Hey guys! Does anyone know the general range of SAT scores that University of Southern California is looking for in their applicants? I want to see if my score is competitive enough. Thanks!
Hey! The University of Southern California (USC) is indeed competitive when it comes to SAT scores. Although they currently have a test-optional policy, at competitive schools like USC, you generally want to showcase your strengths in as many ways as possible, so you're smart to be thinking about a target SAT score. If you want more information about test-optional policies and how to navigate them, check out this blog post from CollegeVine: https://blog.collegevine.com/does-test-optional-mean-test-optional
In terms of what scores USC looks for, the middle 50% SAT score range for admitted students is usually approximately 1360 to 1500. This statistic means that 25% of accepted students scored below 1360, 25% scored above 1500, and 50% fell within this range.
To be a competitive applicant, you should aim for at least the lower end of this middle 50% range, but being on the higher end, or even above this range, would give your application a bigger boost.
Remember, USC takes a holistic approach when evaluating applications, so your SAT score is just one part of your application. Aside from test scores, they'll also consider factors like your GPA, course rigor, extracurricular activities, essays, and recommendation letters. If you're looking for tips on how to strengthen these other pieces of your application, check out this blog post from CollegeVine, which breaks down how to tackle their school-specific supplemental essays: https://blog.collegevine.com/how-to-write-the-usc-essays
To summarize, an SAT score in the 1400-1500 range would bolster your chances at USC, but you want to make sure the other elements of your application are also strong. At selective schools like USC, even a perfect 1600 won't guarantee admission on its own. Good luck with your application to USC!
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