It's time to rethink college tours
Traditional campus tours feel impersonal and can leave you with more questions than answers. You’re just a face in the crowd following a scripted tour led by a random guide. Is this really the best way to make one of the biggest decisions of your life?
SchoolScoops is the smarter, more personal way to tour colleges
Private and personalized tours
With traditional tours you’re just a number in a big group, making it hard to ask the questions that matter most. With SchoolScoops 1-on-1 tours and video chats you can ask all the questions that are important to you.
Choose your own guide
On a typical college tour, the school assigns you a guide. SchoolScoops lets you pick a guide who matches your academic interests, hobbies, and personality. You'll get authentic insights and advice from someone who truly gets you.
No scripts, just scoops
Traditional campus tours are essentially a sales pitch—the guide works for the school and their job is to show you the highlights. SchoolScoops guides don’t work for their school, so there’s no sales pitch—just genuine advice to determine if the school is a good fit.
Find the school for you
Choosing where to go to college is a major decision and a huge investment. SchoolScoops 1-on-1 tours and video chats go beyond the basics to help you make a well-informed college decision.
Choose your guide
Can't make it to campus?
Connect with a student of your choice for personalized advice and insider insights during a 1-on-1 video chat
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What customers are saying
Get to know USC
The University of Southern California is a private research university in Los Angeles, California, United States. Founded in 1880 by Robert M. Widney, USC is the oldest private research university in California, and has an enrollment of more than 49,000 students.
Overview
Founded in 1880, USC is a private research university located in Los Angeles, California. Renowned for its diverse range of programs, strong emphasis on research, vibrant campus life, and competitive athletic teams, USC offers a comprehensive educational experience.
Size
As of fall 2023, USC's total enrollment is approximately 48,945 students, with 20,699 undergraduates and 28,246 graduate students.
Acceptance rate
USC has an acceptance rate of approximately 12%. The middle 50% of admitted students have an SAT score between 1500 and 1570 or an ACT score between 34 and 35.
Cost
For the 2024–2025 academic year undergraduate tuition and fees were $71,647. Graduate tuition and fees vary by program; specific details can be found on USC's official website. USC is committed to making education accessible by bridging the gap between the cost of attendance and what families pay out of pocket.
Ranking
According to U.S. News & World Report, USC is ranked #28 out of 436 National Universities.
Academics
USC offers a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines. The university maintains a student-to-faculty ratio that fosters close interaction between students and professors.
Traditions
The University of Southern California's traditions include the Trojan Marching Band’s Spirit of Troy performances, the Victory Bell rivalry with UCLA, the annual Swim with Mike charity event, the Lighting of the Torch during Trojan Family Weekend, and the singing of Fight On to celebrate school pride.
Campus landmarks
USC's best landmarks include the iconic Tommy Trojan statue, the historic Doheny Memorial Library, the USC Village, Bovard Auditorium, and the University Park Campus Fountain, all reflecting its blend of tradition and modernity.
Student body
Over 60% of USC students come from outside California, with strong representation from New York, Texas, Illinois, Washington, and Florida, along with a globally diverse international student body from over 130 countries.
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Become a guideYour USC questions, answered
Is USC Difficult to Get Into?
Yes, the University of Southern California (USC) is highly selective, with an acceptance rate of 10-12%. Strong academic performance, along with a competitive application, is essential for admission.
What GPA Do You Need to Get Into USC?
USC doesn’t have a minimum GPA requirement, but most admitted students have a 3.7 or higher. The average GPA for the Class of 2027 was 3.86, and competitive applicants typically take AP, IB, or Honors courses. Aiming for a 3.79+ GPA, along with strong extracurriculars and essays, improves your chances.
What Is USC Known For?
USC is renowned for its top academics, research, and athletics. It excels in business, engineering, communication, and the arts, with the School of Cinematic Arts producing stars like George Lucas. USC’s football team boasts 11 national titles and 8 Heisman winners, and its Annenberg and Marshall schools are highly respected.
What Is the Student Population Size of the University of Southern California?
As of fall 2023, USC has an undergraduate enrollment of 21,023 students.
What Majors Is USC Known For?
USC is known for its strong programs in business, engineering, communication, journalism, visual and performing arts, social sciences, and computer science. Its Marshall School of Business and School of Cinematic Arts are especially prestigious.
Where Do Most USC Students Live?
Most USC students live in University Park, West Adams, or Jefferson Park, as well as off-campus housing near 28th and 29th Street, Figueroa Street, and Vermont Street. Many also reside in USC Village, a large residential and retail hub with dorms, dining, and shopping. While USC offers on-campus housing, some students choose off-campus apartments for more space and amenities.
Is the University of Southern California Expensive?
Yes, USC is a high-cost private university, with tuition around $69,000 for the 2024-25 academic year. Additional expenses for housing, meals, and fees make the total cost even higher, but financial aid and scholarships are available to help offset costs.
Does University of Southern California offer private campus tours?
Yes, through SchoolScoops, you can book a private campus tour led by a student guide of your choice.
How Can You Tour the University of Southern California?
USC offers in-person guided tours, self-guided tours, and virtual tours. You can schedule a guided tour through the USC Admissions website, explore campus independently with a self-guided tour map, or take a virtual tour online. Visit the USC Admissions website for more details.
Interested in other schools?
SchoolScoops also offers tours and video chats at many other schools
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