GPA requirements for University of Southern California?

I'm dreaming of USC but, yikes, it sounds competitive. Anyone know what GPA they typically look for in applicants?

University of Southern California (USC) is indeed quite competitive. Generally speaking, the average GPA of admitted students at USC tends to hover around 3.83 on a 4.0 scale for unweighted GPAs. However, the middle 50% range for USC is typically around 3.79 to 4.0 unweighted.

This shows a preference for students with very strong academic records, but it's essential to remember that USC, like many institutions, conducts a comprehensive review of each applicant. In addition to looking at your GPA, they will be considering the rigor of your course load, your involvement in extracurricular activities, and the content of your application essays, among other characteristics.

That being said, a GPA lower than the average doesn't automatically disqualify you, just as a GPA above the average doesn't guarantee acceptance. Remember to highlight your strengths and passions in your application as these play a large role in the admissions decision too. If your GPA is not as high as you hoped it would be, it could be advantageous to have a significant accomplishment in an extracurricular, a compelling essay, or strong test scores to round out your application.

If you're able, be sure to take advantage of any opportunities to improve your GPA while demonstrating your ability to handle rigorous courses. And always reach out to your guidance counselor or college counselor for personalized guidance and support. Good luck in your application process!