Incoming class of 2030 set “all-time high” GPA record

USC’s incoming class of 2030 is bringing in a grade point average of 3.92 — an all-time record for the university. This raises the GPA average 0.02 points higher than last year’s admitted class.

“The academic strength of this admitted class is truly exceptional, with a record-high average GPA and standardized test scores among the strongest in our history,” Dean of Admission Timothy Brunold said in an emailed statement on Thursday.

Last year, USC saw about 83,500 applications — the university’s highest record.

This year, the university saw 79,290 applications for the upcoming academic year, according to the Office of Admission. Of that number, 9,251 students received offers for admission to the fall 2026-2027 semester.

“Our highly selective admission rate reflects both the depth of interest in USC and how extraordinarily prepared these students are for our rigorous academic environment,” Brunold said in the statement.

Prospective students from around the country have taken to social media to share their reactions to their USC college decision letters. A video on USC’s TikTok account highlights excited admitted students.