National Merit Scholarships

University of Southern California

700 Childs Way Los Angeles, CA 90089

  • Rating: A+
  • 38,607 Students
  • Private

Description

The University of Southern California (USC), located in Los Angeles, is a prestigious private research university renowned for its strong programs in film and media studies, engineering, business, and the arts. Established in 1880, USC is one of the oldest private research universities in California, offering a comprehensive range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees. The university’s urban setting in a global city, combined with its commitment to innovation, diversity, and a vibrant campus life, makes it a highly sought-after destination for students from around the world.

National Merit

  • National Merit Finalist Scholarship
    • Annual Amount: $20,000
    • Number of awards varies.
    • Entering first-year students are considered if they have been designated National Merit Finalists and name USC as their first-choice college with the National Merit Scholarship Corporation by May 30.
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Additional Scholarship Opportunities

  • Trustee Scholarship
    • Full tuition (approx. $66,640).
    • Approx. 100 awards.
    • Candidates are selected by USC faculty and staff from an extremely competitive national pool. Applicants pursue the most demanding curriculum and achieve at the highest level.
  • Presidential Scholarship
    • Half tuition (approx. $33,320).
    • Approx. 200 awards.
    • Competitive applicants will be at the top of the applicant pool with respect to academic achievement. In addition to academic criteria, candidates’ talent, perseverance, innovation, involvement, and leadership are considered.
  • USC Associates Scholarship
    • $20,000.
    • Approx. 10 awards.
    • Applicants take the most demanding curriculum and achieve at the highest level. Competitive candidates will be at the top of our applicant pool with respect to academic achievement. Strong emphasis is placed on leadership in school and community service. Selection criteria is both merit-and need-based.
  • Deans Scholarship
    • One-quarter tuition (approx. $16,660).
    • Approx. 100 awards.
    • Competitive applicants will be at the top of the applicant pool with respect to academic achievement. In addition to academic criteria, candidates’ talent, perseverance, innovation, involvement, and leadership are considered.
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Last Updated: April 2025

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