The USC Viterbi School of Engineering has just entered a new era of flexibility and choice in the college admissions process—and if you’re applying for Fall 2027, this is your moment!
USC has officially announced that, starting with Fall 2027 applicants, students can now choose between Early Decision (ED), Early Action (EA), and Regular Decision (RD)—a major update designed to meet students where they are and give you more control over your application strategy.
Whether USC is your absolute dream school, your top contender, or one of several exciting possibilities, there’s now a timeline that fits your goals.
Let’s Break It Down
Which Timeline works best for you?
Early Decision (ED)
Early Decision offers:
- A binding agreement
- You apply by November 1, 2026
- You cannot apply ED to any other school
- If admitted, you must enroll and withdraw all other applications
- Decisions released mid-December 2026 (that’s earlier than EA)
- Automatic merit scholarship consideration (no separate application)
Early Action (EA)
Early Action offers:
- A non-binding early timeline
- November 1, 2026 deadline
- Decisions released mid– to late‑January
- Automatic merit scholarship consideration (no separate application!)
Regular Decision (RD)
Regular Decision offers:
- A non-binding classic timeline
- January 10, 2027 deadline*
- Decisions released by April 1
