The University of Southern California (USC), located in Los Angeles, California, is a prestigious institution known for its competitive admissions process. SAT scores play a significant role in the evaluation of prospective students, serving as a key metric to assess academic readiness for the rigorous programs at USC. While the university adopts a holistic review process, strong SAT performance can enhance an applicant’s profile, demonstrating their potential to succeed in USC’s challenging academic environment. For students aiming to join the Trojan family, understanding the expected SAT score ranges and policies is crucial to crafting a competitive application.
SAT Score Ranges for Admitted Students:
- Score Range: 1460–1580 (based on recent admissions data for the middle 50% of admitted students)
- Average Score: Approximately 1520, reflecting the high academic standards at the University of Southern California (USC)
- 75th Percentile: Around 1580, indicating that top applicants often score near or at this level
Key Points:
- SAT or ACT scores are currently optional for admission to the University of Southern California (USC) due to test-optional policies implemented in recent years.
- When submitted, SAT scores are evaluated as part of a holistic review, alongside GPA, extracurriculars, essays, and other factors, rather than as a strict threshold.
- USC practices superscoring for SAT scores, meaning the admissions committee considers the highest section scores across multiple test dates to form a composite score.
- Alternatives such as Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) scores may strengthen an application, especially if SAT scores are not submitted.
- For competitive applicants, aiming for an SAT score of 1520 or higher is recommended to align with the average performance of admitted students at USC.
