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USAQS #116#28 in USAFounded 1880Private
Large Indian community; strong alumni network. Check your fit with the free College Predictor, see fees, IELTS/GRE requirements and the full admission process below.
▶ Predict my admission chances (free)Admission requirements & key facts
| IELTS | 6.5 |
| TOEFL iBT | 90 |
| PTE Academic | 65 |
| Duolingo | 115 |
| GRE | Optional |
| GMAT (MBA) | 680 |
| Min GPA | 3.0/4.0 |
| Work experience | Not required |
| Tuition (intl) | $48–52k/yr |
| Application fee | $90 |
| Acceptance rate | 12% |
| Intl students | 25% |
| Intakes | Fall (Sep), Spring (Jan) |
| Deadline | Dec 15 (Fall) |
| Scholarships | Merit scholarships (Viterbi) + assistantships |
Popular programs
- MS Computer Science
- MS Data Science
- MS Electrical Eng
- MS Business Analytics
- MS Cybersecurity
Known for: Engineering, Film, Business. Notable alumni: Neil Armstrong, George Lucas.
After you graduate · USA
- Post-study work: OPT: 12 months (36 months for STEM degrees)
- Visa: F-1 student visa · Work while studying: 20 hrs/week on-campus during term; full-time in breaks
- Living cost: $12,000–20,000/yr
- Documents needed: Academic transcripts, Statement of Purpose, 2–3 Letters of Recommendation, Resume / CV, GRE/GMAT (if required), IELTS / TOEFL, Application fee, Passport copy, Financial proof (I-20)
Step-by-step admission process
- Shortlist programs & note GRE/GMAT policy
- Take IELTS/TOEFL + GRE/GMAT if required
- Prepare SOP, 2–3 LORs, CV & transcripts
- Apply online (Fall deadlines Dec–Jan)
- Pay application fee; submit
- Receive decision → I-20 → F-1 visa
All figures are indicative — confirm on the official site (usc.edu).
Frequently asked questions
- What IELTS score do I need for University of Southern California?
- University of Southern California typically requires IELTS 6.5 (TOEFL 90, PTE 65). GRE: Optional.
- How much does University of Southern California cost?
- International tuition is approximately $48–52k/yr, plus living costs of $12,000–20,000/yr. Application fee: $90.
- What is the acceptance rate at University of Southern California?
- University of Southern California has an indicative acceptance rate of about 12% (Avg GRE 320 · GPA 3.5).
- What are the intakes and deadlines at University of Southern California?
- Intakes: Fall (Sep), Spring (Jan). Typical deadline: Dec 15 (Fall).