USC Accepts 10.4% of Students to the Class of 2029
Summary
USC has completed its admissions cycle for the Class of 2029, reaffirming its position as one of the most selective universities in the world. Out of 83,500 applicants, USC admitted around 8,684 students, resulting in an overall acceptance rate of 10.4%.
Here's a detailed breakdown of the new numbers and insights to help prospective applicants better understand the evolving admissions landscape.
Class of 2029 Overview
| Admission Round | Applicants | Admitted | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall | 83,500 | 8,684 | 10.4% |
Key Trends
- Record-Breaking Number of Applicants: This year marks the highest number of applicants in USC's history.
- Rise in Acceptance Rate: After 5 years of consistent decline in acceptance rate, the university saw its first increase this year, rising from 9.2% to 10.4%.
Broader Admissions Trends
- Increased Competition: Over the past seven years, USC has had an overall admissions rate that mostly hovered between 16 and 11%, but last year, it dropped to 9.2%, a record low.
- A More Diverse and Competitive Applicant Pool: Just two years ago, admissions statistics at USC signaled an applicant pool growing not only larger, but also more academically competitive and more geographically diverse. The average applicant GPA has steadily risen over the past decade, reaching around 3.9 for last year's incoming class.
USC's admissions remain fiercely competitive, demanding not only exceptional academic performance but also evidence of meaningful engagement and genuine passion. Applicants should focus on standing out authentically rather than merely fitting into a perceived mold.
USC's Regular Decision Acceptance Results
Regular Decision Results: Class of 2029 vs 2028
| Admission Round | Class of 2029 | Class of 2028 | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| RD Applications Received | 41,369 | 41,074 | +0.5% |
| Applications Accepted | 3,803 | 3,321 | +14.5% |
| RD Acceptance Rate | 9.2% | 8% | +15% |
The university published its Regular and Early Decision acceptance rates for Class of 2028 and 2028 along with other profile information for the incoming classes.
Between 2024 and 2025, the number of RD applicants rose, while the number of admitted applicants also increased, resulting in a slightly higher RD acceptance rate (9.2%) for the Class of 2029, compared to last year's RD result (8%).
USC's Early Decision Acceptance Results
Early Decision Results: Class of 2029 vs 2028
| Admission Round | Class of 2029 | Class of 2028 | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Applications Received | 42,119 | 40,953 | +2.8% |
| Applications Accepted | 3,524 | 2,938 | +20% |
| ED Acceptance Rate | 8.3% | 7.2% | +15% |
ED applicants at USC are automatically deferred to the RD round; this means that if you apply early, you're considered for admission twice.
USC leaders have published admissions profile and results data for both the Class of 2029, and the Class of 2028.
- Higher Acceptance Rates: Early Decision applicants typically enjoy higher acceptance rates compared to Regular Decision.
- Demonstrated Interest: Applying early shows USC your strong interest in joining their academic community.
Historical Trends
USC's Acceptance Statistics Last 10 Years
| Class of | Total Applications | Total Accepted | Total Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2029 | 83,500 | 8,684 | 10.4% |
| 2028 | 82,027 | 8,050 | 9.8% |
| 2027 | 80,808 | 8,094 | 10.0% |
| 2026 | 69,000 | 8,200 | 11.88% |
| 2025 | 71,000 | 8,804 | 12.4% |
| 2024 | 60,000 | 9,500 | 15.83% |
| 2023 | 66,000 | 7,260 | 11% |
| 2022 | 64,256 | 8,258 | 12.85% |
| 2021 | 56,000 | 8,980 | 16% |
| 2020 | 54,100 | 8,920 | 16.5% |
| 2019 | 51,800 | 9,050 | 17.47% |
- Academic Excellence: Maintain top grades and a high GPA.
- Strong Essays: Use your essays to showcase your unique voice and story.
- Leadership and Extracurriculars: Demonstrate meaningful engagement outside the classroom.
- Test Scores: If submitting, aim for high SAT or ACT scores within or above USC's reported range.
Final Thoughts
Congratulations to all students admitted to USC's Class of 2029—your achievement reflects remarkable dedication and excellence. For those considering applying to USC in the future, the admissions landscape is increasingly competitive, making strategic preparation essential. Crimson Education specializes in helping ambitious students navigate this challenging process, offering tailored guidance to build compelling applications that reflect their authentic strengths and passions.
If you're a student or parent interested in USC or other top universities, Crimson Education offers a range of services in college admissions consulting that can support you throughout your academic journey.
- Maximize your chances of admission by working with our college admissions consultants and get started with a free consultation.
- Learn more about academics, extracurriculars, and admissions by signing up for our events and webinars on the topics that interest you.
- For more insights, review our students' admissions results and learn about our story.
