This probably wasn’t the outcome you envisioned. You submitted your USC Early Action app with optimism, maybe even confidence, and hoped for a yes. Instead, you’re sitting in limbo. Not an acceptance, not a denial. Just... deferred.
First things first: this doesn’t mean you weren’t a strong applicant. It doesn’t erase your hard work, your grades, your leadership, your essays. It reflects just how competitive USC’s early pool has become. The university received nearly 40,000 EA applications last cycle alone, and with limited spots in the first round, a deferral simply means they need more time to decide.
It’s okay to be disappointed. Let yourself feel it. Then, once you’re ready, we’re here to help you shift into gear and make your next moves count.
You applied early to USC for a reason. Maybe it was the interdisciplinary programs, the Trojan network, or the blend of film, business, engineering, and global studies all on one vibrant campus. Whatever your “why,” don’t lose sight of it. Let’s map out what to do next.
Step One: Double-Check Your College List
Start by reviewing your current list. Is it truly balanced – a smart spread of reaches, targets, and safeties? Are you applying to schools you’re genuinely excited about attending? If not, time to expand. And not just with “name brand” options.
Look for schools that share what drew you to USC. Maybe that’s a strong urban setting, a focus on media or the arts, or interdisciplinary programs that bridge tech and the humanities. NYU, BU, Tulane, Emory, Northeastern, and LMU could be great additions. And don’t sleep on top public universities with honors programs – they often offer excellent academic communities within larger schools.
From there, it’s time to lock in deadlines, plan your supplement strategy, and get to work. Prioritize essays that show thoughtful fit. The better you articulate why a school aligns with you, the stronger your RD case will be. And we have guides on all sorts of supplements on our blog.
Step Two: Revisit Your Common App
Now’s your chance to take another look at your Common App essay with a bit more distance. Reread it and ask yourself: Does it sound like something only I could have written? Or could this essay have come from anyone else with a similar resume?
Many essays are “fine.” They cover growth, challenge, achievement – and they’re technically solid. But in the Regular Decision pool, solid doesn’t always stand out. What you want is something specific, compelling, and unmistakably you.
Some good self-check questions: Does this essay introduce something that doesn’t already appear in your activities list? Does it reflect how you think? Could a stranger read it and get a genuine sense of your voice or values? If not, don’t panic – but do consider revising. Sometimes a stronger intro, a more personal anecdote, or a deeper insight can make all the difference.
We’ve seen students swap out their Common App essay entirely during this stage, and it’s worked in their favor. Prompt #7 is often a favorite because it offers maximum freedom, but any prompt can work as long as it gives you space to show something real.
Need to completely revamp your Common App essay? Don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
Step Three: Other Applications
Early January is no joke. If you’re still working through Regular Decision deadlines, now’s the time to finish strong. Double-check your Common App one last time for formatting or typo issues, then move to the activities section. If anything has changed since you applied to USC, update accordingly: new awards, leadership roles, or academic progress all belong there.
Then comes the most important piece – the supplements. These essays are where you differentiate yourself. If your USC essays leaned into creativity or personality, keep that same energy. What matters is showing that you’ve done your research and can articulate why you’re a fit. Be specific. Be real.
Once your full slate of RD apps is submitted, you can turn your attention back to USC.
Step Four: Update
USC doesn’t publish a ton of information about their deferral process. You’re moved from the Early Action pool into Regular Decision, and your file will be reviewed again alongside the larger applicant group. Unlike some schools, USC doesn’t ask for an official “Expression of Continued Interest” form. That means it’s up to you to submit a letter of continued interest (LOCI), if you want to be proactive.
Here are some things, from experience, that you may want to gather:
Mid-Year Report and Mid-Year Transcript
Your school counselor should do this automatically, but follow up
Updated Test Scores
If you have them
Your deferral letter, a.k.a., the letter of continued interest.
More on this next
The Deferral Letter - Letter of Continued Interest
If you’re still fully committed to USC, and you want to improve your standing in the RD pool, a well-written LOCI can help.
This letter should do a few key things, a) Reaffirm your strong interest in USC, b) State clearly that, if admitted, you would attend, and c) Share meaningful updates that strengthen your application.
It’s not a place to rehash your resume. And it shouldn’t feel like you’re begging. Think of it more as a professional follow-up that demonstrates your reflection, proactivity, and continued interest.
Start with a polite and professional greeting. If you know your regional rep, address them by name. If not, “Dear USC Admissions” is fine. From there, lead with your commitment: make it clear that USC remains your top choice and that you’d enroll if offered a spot.
Then, get into your updates. Maybe you’ve received a new academic honor, taken on a leadership role, launched a creative project, or seen real progress in an independent endeavor. Pick two or three updates that are relevant and recent. Don’t just list them, tie them back to USC when appropriate. If your film placed in a festival and you’re excited about SCA, say that. If you started tutoring kids in your community and want to study education, explain how the update reflects your goals.
Close with a short thank-you and a reiteration of your enthusiasm. Upload it to your portal and if you’ve been in contact with your rep, a quick email letting them know you’ve submitted an update is appropriate.
A thoughtful, specific LOCI won’t guarantee admission, but it can tip the balance when your application goes back to the committee.
Step Five: Wait
Once your update is in, your other apps are done, and your Common App is in good shape, you wait.
There’s no benefit to emailing multiple times or sending extra materials unless USC specifically asks for them. One well-crafted LOCI, mid-year grades, and updated test scores (if available) are more than enough.
Decisions will likely come in late March. Until then, your job is to focus on school, take care of yourself, and stay engaged in the process. A deferral is frustrating, but it’s not the end of the road. You’re still in the running.
We’ve seen it happen before, and we’ll see it again. You’ve got this.
We can help you bounce back from a deferral or rejection. Reach out to us today to learn more.