Helpful application tips for Ph.D. applicants including Frequently Asked Questions

1. Ph.D. Application tips

2. Create account
Create new account
or login with system
generated PIN
Note: Each new application
created will generate a new
PIN code/ password
www.usc.edu/admission/graduate/apply/

3. In the Application
Information section
drop down menus,
select:
Application
Information section
1. Fall 2016
(if applying for next fall)
2. USC Viterbi School of
Engineering
3. Your intended Ph.D.
program of study that
you are applying

4. Application Tips: GPA
Provide your GPA in the grading/point system that is used by your institution.

5. Application Tips: TOEFL and GRE scores
Ensure that your
official score reports
are electronically sent
directly to USC
(ETS Code: 4852)
If you do not yet have
your scores, you can
leave this section
blank and we will
refer to your official
score reports. Do not
let this section delay
your submission of
the application.

6. Application Tips:
Letters of Recommendation
Please add the name and
information for each
recommendation provider in
the “Recommendations”
section.
(Three minimum required)
IMPORTANT Note:
Do NOT wait to submit your
application even if your
letters have not yet been
submitted by your
recommenders. This is
separate module of the
application.
You WILL be able to check
the status of letters once the
application has been
submitted.

7. Application Tips
USC ID number takes
approx. 48 hours to be
issued after submission
of online application –
please plan accordingly.
Submit the application and
all required materials as
early as possible including
your unique 10 digit
Application ID number in
all your correspondence
(email and hard copy).
Enter your name, address
and passport information
EXACTLY as it should
appear on your visa
application; incorrect
information will delay the
issuance of your I-20 and
student visa.
Your application status
will be updated on the
online application system.
You will be notified if
additional documents are
required.

8. Ph.D. Application Checklist

9. Frequently Asked Questions
Question Answer
Can I apply to more than one program? You may apply for up to 3 Viterbi School graduate
programs for a one-time application fee and with one set
of transcripts and test scores. View the instructions (PDF)
What are the required minimum GRE scores for
Master’s programs?
We do not use a formula or have minimum test score
requirements for admission to USC. In general, successful
applicants have demonstrated outstanding quantitative
ability and proven success in previous academic
endeavors, particularly prerequisite coursework relevant
to their intended major.
How do I submit transcripts to USC? Please carefully review the application steps in the Ready
to Apply section of our website.
My previous studies were not conducted in English. Do
you need academic records in the original language of
instruction?
Yes. You need to provide both the original-language
academic records and a full, word-for-word English-
language translation issued by the academic institution
you attended or a professional translation service.
For a list of additional frequently asked
questions, please visit the
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) webpage