University of Southern California SAT & ACT Scores

USC suspended its test requirement for students applying for fall 2021 entry and has continued the test-optional policy each year since. When you apply, you indicate whether you want scores considered, and USC says students who don't send scores are not penalized or put at a disadvantage. Unlike many test-optional schools, USC does not accept self-reported scores: if you want your SAT or ACT reviewed, the testing agency must send official scores. USC suggests finishing testing at least a month before you apply so the scores arrive with your file. It records your highest section scores across sittings on both the SAT and ACT. International applicants are not required to send scores either, though some use an SAT or ACT score to show English proficiency.

Enrolled first-year students who sent the SAT had a median of 1510. The middle half scored 1470–1540, which means a quarter scored 1470 or lower and a quarter scored 1540 or higher. Section ranges were 720–760 in Reading and Writing and 740–790 in Math.

Only 33% of the enrolled class sent SAT scores. Because USC is test-optional, these numbers describe students who chose to have their scores considered, not the whole class. Students who enrolled without scores are not part of these ranges.

If your SAT is at or above 1510, it falls in the upper half of what enrolled submitters reported. If it is below 1470, you may decide your application is stronger without it. Either way, remember that sending scores to USC means ordering an official report, so decide early.

The middle half of enrolled students who sent the ACT scored 32–35, with a median composite of 33. English scores ran 33–35 and Math scores ran 30–35. USC records your highest section scores across ACT sittings.

12% of the enrolled class sent ACT scores. As with the SAT, these figures come only from students who chose to submit. A composite at or above 35 puts you in the top quarter of that group; a score below 32 sits under the range most submitters had.

For most majors, USC offers binding Early Decision, non-binding Early Action, and Regular Decision. Performing arts majors in dance, dramatic arts and music apply only through Regular Decision. Students who want to be considered for USC merit scholarships should apply by the early deadline, or by the performing arts deadline for those majors.

If you plan to send scores to USC, a practical target is an SAT of 1540 or an ACT of 35, the top quarter of enrolled submitters. Scores near 1510 or 33 are in the middle. Because USC is test-optional for fall 2027 and admitted 11.2% of applicants, you may choose to leave out scores well below 1470 or 32.

USC describes its admission process as holistic and says it can judge potential without test scores. Your transcript, course choices, essays, recommendation and any portfolio or audition your major requires all count. USC also says it has never awarded merit aid based on test-score or GPA cut-offs, so a missing score does not rule you out of scholarship review.