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USC Quick Start Guide and FAQs

Welcome!

The USC Centralized Application Service simplifies the process of applying to USC programs. You start by selecting the programs you wish to apply to, then you submit one application that includes all necessary materials. Once received by USC, your application and materials are transmitted to all of your selected programs.

Start your 2023-2024 application.

Review admissions-related questions.

How long does the application process take?

It's important you apply as early as possible since completing your application can be a lengthy process, and since application processing times vary throughout the cycle. Below is a suggested timeline that includes key actions to keep the application process on track. This timeline may need to be adjusted based on your programs' deadlines and requirements.

Timeline

Key Actions

Prior to the Start of the Application Process

  1. Research the programs you wish to apply to. Pay special attention to:
    • Cycle dates and deadline requirements.
    • Application fees.
    • Recommendation requirements.
    • Minimum requirements, including prerequisites, standardized test scores, supplemental applications, foreign evaluations, etc.
  2. Begin contacting potential Recommendations to confirm their participation.
  3. Review the instructions in this Help Center, as well as our video tutorials.

At Least 3 Months Prior to Deadline

  1. Create your account.
  2. Complete the Colleges Attended section.
  3. Review program requirements and begin requesting Recommendations.

At Least 10-12 Weeks Prior to Deadline

  1. Ask your schools to send official transcripts directly to USC. If there are any holds on your account at a school, resolve them now to avoid delays in sending transcripts.
  2. Check in with your recommendations to confirm that they received the recommendation request via email.

At Least 6-8 Weeks Prior to Deadline

  1. Submit your application.
  2. Monitor your application for receipt of transcripts and letters of recommendation and follow up on any missing items.

At Least 4-6 Weeks Prior to Deadline

Continue monitoring your application until all required materials are received.

After Deadline

Download a copy of your application for your records.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Transcripts

Programs and Statuses

Fees and Payments

Do I need to send transcripts?

First, upload unofficial copies of your transcripts in the Colleges Attended section. Then submit your official transcripts to USC. See Sending Transcripts for more information.

 

Should I send my high school transcripts?

No.

 

How do I know what my primary institution is?

Your primary institution is the college or university where you earned or will earn your first undergraduate college degree.

 

How do I remove a program?

Your application must always have at least one program selected. To remove a program, click the checkmark next to the program name on the Add Program tab or click the trash icon on the Submit Application tab.

 

Can I apply to more programs after I submit my application?

Yes, if the program's deadline date has not yet passed and the application cycle is open.

 

Should I submit my application if I'm still waiting on recommendations and/or official test scores?

Yes. You can submit your application before your recommendations and/or official test scores are received by USC.

 

I submitted my application to the wrong program. What do I do?

If you would like your application to be considered for a different program, contact the school to determine if they can change your program.

 

Will USC update me on the status of my application?

Your application status for each program is listed in the Check Status section of the application. USC will notify you when recommendations and official test scores are received.

 

When will I learn about admissions decisions? Did I get in!?

You must reach out to your program(s) to learn about a school's admissions decisions.

 

Is there any other way to pay other than by credit card?

We currently only accept payments by credit card: Visa, Mastercard, and Discover.

 

I want a refund. What do I need to do?

Refunds are not given for any reason. Review Refunding/Withdrawing Your USC Application for more information.

 

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