USC essay prompts
2025-26verified University of Southern California admissions
These are the most recent published prompts. Final 2026-27 supplements typically land by early August. These are the most recent prompts Kolly has verified for this school. Schools typically publish final 2026-27 supplements by early August; check the official source below before submitting.
Why USC & Major
Describe how you plan to pursue your academic interests and why you want to explore them at USC specifically.
250 words max · Required
Outside Academics
Outside of academic pursuits, what do you hope to explore, contribute to, or get involved in to enrich your campus community?
250 words max · Required
Essential to Understanding You
What is something about yourself that is essential to understanding you?
100 words max · Required
About the application
Applies via the Common App.
Make your next draft count.
Common questions
- What are the USC essay prompts for 2025-26?
- USC lists Why USC & Major (1 prompt); Outside Academics (1 prompt); Essential to Understanding You (1 prompt) for 2025-26.
- How many essays does USC require?
- USC requires 3 essays based on the published group instructions for 2025-26. The page lists 3 required and 0 optional prompts.
- What are the word limits for the USC supplemental essays?
- The published word and character limits are 250 words max, 100 words max.