University of Southern California Leadership Scholarship

About the Scholarship

The Leadership Scholarship pays a flat $10,000 a year at USC and puts strong emphasis on leadership in school and community service, on top of the academic record.

Candidates take the most demanding curriculum available to them and sit near the top of the applicant pool academically. International applicants are eligible, and no separate form or minimum score is required.

Unlike the tuition-share awards, this one is a fixed sum, so its value stays the same as tuition rises. Apply by 1 November to be considered, and expect to fund the rest of tuition and all living costs yourself.

Eligibility

Applicants pursue the most demanding curriculum available and sit at the top of the applicant pool academically, with strong emphasis placed on leadership in school and community service. 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