2026-27 Cycle • 3 prompts

USC supplemental essays.

Every USC supplemental prompt for the 2026-27 cycle, with the word limit, what they're looking for, and the most common pitfalls.

1. Prompt 1: Describe yourself in three words.

   25 wordsrequired

   What they really want

   • Three SPECIFIC words. 'Curious, kind, hardworking' is everyone's answer.
   • Pick words that make admissions ask 'wait, what does that one mean?'

   Avoid

   • Generic adjectives.
   • Words that sound impressive but you can't back up.

2. Prompt 2: What is your favorite snack?

   25 wordsrequired

   What they really want

   • Just a snack. Resist the urge to make it metaphorical.
   • Specific brand or preparation > generic ('pretzels' < 'Trader Joe's everything bagel mini-pretzels').

   Avoid

   • Trying to make 'apple slices' into a personality essay.

3. Prompt 3: Describe how you plan to pursue your academic interests and why you want to explore them at USC specifically. Feel free to address your first- and second-choice major selections.

   250 wordsrequired

   What they really want

   • Pick first + second major and address both — they ask for it.
   • USC has 100+ majors, dual-degrees, and Thematic Option — name the SPECIFIC ones you'd combine.

   Avoid

   • Generic 'why I love your school' framing.
   • Naming a single major when prompted for two.