University of Southern California Scholarship 2026 For international students

University of Southern California Scholarship

Looking for a University of Southern California scholarship that can help you cover tuition, housing, or academic expenses?

USC offers a wide variety of scholarships to support both undergraduate and graduate students. From full-tuition awards to program-specific aid, students have many options to reduce the financial burden of attending one of California’s top private research universities.

Types of USC Scholarships

USC scholarships are categorized into merit-based, need-based, talent-based, and departmental awards.

  • Trustee Scholarship covers full tuition
  • Presidential Scholarship offers half-tuition awards
  • Deans Scholarship provides up to a quarter-tuition
  • National Merit Finalist Scholarships for recognized students
  • USC Associates Scholarships for academic excellence
  • Leadership Scholarships for community and school involvement
  • Legacy Scholarships for children of USC alumni
  • International Student Scholarships
  • Athletic Scholarships for NCAA athletes
  • Departmental Scholarships for specific majors

Apply also: University of Virginia Scholarship

How to Apply for USC Scholarships

Applying for USC scholarships is often automatic with your application, but some awards require additional steps.

  • Submit USC Common Application by December 1
  • Complete the USC Writing Supplement
  • Provide high school transcripts and test scores (optional)
  • Submit FAFSA and CSS Profile for need-based aid
  • Upload portfolios for talent-based scholarships
  • Apply separately for departmental scholarships
  • Keep a strong GPA and leadership record
  • Highlight community service and extracurriculars
  • Track deadlines for additional forms
  • Monitor your USC applicant portal regularly

Apply also: University of Oregon Scholarship

USC Merit Scholarships

Merit scholarships are awarded based on academic excellence, leadership, and achievements—regardless of financial need.

  • Trustee: Full-tuition, around 100 awarded yearly
  • Presidential: Half-tuition, about 200 recipients
  • Deans: Quarter-tuition, highly competitive
  • Mork Family Scholarship includes full tuition + stipend
  • Stamps Scholarship offers enrichment funds
  • USC Associates Scholarship for California residents
  • Alumni Award scholarships for active community members
  • Discovery Scholars for research-based achievements
  • Global Scholars for international experience
  • Scholarships tied to National Merit recognition

Apply also: Western New Mexico University Scholarship

Need-Based Financial Aid and Grants

USC also provides need-based financial aid determined by family income and assets.

  • Requires FAFSA submission
  • CSS Profile must be completed
  • Income verification documents may be needed
  • Grant amounts vary by individual need
  • Federal Pell Grants available
  • USC University Grants supplement other aid
  • Cal Grants for California residents
  • Federal Work-Study options for part-time employment
  • Student loans included in aid packages
  • Renewable annually with satisfactory progress

Apply also: Washington State University Scholarship

Departmental and Program-Specific Scholarships

Many USC schools offer unique scholarships tailored to specific programs or fields of study.

  • Viterbi School of Engineering offers merit-based awards
  • Annenberg School for Communication scholarships for media students
  • Marshall School of Business grants for business majors
  • USC School of Cinematic Arts offers creative scholarships
  • Thornton School of Music supports music talent
  • School of Architecture provides design-based scholarships
  • Keck School of Medicine offers limited pre-med scholarships
  • School of Dramatic Arts funds talented performers
  • USC Gould School of Law offers merit scholarships
  • Departmental advisors guide students on eligibility

Apply also: University of West Florida Scholarship

Scholarships for International Students

USC welcomes international applicants and offers limited scholarships specifically for them.

  • Merit-based scholarships available to internationals
  • Full eligibility for Trustee, Presidential, and Deans
  • No separate international scholarship form required
  • Financial documentation may be required
  • TOEFL/IELTS scores for non-native speakers
  • Additional consideration for global leadership
  • Involvement in international activities helps
  • Global Scholars Program for overseas projects
  • Cultural ambassador roles are valued
  • Must meet USC application deadlines

Apply also: University of Wyoming Scholarship

Athletic Scholarships at USC

As a Division I NCAA school, USC offers athletic scholarships across multiple sports.

  • Available in football, basketball, and track
  • Scholarships also in tennis, swimming, golf
  • Awards cover full or partial tuition
  • Housing and meal plans may be included
  • Offered by athletic department coaches
  • Performance and academics considered
  • NCAA eligibility rules apply
  • Must register with the NCAA Eligibility Center
  • Coaches actively recruit from high schools
  • Applications tied to athletic performance

Apply also: University of Southern Indiana Scholarship

Table: Key USC Scholarships Overview

Scholarship NameAward TypeEligibility FocusAward Value
Trustee ScholarshipMeritAcademic excellenceFull tuition
Presidential ScholarshipMeritStrong academicsHalf tuition
Dean’s ScholarshipMeritHigh GPA, leadershipQuarter tuition
Mork Family ScholarshipMerit + NeedAcademic + financial needFull + $11,000 stipend
Stamps ScholarshipMeritEnrichment + academicsFull + enrichment fund

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I get a full scholarship to the University of Southern California?

Apply early by December 1, maintain a high GPA, showcase leadership and community involvement, and qualify for merit-based awards like the Trustee or Mork Family Scholarship.

Does USC offer scholarships for international students?

Yes, international students are eligible for most merit-based scholarships, including the Trustee and Presidential Scholarships.

Do I need to apply separately for USC scholarships?

Most major scholarships are considered automatically with your USC application, but some departmental or talent-based awards require additional submissions.

What GPA is required for a USC scholarship?

There is no set GPA, but successful scholarship applicants typically have a GPA of 3.8 or higher.

Can transfer students receive scholarships at USC?

Yes, but fewer scholarships are available. Transfer applicants are primarily eligible for need-based aid and limited merit awards.

Are USC scholarships renewable?

Yes, most scholarships are renewable each year, provided the student maintains academic progress and meets the award terms.

Do I need to submit the FAFSA for merit scholarships?

No, the FAFSA is required only for need-based financial aid. Merit scholarships are awarded based on academic and extracurricular performance.

Can I combine multiple USC scholarships?

Generally, students receive one primary USC scholarship. Other awards may supplement but cannot exceed the total cost of attendance.

Is USC generous with scholarships?

USC offers competitive and sizable scholarships, especially for high-achieving students, but it’s still considered a high-cost private university.

When is the USC scholarship deadline?

To be considered for top merit scholarships, applicants must submit their complete USC application by December 1.

Conclusion

Earning a University of Southern California scholarship can significantly lower your education costs. With a variety of merit-based, need-based, and program-specific awards, USC supports students from diverse backgrounds to succeed academically.

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