write a recommendation for you. The minimum number of recommendation letters required varies by program. Additionally, recommendations may be optional for some programs at USC.

Step 2: Review Country-Specific Requirements for Documents and English-Language Proficiency

Review the country-specific guidelines USC provides to determine our transcript requirements for your country of study. The checklist will also help you determine whether or not you are required to submit English-language proficiency scores.

Apply