<p>I submitted my application before the December 1st deadline to be considered for scholarships. Don't know much about them, but figured it couldn't hurt!</p>
<p>Has anyone received one before? What are the usual characteristics of a candidate? When do you find out if you have been offered an interview? </p>
<p>Thanks! </p>
<p>You find out you’ve been offered an interview in Jan/early feb</p>
<p>Lots and lots of information compiled on this thread: <a href=“http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/university-southern-california/1597366-tips-insights-observations-and-scoop-on-uscs-top-merit-scholarships.html#latest”>http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/university-southern-california/1597366-tips-insights-observations-and-scoop-on-uscs-top-merit-scholarships.html#latest</a></p>
<p>The link takes you to the end, but start at the beginning.</p>
<p>The selection is holistic. It is not all about scores. Keep in mind SC has many smaller scholarships which are also given to freshmen that do not require an interview.</p>
<p>If you have the grades and honors/awards to consider SC do apply for local scholarships. Some of these are far less competitive. Many civic, religious, corporations, ethnic groups, business, historical and other organizations offer scholarships. </p>
<p>There are other non-interview merit awards. My S was awarded a Leadership Award- $10,000 each year for 4 years. It just showed up in his FA package.</p>
<p>Usually, National Merit Semifinalists will usually be asked to interview because USC accepts a lot of NMFs (which boosts their rankings). However, this is not a guarantee that NMSFs will be admitted; they have a very high chance of being admitted.</p>