University of Southern California SAT & ACT scores.
University of Southern California is among the most selective universities in the United States. In the latest admission cycle (for the Class of 2028), USC received roughly 80,000 applications and offered admission to only about 10,400 students—an acceptance rate near 13%. That means just around 13 in 100 applicants earn a spot, underscoring USC's high standards and competitive environment year after year.
About 31% of applicants submit an SAT score and 19% an ACT score.
USC's Early Action plan is non-binding. It admits a significant portion of each class (around half of enrolled students often come through EA). Applying Early Action signals that USC is your top choice and usually boosts admission chances. However, because EA is non-binding, students can still consider other offers if admitted.
Testing policy has evolved. USC was test-optional in recent years, but for the 2025–26 admissions cycle (for fall 2026 entry), USC will require SAT or ACT scores again (with hardship exceptions). In other words, applicants next year must submit test results. Even before this change, nearly all successful applicants who reported scores were at the very top of the national scale, reflecting USC's rigorous academic profile.
SAT scores
For USC's average SAT scores, admitted students' middle-50% composite SAT range is roughly 1410–1540. This elite band mirrors USC's high academic expectations and means admitted students typically score near the top of the national distribution.
For section detail: the SAT Reading and Writing component (formerly called Evidence-Based Reading & Writing) for USC's admitted students falls around 690–750 for the middle 50%. These scores reflect the critical reading, writing, and analytical skills USC expects across all majors.
On the Math portion, USC's middle-50% range is about 720–790. This upper-tier performance signals comfort with advanced algebra, data analysis, and precalculus—skills that USC seeks in both STEM and quantitatively rigorous social science applicants.
If you're wondering about a USC average SAT, aim for the mid-1500s. USC evaluates applications holistically, so scores below 1410 don't automatically disqualify you. But in such a competitive pool, you'll need compensating strengths (like outstanding coursework, unique talents, or leadership impact) to remain viable.
Policy note: USC superscores the SAT. They consider your highest Reading and Writing and Math section scores from all test dates. In practice, this means a weak section can be improved with a retake, boosting how your USC SAT scores are evaluated.
ACT scores
Looking at USC's ACT range, the middle 50% of composite scores is about 32–35. This implies most admitted students are scoring at or near the top percentile nationally. In other words, USC ACT results cluster in the mid-30s, reflecting the school's competitive applicant pool.
By section, admitted students tend to excel in English (ACT Reading and Writing). The middle 50% for ACT English is approximately 34–35, meaning the average admitted student often scores a 34 or above on this section. These scores demonstrate the strong critical reading and communication skills USC expects.
ACT Math scores at USC are similarly high: the middle 50% falls around 30–35. While there's a bit more spread than English, competitive applicants still show very strong quantitative fluency. Many engineering or economics hopefuls, for example, hit scores in the mid-30s on ACT Math.
USC superscores the ACT just as it does the SAT, taking the highest section scores across multiple test dates. The optional writing section is not required, but applicants may submit it if it strengthens their profile. Using superscoring, you can focus on improving any weaker sections in additional attempts.
If you're estimating a USC average ACT, plan around 35. Given USC's low admit rate, even moving from a 32 to 35 can enhance your profile. Pair high test scores with rigorous coursework, standout essays, and meaningful extracurriculars to maximize your chances.
Admission numbers
Here's the reality: USC's admit rate is only about 13%, with roughly 80,000 applications for about 10,400 spots (around 3,200 students actually enroll). That's why understanding the USC average SAT and USC average ACT benchmarks matters—they align with the profile of those admitted. If your scores fall near or above USC's 75th percentile (around a 1540 SAT or 35 ACT), you're in stronger territory.
That said, USC emphasizes holistic review. Admissions officers weigh coursework rigor, grades, essays, recommendations, and personal qualities. In a pool full of near-perfect transcripts, however, top-tier SAT/ACT scores help confirm to USC that you're ready for the academic rigor. In short, scores aren't everything, but they remain a key part of the competitive signal.
Strategy snapshot: If USC is your clear first choice, applying Early Action could improve your odds by signaling commitment. Take advantage of superscoring by retaking tests to shore up any weak section. Also balance test prep with maintaining strong senior-year classes and crafting compelling essays. Meet USC's testing bar (target near the top of the USC SAT and ACT ranges) and then win the admissions read with the rest of your profile.
Similar schools to compare
Weighing your options? These schools have comparable selectivity: