The University of Southern California

“Just do well on yourAug 20 2004Biology
Just do well on your SAT's and have a decent GPA (as long as it's over 3.0). Suck up to the interviewer too. Oh, and have a huge positive balance in your checking account...this is also a big admissions factor.
SAT: 1430 Male

“I went to USC in the early 1980'sAug 05 2004Other
I went to USC in the early 1980's. I am sure the university is much changed today. I was from the east coast and at that time USC was trying to reach outside of California and diversify its student population from across the US and had many international students. I transferred from a junior college with better than average grades. My SAT was below 1000. I choose USC because of the music program I enrolled in. The progam was ok but I later switch to LAS.

USC has a lot of school spirit and will follow you after graduation. The majority of graduates are in California. So if you plan to leave after graduation the school name has less clout than in California. Overall the university has a good reputation and some of the schools are highly ranked. USC is an expensive school to attend and does have financial aid but you will graduated with some debt.

If USC is on your list I suggest only to attend if the program is well ranked in the field of study and is cost effective compared to other choices. In the end it is the education you receive, your grades and own ambition that will be you future. A particular stamped education will only take you so far.
Male

“USC has gotten really competitive in the last fewAug 04 2004Journalism
USC has gotten really competitive in the last few years. You will need a gpa of at lest a 3.8 or higher and an SAT of at least 1350. If you are on the lower end of those numbers, definately do the personal interview. Submit your AP scores and any college classes you took in hs too.
ACT: 31 SAT: 1390 Male

“Get good grades andJun 14 2004Electrical Engineering
Get good grades and test scores, they will pay you to
come.
SAT: 1540 Male

“I had a 3May 24 2004Communications
I had a 3.9 gpa and 1400 sat. I think that is about average. I was involved in lots of leadership and volunteer activities too. Volunteerism is really important here at SC, and it's a great thing to talk about in your interview. They want go-getters here; social, active, involved students. I also had summer college credits going in, which I would highly reccomend. Basically, work your butt off in high school to get in here, and believe me, it will really pay off.
ACT: 29 SAT: 1390 Female