Admission FAQ
Please find answers to frequently asked questions related to the admissions process below. The questions are updated periodically with information relevant to where you may be in your degree exploration and application process, so check back frequently.
- General information for graduate applicants
- Preparing for graduate admissions
- How can I submit my best application?
- When and how do I contact USC Graduate Admission?
- May I submit revised writing samples, updated résumé, and other documents after submitting my application?
- How many graduate applications may I submit?
- When is the last date I can take the TOEFL, IELTS or PTE for 2025 admission consideration?
- Preparing to enroll in a graduate degree program
- General information for undergraduate applicants
General information for graduate applicants
How do I speak with someone regarding admission?
Call Annenberg Admissions at (213) 821-0770 Monday through Friday, 9 – 11:30 a.m. and 1 – 4:30 p.m. PT, or email our office at ascadm@usc.edu
What are application guidelines?
Application guidelines provide detailed instructions on applying for admission to a USC Annenberg degree program. Guidelines are posted on the Graduate Applicants page.
Where do I go to learn more about USC Annenberg graduate degree programs?
There are three sources for learning more about graduate degree programs offered at USC Annenberg. First, review the academic pages for each degree program on the USC Annenberg website. Second, attend a virtual graduate information session which feature a faculty presenter and a USC Annenberg admission officer. Third, meet an admission officer at a recruitment event in Los Angeles or in your local area.
Preparing for graduate admissions
How can I submit my best application?
Review the application guidelines and follow the instructions. When you have questions, contact USC Annenberg Admissions at (213) 821-0770 or ascadm@usc.edu
When and how do I contact USC Graduate Admission?
If you receive an email from USC Graduate Admission, you must respond to that office immediately. An expansive FAQ is available here. When you have specific questions, email USC Graduate Admission here.
May I submit revised writing samples, updated résumé, and other documents after submitting my application?
Once you submit your application, materials may not be deleted, revised, or updated. Review your materials carefully before uploading items to your online application.
How many graduate applications may I submit?
You may apply for admission to as many as three different degree programs per term.
When is the last date I can take the TOEFL, IELTS or PTE for 2025 admission consideration?
If you are required to submit language proficiency test scores, plan to sit for the TOEFL, IELTS or PTE exams by November 30, 2024.
Preparing to enroll in a graduate degree program
When are admission decisions released?
PhD admission decisions are usually released in early February. Master’s degree admission decisions are usually released in late March. Dates may vary without advanced notice.
Is there an enrollment deposit?
There are no enrollment deposits for USC Annenberg graduate degree programs.
What happens if I cannot enroll?
If you are offered admission and cannot enroll, you must decline the offer of admission on the USC student portal. The link is provided in your admission notification.
If I plan to enroll, when do I register for classes?
All USC Annenberg students must consult with a graduate adviser before course registration. Graduate advisers will contact enrolling students beginning in June for degree programs that start in the summer and in July for degree programs that start in August. There will be ample space in required courses and electives.
General information for undergraduate applicants
What majors are offered at USC Annenberg and where do I learn more about each one?
USC Annenberg offers three undergraduate majors — communication, journalism, and public relations. Learn more about each major on their respective pages on the USC Annenberg website.
When do I speak with a USC Admission counselor versus a USC Annenberg admissions officer?
USC Admission counselors are the primary point of contact to help you navigate the application and admission process and answer any questions that may arise. An assigned counselor is responsible for your high school or geographic area. USC Annenberg admission officers are experts on USC Annenberg majors, faculty, facilities, programs, and the student experience. We are available to answer questions about USC Annenberg and meet you at admission programs and activities.
What visit opportunities are available?
There are two best options for visiting in person:
Option 1: Arrange a campus tour and admissions overview followed by a USC Annenberg information session. If your time is limited, you may register to attend the USC Annenberg information session only. Make your reservation here.
Option 2: Attend USC Discover, which is an open house for all prospective first-year students. During USC Discover, USC Annenberg will offer information sessions, student and faculty panels, and Media Center tours. Make your reservation here.
Virtual transfer information sessions are also offered monthly beginning in September. Register here.
If these options do not work for you, contact USC Annenberg Admissions at (213) 821-0770 or ascadm@usc.edu at least seven days in advance to schedule an individual visit which will include a meeting with an admissions officer and a building tour.
Without a scheduled visit, walk-ins may meet with a USC Annenberg Admissions representative Monday through Friday, 9–11:30 a.m. and 1–4:30 p.m. PT.
Which office reads my application first — USC Admission or USC Annenberg Admission?
All undergraduate applications are reviewed, and admission decisions are made by USC Admission. USC Annenberg Admission’s role is to select students for USC merit scholarships and make transfer admission recommendations to USC Admission.