I am planning to apply to USC and wondering about their ACT requirements. What score range should I aim for to be competitive, and do they consider superscoring?
As of the 2024-2025 application cycle, the University of Southern California (USC) is a test-optional institution, meaning you have the choice to submit SAT or ACT scores, or not. However, if you choose to submit an ACT score, it can bolster your application if it's within or above the middle 50% score range for admitted students.
In past years, USC's middle 50% ACT score range has generally been between 32 to 35. So, to be competitive, you might aim for a score of around 33 or higher. However, remember again that this information can change each year based on the admitted student profiles, and you must check with the up-to-date data from USC.
USC also participates in super scoring. This means they consider the highest section score from all of your test sittings. For example, if you took the ACT twice and scored higher on Math during the first test, and higher on English during the second, USC would consider the higher Math and English scores, regardless of the test date.
In conclusion, while USC is test-optional, a strong ACT score, either overall or through super scoring, can certainly strengthen your application. Remember, the final decision doesn't rest solely on test scores. USC also weighs factors such as grades, course rigor, extracurricular involvement, and essays, amongst other elements in your application.
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