I know this question seems really stupid but USC is my top choice (the only school I really care about)… so yeah…I am just wondering about my chances of getting into USC based on past experiences.
I am an international student…
SAT: 1420 (superscore…math → 780 & Eng → 640)
GPA UW: 3.89
GPA W: 4.45
First Choice: Marshall
I think my writing supplements were really really good. I would give myself 9/10 for all three essays… but I was trying to make the Dec 1st deadline and I messed up the extracurricular section in Common App. I finished it last minute so I only put in 4 extracurricular activities out of 15 that I have… it was just really sloppy… with mistyped words etc… idk how much this affects my application…
In terms of getting “Chanced” for USC, it is virtually impossible for others to predict what may or may not occur in your specific case. With an admit rate now below 12% and falling, and with 4K+ applicants with 4.0 unweighted GPAs and test scores in the 99th percentile among those not gaining admission, your success will instead likely depend on too many potential factors for anyone to correctly evaluate… making predicting admission nearly impossible. But this also shows that they admit many without perfect grades or test scores. They are after all seeking to craft a well-rounded and diverse freshman class comprised of those who actually have a strong affinity for or connection to USC. They do aim to admit those who they project will thrive well at USC and bring something unique to the campus environment.
So your individual admission decision will likely come down to a composite and holistic analysis of your stats coupled with writing ability / essays, ECs, potential leadership roles, potential other unique qualifiers (URM, First Gen, geography, demographics, etc.), your Why USC? explanation/reasoning, etc. And that “Why USC?” explanation is likely the most important single component of your application. You do need to provide a well-thought out and well-researched answer as to why attending USC is truly significant and important to you specifically. And moreover, USC does want to gain a sense as to what you will be uniquely contributing to the greater USC community if admitted.
I suggest reading through the very helpful insider’s guide to USC admissions…