How competitive is the architecture program at USC?

I've submitted my application for USC's architecture program and it seems quite selective. Does anyone know about its acceptance rate and the average profile of accepted students?

USC's Architecture program is indeed quite competitive. While the School of Architecture doesn't specifically publish its acceptance rate, you can get an idea of the competition by looking at the broader university statistics. As of 2024, USC accepts, generally, about 10-15% of the applicants. However, each program may have slightly different acceptance rates due to its specific selection criteria, program size, and the number of applicants.

USC emphasizes a comprehensive evaluation of each applicant's academic performance and potential. The average high school GPA for admitted USC students is around a 3.79 unweighted and on the high end of the scale.

For Architecture specifically, USC focuses on creativity, curiosity, and dedication to the field in addition to academic achievement. Portfolios, for example, offering evidence of personal creativity, are considered significant application components.

It's also worth noting that USC values a well-rounded education. Successful applicants are expected to show depth and excellence in a challenging course load that includes AP, IB, or Honors courses, and demonstrate involvement in extracurricular activities. These could range from leadership positions, community service, internships, or participation in competitions.

While the profile above might be typical for an admitted student, remember that these are averages and not cutoffs. The admissions process is holistic, which means that all parts of your application, including essays, extracurricular involvement, and reference letters are evaluated.