University of Southern California
A research university in central Los Angeles known for strong film, media, and business programs, and an expansive network in entertainment and tech.
- Next deadline
- Nov 1, 2026Early Action
- Essays
- 3Prompts
- Supplement
- Required2026-2027 cycle
- Platform
- Common AppAccepted platform
- Selectivity
- 9.2%Highly selective
- Enrollment
- 20,790Large undergrad
Build your University of Southern California application plan
Track the deadline, review every supplemental essay prompt, and shape each response around one clear admissions story.
Application deadlines
Supplemental essay prompts
- Supplement250 words2026-2027
USC believes that one learns best when interacting with people of different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. Tell us about a time you were exposed to a new idea or perspective that changed yours.
- Short Answer10 words2026-2027
Describe yourself in three words.
- Short Answer10 words2026-2027
What is your favorite snack?
How to approach University of Southern California's supplemental essays
Choose a role before you draft
Decide what this essay should add to the application: evidence, range, bridge, or a new window into your life. Avoid repeating the Common App essay in miniature.
Answer fast, then show texture
Start with the answer, then add one detail only you could write. Short answers get stronger when they sound observed instead of summarized.
Answer fast, then show texture
Start with the answer, then add one detail only you could write. Short answers get stronger when they sound observed instead of summarized.
Use this as a blank structure for a University of Southern California supplement response, then replace every bracket with your own specifics.
- Open on [specific scene, object, problem, or conversation].
- Show what [choice/action/constraint] reveals about how you think.
- Connect that trait to [school program, community, lab, class, or value].
- End with the contribution you want to make at University of Southern California, not a compliment.
Need more help with this application?
Use our guides to plan your supplement, sharpen your Why Us research, and review your draft before you submit.
Frequently asked questions
How many supplemental essays does University of Southern California require?
University of Southern California has 3 supplemental essays listed for the 2026-2027 application cycle, in addition to the shared application essay.
Does University of Southern California accept the Common Application?
Yes — University of Southern California accepts the Common Application.
What is University of Southern California's acceptance rate?
University of Southern California's most recently reported acceptance rate is 9.2%.
When is University of Southern California's next application deadline?
University of Southern California's next listed application deadline is the Early Action round on November 1, 2026.
What is University of Southern California's "USC believes that one learns best…" prompt (#1, 250 words)?
USC believes that one learns best when interacting with people of different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. Tell us about a time you were exposed to a new idea or perspective that changed yours.
What is University of Southern California's "Describe yourself in three words…" prompt (#2, 10 words)?
Describe yourself in three words.
What is University of Southern California's "What is your favorite snack…" prompt (#3, 10 words)?
What is your favorite snack?
Sources and verification
We prioritize University of Southern California's official admissions pages for school-specific prompts and deadlines, then use application-platform and federal sources as cross-checks. This record is labeled for the 2026-2027 cycle but still needs a fresh verification pass.
Review official source →