University of Southern California Dean's Scholarship

About the Scholarship

The Deans Scholarship covers a quarter of USC tuition for four years. It sits below the Trustee and Presidential awards and reaches a wider group of admitted first-year students.

USC states that all international applicants who apply by the deadline are eligible for its merit scholarships. Selection rests on a holistic read of the admission application: curriculum strength, academic record, talent, involvement and leadership.

There is nothing extra to submit. Apply by 1 November and you are in the pool. Because the award is a share of tuition, its cash value rises with tuition, and the remaining tuition plus housing, food and fees is yours to fund.

Eligibility

All international applicants who apply by the appropriate deadline are eligible for USC Merit Scholarships, and there are no minimum eligibility requirements. Awards are mutually exclusive, so a student who qualifies for more than one receives the largest. Renewal runs for up to eight semesters and needs full-time enrolment, 30 units each academic year, good academic standing and clean conduct.

Eligible Countries

All countries

How to Apply

No separate application. Submit the Common Application by the 1 November Early Action or Early Decision deadline (performing arts applicants apply Regular Decision by 1 December) and you are considered automatically. Candidates who move forward in the scholarship process are contacted in mid-February about next steps, which include an interview, and awards are confirmed with the admission decision in the spring.

Application Routes and Dates

Early Action or Early Decision

Check provider

Recurring deadline: 1 nov (check provider for current cycle)

For majors eligible for early admission and merit consideration.

Timing source · Checked 2026-09-13

Performing arts Regular Decision