Major-based Acceptance Rate at USC?

I want to apply to USC, but I've heard that acceptance rates can vary depending on the major you apply for. Does anyone have info on how drastically the acceptance rate can change based on your chosen major?

That's a great question! USC, like many other competitive universities, does not publish acceptance rates by major. The overall acceptance rate for USC was around 12% for the 2024 admissions cycle, but understand that it can fluctuate year by year due to the number and quality of applicants, among other factors.

However, keep in mind that certain programs are typically more competitive than others. For example, the School of Cinematic Arts, which is ranked highly nationally, is known to be quite competitive. Also, programs like Business Administration at the Marshall School of Business, or programs in the Viterbi School of Engineering may have lower acceptance rates due to their high demand and prestige.

Remember, admissions aren't solely about acceptance rates – they also take into account the strength of your profile and how well it aligns with the chosen major's requirements. Therefore, when choosing a major, it is crucial to consider your interests, strengths, and long-term career goals. As always, you want to choose a major that genuinely suits your passion and enthusiasm, not just one that might offer a better-perceived admissions advantage.

Lastly, if you're interested in one of the above-mentioned programs or another specific program, it could be worth reaching out to the department or USC's admissions office directly for the most accurate information. They likely won't provide specific acceptance rates, but they could give you a sense of what they're looking for in terms of student fit and qualifications.