USC Early Action decision release for Class of 2026?

Hi, I've been looking at USC as one of my top choices for college and am going to apply Early Action next year. I've scoured the internet and I can't seem to find a definitive answer as to when they release EA decisions. Does anyone know when USC typically releases Early Action decisions? I know we need to be flexible with the COVID-19 situation, but I would really appreciate any info. Thanks!

University of Southern California (USC) operates a bit differently from other schools, in that they do not offer a traditional "Early Action" or "Early Decision" program. Instead, they offer what's called "Merit Scholarship Consideration," which functions similar to Early Action in terms of the application deadline but doesn't give you an early notification date.

To be considered for USC Merit Scholarships, you are required to apply by December 1st — the same deadline as many Early Action and Early Decision programs. However, USC doesn't release decisions for these applications until late January, when they announce the candidates that have been selected for merit scholarships. Final admissions decisions for all applicants, including those who applied by the December 1st deadline and were not selected for a merit scholarship, are released by April 1st.

So, to answer your question, if you submit your application to USC by December 1st you'll hear back about merit scholarships in late January, but you won't receive your final admissions decision until April. Keep in mind that these dates are typical and could be subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances. The best way to be sure about these dates is to check USC's official admissions website or get in touch with their admissions office directly. I hope this clarifies the process for you!