University of Southern California
Innovate. Inspire. Impact.
📍 Los Angeles, United States 🇺🇸
🏆 #27 in United States · QS World #125 · THE World #72 · ARWU #62
Quick Facts about University of Southern California
- Type: Private
- Students: 47,147
- International: 26%
- Campus: Urban
- Tuition: $73,260 – $73,260/year
- Language: English
- Student-Faculty Ratio: 8:1
- Intakes: August, January
About University of Southern California
Academics
USC excels across a diverse range of disciplines, with leading programs in engineering, cinematic arts, business, communication, and health sciences. The university embraces an interdisciplinary approach, fostering collaboration between fields to address complex contemporary challenges. Students can even design individualized programs of study that cross traditional major boundaries, supported by faculty from different disciplines. USC consistently ranks among the top 100 universities worldwide.
International Students
USC provides extensive support for international students through its Office of International Services (OIS), offering orientation programs, advising on visa regulations, and workshops for cultural integration. The university is highly diverse, with international students comprising 19% of the student body, representing over 135 countries. English proficiency is a key requirement, with accepted tests including TOEFL, IELTS, PTE, and Duolingo English Test. USC also has numerous international student organizations, such as the International Student Assembly, and various nationality clubs that promote cultural exchange and community.
Campus & Location
USC's University Park campus spans 226 acres in the Exposition Park neighborhood of Los Angeles, just two miles southwest of downtown. The campus features a blend of Romanesque Revival architecture and modern facilities, with green spaces and art installations. It is within walking distance of Los Angeles landmarks like the Shrine Auditorium and the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, and adjacent Exposition Park offers museums and recreational pursuits. The Health Sciences Campus, located northeast of downtown, houses medical and pharmacy schools, teaching hospitals, and research laboratories.
Career Outcomes
The USC Career Center provides comprehensive support for all students, including international students, with resources for job and internship searches, resume and cover letter review, and career counseling. They also offer specialized resources for international students navigating U.S. employment norms, including information on H-1B visas. USC has a strong startup and innovation culture, with programs like the Viterbi Startup Garage and the USC Stevens Center for Innovation supporting entrepreneurs. The university's location in Los Angeles provides students with unmatched exposure to various industries, including tech, entertainment, and aerospace.
Information for International Students at University of Southern California
University of Southern California in Los Angeles, United States welcomes international students, with 26% of the student body coming from abroad.
- 26% of students are international
- Visa support available
- On-campus work allowed
- Student housing available (~$1883/month)
- Work placement / internship opportunities available
- Teaching languages: English
Admissions Requirements for University of Southern California
Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to University of Southern California:
- IELTS minimum: 7
- TOEFL minimum: 100
- Duolingo minimum: 130
- GPA minimum: 3.86
- Application fee: $85
- Selectivity: Very Selective (<20%)
- Application deadline: January 15
Programs at University of Southern California (3 programs)
University of Southern California offers 3 programs across Bachelor, Master levels.
Bachelor Programs (1)
- Biological Sciences (BSc) — 48 months · English · $66,640/yr · STEM
Students gain a comprehensive understanding of living organisms, from molecular to ecosystem levels, with opportunities for specialization in areas like genetics, ecology, or neurobiology.
Field: Biology
Career outcomes: Biologist, Research Assistant, Environmental Scientist, Healthcare Professional (pre-med)
Master Programs (2)
- Music (MM) — 24 months · English · $66,640/yr
This program offers advanced study in performance, composition, musicology, or music education, fostering artistic excellence and scholarly inquiry.
Field: Music
Career outcomes: Musician, Composer, Music Educator, Music Therapist - Law (JD) — 36 months · English · $76,000/yr
This professional degree provides rigorous training in legal theory, analysis, and practice, preparing students for careers as attorneys, judges, or legal scholars.
Field: Law
Career outcomes: Attorney, Judge, Legal Counsel, Public Defender
Scholarships & Tuition at University of Southern California
Annual tuition for international students: $73,260 – $73,260/year
✅ University of Southern California offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.
Rankings of University of Southern California
- National Ranking: #27 in United States
- QS World University Ranking: #125
- Times Higher Education (THE): #72
- Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU): #62
- Ranking tier: Research University
- Research output: Very High
Campus & Facilities at University of Southern California
- Student housing available
- Sports facilities available
- No disability support info
- Campus type: Urban
- Average class size: 26
- Housing cost: ~$1883/month
Key Highlights
- Top-tier academics, diverse programs
- Global research powerhouse
- Vibrant Los Angeles campus
- Strong international community
- Excellent support for students
Accreditation
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges - Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
Notable Alumni
- George Lucas
- Will Ferrell
- Neil Armstrong
- John Wayne
- Ron Howard
Frequently Asked Questions about University of Southern California
What is University of Southern California?
University of Southern California is a private university located in Los Angeles, United States. It has approximately 47,147 students, with 26% being international students.
How much does it cost to study at University of Southern California?
Tuition fees at University of Southern California for international students range from $73,260 – $73,260/year. Student housing costs approximately $1883/month. Scholarships are available for international students.
What are the admission requirements for University of Southern California?
IELTS minimum: 7. TOEFL minimum: 100. Duolingo minimum: 130. GPA minimum: 3.86. Application fee: $85. Selectivity: Very Selective (<20%). Application deadline: January 15.
What language are courses taught in at University of Southern California?
Courses at University of Southern California are taught in English. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 7.
How many programs does University of Southern California offer?
University of Southern California offers 3 programs: 1 Bachelor's, 2 Master's, and 0 PhD programs across various fields of study.
What is University of Southern California ranked?
#27 in United States · QS World #125 · THE World #72 · ARWU #62.
Does University of Southern California offer scholarships?
Yes, University of Southern California offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.
Does University of Southern California provide visa support?
Yes, University of Southern California provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available. On-campus work opportunities are available.
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