USC Marshall Early Decision Pilot FAQ

This initiative is a response to strong demand from students who are eager to commit to USC Marshall as their first choice and want to complete the admission process earlier. However, we are proceeding cautiously because ED represents a significant shift to our longstanding processes. We want to better understand the dynamics and impact before deciding whether to extend it to other majors.

Students who are absolutely sure that USC Marshall is their first choice and are prepared to make a binding commitment to attend if admitted.

No. If you apply ED to USC Marshall, you may not apply ED to any other college or university. This option is only intended for those who will enroll if accepted. However, you may apply to non-binding Early Action (EA) and Regular Decision (RD) programs at other schools.

If you are not admitted through Early Decision, your application will be deferred to the Regular Decision round and will considered again within the context of that applicant pool.

Yes. International students may apply to USC Marshall through Early Decision.

No, USC only offers one option for transfer applicants: Regular Decision.

If admitted through ED, you must enroll at USC Marshall and withdraw any outstanding applications to other schools. Failure to do so may result in USC rescinding your admission offer.

USC remains committed to accessibility and financial aid. While students admitted via ED are expected to enroll, those facing unexpected financial hardship can discuss their circumstances with USC’s Admission and Financial Aid Offices.

ED applicants are admitted directly to USC Marshall’s business or accounting programs. While internal transfers may be possible after enrolling at USC, students should apply to ED only if they are fully committed to studying business or accounting. If you are interested in pursuing a different major, this option is not for you.

Yes. ED applicants will be considered for USC’s merit scholarships, just like applicants in USC’s EA round.

No. All admitted students—regardless of application round—will be considered for need-based financial aid.

Early Decision (ED): Binding; must attend if admitted. Applicants informed of admission on December 15th.

Early Action (EA): Non-binding; receive an earlier decision but can apply to other schools. Applicants informed of admission in mid-January.

Regular Decision (RD): Non-binding; applicants informed of admission in late March.

No. Once you submit an ED application, you are committed to the binding process unless there are extenuating circumstances.

Yes. ED is intended only for those students who will enroll if admitted. USC’s EA and RD rounds are appropriate for those students who are still deciding on their first-choice college.

No need—if you are not admitted via ED, your application will automatically be deferred to the Regular Decision pool for reconsideration.

No. Currently, the World Bachelor’s in Business program is excluded from ED application. All other programs including, accounting, business administration, business and cinematic arts, real estate finance and development and business and artificial intelligence are included in the ED option.

The USC Marshall Undergraduate Admissions Office can assist you with your program inquiry. Please reach out to them at BUSADM@MARSHALL.USC.EDU or (213) 740-8885. Your USC TERRITORY MANAGER can also assist with application and university inquiries.