<p>Last year the very first acceptances were received in late January. Acceptances received this early, and into the following two weeks or so were those which were being considered for the two biggest merit scholarships, Trustee and Presidential. Therefore I recommend that you get the additional materials in a decent time before January 10th, probably mid December or so at the latest.
For the Alumna, Scions, Town and Gown etc, there is a separate application which includes a short essay to write (at least this was the case last year). I don’t remember where the application is on the USC site, but if you google Trojan Alumna Scholarships you might find it.
This does not apply to the Deans. To be considered for that one you just need to get the application in by Dec 1, and notifications are during acceptances, but after Trustee and Pres. have been invited to interview.</p>