USC’s Glossary of International Applicant Terms
USC’s Glossary of International Applicant Terms
Applying to a university can be challenging, especially when you're navigating the process from another country. The University of Southern California (USC) understands that international students face unique hurdles. To help, we’ve put together this guide to explain key terms and concepts you’ll encounter when applying to USC. Our goal is to make sure you have the information you need to apply with confidence.
Who Is an International Student?
At USC, we define international students as individuals who will need a visa to study in the United States. This includes students already in the U.S. on non-immigrant visas like E2, H2, or L2, but not students who hold U.S. citizenship or permanent residency who are attending a school abroad. Essentially, if you don’t hold U.S. citizenship or a green card, this applies to you (DACA and Undocumented students are NOT considered international applicants).
First-Year or Transfer: Which One Are You?
Understanding whether you’re a first-year or transfer applicant is crucial. If you’re still in high school or have just graduated but haven’t enrolled in college, you’re a first-year applicant. If you’ve already completed courses at a community college or another university, you’re a transfer student. Knowing where you fit helps you navigate the application process more smoothly.
Holistic Admission Review: What USC Considers
USC looks at the whole picture when reviewing your application. This “holistic” approach means we consider all parts of your application, not just your grades and test scores. We understand that international schools might have different systems than U.S. schools. Our international admission counselors are familiar with a variety of curricula, so your application will be reviewed fairly and in context. For example…
In Japan, your transcripts may have academic grades 1-5, and we hope to see consistent 5
’s and 4’s.
In the French Baccalaureate, a score of 14/20 may seem low to the average person, but we know that a 14 is considered a strong score.
In Brazil, your transcripts may have academic grades 1-10, and we hope to see consistent 8-10
’s.
Grade Point Average (GPA): How We Assess Your Performance
Your GPA reflects how well you’ve done in your courses. Around the world, grading systems vary widely, and USC doesn’t require you to convert your grades to a U.S. scale. Instead, we assess your academic performance based on your school’s grading system.
Merit Scholarships: Recognizing Excellence
USC offers merit scholarships to students who excel academically, athletically, or artistically. International students are eligible for these scholarships. To be considered, make sure you apply by the scholarship deadline (November 1 or December 1, depending on your major). You don’t need to fill out any extra forms. Just submit your application by the deadline. For more information on scholarships available through USC, please review our comprehensive list of USC Scholarships.
Need-Based Aid: What International Students Should Know
It’s important to note that USC doesn’t offer need-based financial aid to international students. However, U.S. citizens and permanent residents living abroad can apply for need-based aid by completing the FAFSA and CSS Profile.
English Language Proficiency: Meeting USC’s Standards
If English isn’t your first language, you’ll need to show that you can handle college-level English. USC accepts several tests, including the SAT, ACT, TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, and PTE. Make sure your scores meet USC’s minimum requirements.
A minimum score of 650 on the SAT Evidence Based Reading and Writing exam (redesigned SAT) or 27 on the ACT English exam; OR
A minimum score of 100 on the TOEFL iBT (with a minimum score of 20 in each section); OR
A minimum IELTS score of 7; OR
A minimum PTE score of 68; OR
A minimum Duolingo score of 135+; OR
For the full description the USC English Language Proficiency policy, refer to the USC International Applicants page.
Financial Statement of Personal or Family Support: Proving Financial Stability
International students need to show they have enough funds to cover their first year at USC. This information is also required by the US government in order to issue your student visa. You may fulfill this requirement by submitting the Financial Statement of Personal or Family Support, along with proof of available funds (like bank statements).
Student Visa: The Key to Studying in the U.S.
To study at USC, you’ll need a student visa unless you’re a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. After you’re admitted and decide to enroll, you’ll start the visa process. This involves an online application, an interview at a U.S. consulate or embassy, and then waiting for your visa to be issued. The entire process typically takes one to two months.
USC I-20 Process: Getting Your Visa Documentation
When a student applies for a visa to enter and study in the United States, they must show both proof of enrollment from USC and documentation of sufficient funding to live and study in the country. USC will generate and supply to committed students a document called an I-20, or specifically a “certificate of eligibility for non-immigrant student status.” USC will issue an I-20 to students only after they have applied to, been accepted by, and committed to enroll at USC. To receive their I-20, students must submit a copy of the photo page of their passport, as well as proof of funding equivalent to one year of study at USC (approx. 90,000 USD). Students are required to upload these documents as part of their application for admission. I-20s are typically issued 3 to4 months before the start of the semester when a student begins their studies at USC.
University-Level Credit for High School Exams: Getting Ahead
USC awards university credit for certain high school exams, like Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), and A-levels. Earning these credits can help you graduate faster or fulfill specific course requirements. If you’ve taken these exams, you could get a head start on your degree.
A Level - https://arr.usc.edu/students/transfer-credit-services/a-level-exam-credit-at-usc/
For more information, please visit the USC Exam Credit page.
Admission Counselor (Territory Manager): Your Support System
USC’s international admission counselors, also known as Territory Managers, are here to help you through the admissions process. No matter where you go to school, there is a counselor for you, and they understand the unique challenges of applying from abroad and are available to answer your questions. They also are well versed and help our entire admission team understand some of the unique opportunities and challenges for students applying from abroad, whether that’s curriculum offerings, different grading scales, length of secondary school enrollment, or some other difference compared to a US-style educational system. To find the counselor assigned to your area, use the Find Your Counselor tool on our website. We work with students based on where they currently attend high school, not based on citizenship or country of origin.
This guide is one of many resources available to help you navigate the USC admissions process. Don’t forget to review our other glossaries like the USC Glossary of First Year Applicant Terms and/or USC Glossary of Transfer Applicant Terms.
Written by: Matthew Peterson, International Admission Officer, Tyler Swartout, International Admission Officer – Office of Undergraduate Admission