- Submit an electronic/scanned copy of registrar-issued transcripts (.pdf recommended) and other degree related documents through the online graduate application (International applicants, visit USC Graduate Admission’s Country Requirements page for details on required documents). Master's applicants are not required to submit hard copies of transcripts at the time of application – only electronic copies are required. This is a Viterbi School exemption only.
- Transcripts should be on university letterhead
- Unofficial transcripts from university student portals are not acceptable
- Transcripts marked unofficial are not acceptable
- If the transcript includes a separate grading scale, make sure it is uploaded
- For upload purposes, all transcript related documents for a single school must be submitted as one document
- We ask that all applicants include self-reported test scores (TOEFL, IELTS, etc.) in the online graduate application (IMPORTANT: Official test scores are required to also be submitted electronically to USC by the testing agency. GRE scores are not required for Master's applicants for Spring and Fall 2024)
- Application Tip: Initial test scores (and additional test scores) may be added after the application has been submitted. Do not hold off on submitting the application because you are waiting for test scores.
- CV/Résumé, Personal Statement, Letters of Recommendation
- Instructions for the submission of these materials can be found in the online graduate application
- Note: Go to our Program pages to check the application requirements to see which materials are required for admission to the program in which you are interested.
- Application Tip: Letters of Recommendation may be sent in by recommenders after the application has been submitted. Do not wait for letters to be received before submitting the application.
- After you submit the USC Graduate Admission application you will receive a USC ID by email typically within 2-3 days of submitting the online application. You will need to include this USC ID with all submitted materials by mail and with all correspondence with USC. It is important to note that your USC ID is different from the CAS ID you will receive when you begin your application. The CAS ID is only required for technical support during the application process and is not issued by the university.
- If your application and other required materials are received by the application deadline, you will be considered for Viterbi merit-based scholarships. (NOTE: If selected as a finalist, you may be requested to submit additional information.)
- Prospective applicants who apply by published 2024 deadlines will be considered for scholarships if admitted.
- Online DEN@Viterbi applicants can view the Master's Scholarships (DEN@Viterbi) page for scholarship opportunities.
- Instructions can be found on our FAQ section
Master's & PhD Programs: The GRE is not required for Spring 2025 and Fall 2025 applicants. Scores submitted will not be reviewed.
Step 3: English Proficiency (International Students Only)- Submit Official TOEFL/IELTS Test Scores. Full information on USC’s English proficiency requirement and test score submission instructions can be found on the USC Graduate Admission English Proficiency page.
- Official TOEFL/IELTS scores must be sent electronically to USC by the testing service (ETS or IELTS).
- Valid TOEFL/IELTS scores must be dated within two years of the date you submit your graduate application.
- Submit Proof of Financial Support documentation and passport copy for I-20 processing
- Visit Guidelines for Financial Support for information on what constitutes acceptable Proof of Financial Support and for Program Costs for I-20s, go to the Financial Documentation Requirements page.
