<p>USC is need-blind in admissions, so applying for financial aid does not affect acceptances. Really. For International students however, there is a requirement to show that you (or your family) can pay for your tuition and support while in college before USC can send an acceptance letter. (This is a United States government requirement and the first step in obtaining a student visa, not a USC requirement.)</p>
<p>All of the above has nothing to do with the December 1st deadline. Nothing. The December 1st deadline is for MERIT scholarship consideration ONLY. It has nothing to do with need-based financial aid. International students are eligible for merit aid at USC.</p>
<p>
No.
It is not an early action or early decision deadline. The vast majority of students who apply by the December 1st deadline do NOT hear about acceptances/rejections before those who apply by January 11th. There are a very few acceptances (but no rejections) sent out in late January and early February. They are the students being considered for the Trustee and Presidential scholarships who are notified early so they can be interviewed for the scholarships in late February and early March, and a few other very well qualified students (most of whom are later awarded the Dean’s scholarships).</p>
<p>If your application is ready by December 1st, there is NO negative impact on your application by applying at that time. None.</p>