Cerritos College transfer to USC requirements

I'm eyeing a transfer from Cerritos College to USC. What are the key things I should keep in mind regarding GPA, recommendations, and extracurriculars for a successful application?

Transfer requirements for the University of Southern California (USC) can be broken down into a few key categories:

1. GPA: USC typically looks for well-qualified transfer candidates with a GPA of 3.7 or higher within a rigorous curricular framework. However, GPA requirements can vary across majors, with some highly competitive programs like Cinematic Arts, Business, Architecture, and some engineering disciplines requiring even higher GPAs.

2. Coursework: USC prefers applicants who have completed a minimum of 30 semester units (or 45 quarter units) that are transferable. Coursework should demonstrate strong academic achievement. While they do not have strict prerequisites, it's recommended that you complete two courses each in Math, Science, English, and Social Science/Humanities prior to the transfer.

3. USC doesn't require letters of recommendation for transfer applicants, so you don’t have to worry much about that. However, if a recommendation could offer unique perspective or illumination on certain aspects of your profile, you can opt to include it.

4. Extracurricular activities: These are a factor that can make a difference, especially for borderline applicants. Having a few Tier 1 to Tier 3 activities can demonstrate leadership, passion, depth of engagement, or a unique skill set that could contribute to the campus community.

5. As part of your application, you'll also need to complete some USC-specific writing supplements. Be sure to allow yourself enough time to do a good job on these essays, as they are a key component of your application.

6. Lastly, keep in mind USC’s transfer deadline in February for fall semester. USC does not have a spring intake for transfer students.

Hope this information helps in your transfer journey! Good luck!