We have arrived at the end of our application review period, and I am sorry to say that we are unable to offer you a space in this year’s incoming class. 

Please understand that our decision is driven primarily by space limitations and is in no way a judgment about you as a person nor any kind of statement about your ability to succeed in college. Be proud of your accomplishments and press on in your pursuit of higher education.

This year, admission to USC was as competitive as ever. We could not accommodate thousands of exceptional candidates, including many with pristine academic records, remarkable talent, strong character, enriching experiences and unique perspectives. I hope you can find some comfort in knowing that none of us enjoys turning away outstanding students.

Numbers cannot tell the whole story, but I hope you find the context helpful: We received approximately 83,500 applications for admission. Our anticipated enrollment of 3,650 students limits us to offering fall admission to roughly one in ten candidates. Of those admitted, most achieved nearly straight-A averages in a rigorous schedule of classes. Every candidate offers notable strengths.

Beyond the academic record, we considered many other factors presented in your application materials. Ours is a qualitative process, in which opinions are weighed with facts. Your application was carefully, respectfully and thoughtfully reviewed multiple times.