APPLICATION DEADLINE: December 1st of each year.
We do not mail out nor accept hard copy applications. Please upload all application materials electronically to the online application.
- Apply online: https://gradadm.usc.edu/apply/. Upload to your application the following required materials.
- Creative writing sample: Fiction or Nonfiction (approximately 25 pages) or Poetry (approximately 10 – 12 pages). Please do not send entire manuscripts. Select and send only the approximate number of pages requested.
- Critical writing sample: A scholarly critical work (10 – 25 pages). Book reviews will not satisfy this requirement.
- Statement of purpose (no more than 3 pages, single-spaced).
- Diversity, Inclusion, and Access Statement (optional): Diversity presents itself in many different forms, and it is our goal to cultivate an environment that values diverse backgrounds, approaches, and perspectives. Feel free to provide a statement (no more than 1 page single-spaced) of how your particular perspective may contribute to the synergy of a diverse learning community.
- Resume/CV
- Three letters of recommendation: The online application will prompt you to list the names and email addresses of your recommenders. Each recommender will receive an email with specific instructions on how to upload the letter. We do not accept hard copies of letters of recommendation.
- GRE General Test Score: As of August 15, 2022, the GRE General Test is no longer required!
- Transcripts, 2 copies: (1.) Upload an unofficial copy of your university-issued transcripts to the application. (2.) Request official transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate coursework, and send to the following address: USC Office of Graduate Admission
3601 South Flower St. #112
Los Angeles, CA 90089-091
E-transcripts: USC now accepts official electronic transcripts, provided they meet the guidelines set by USC Graduate Admissions: https://gradadm.usc.edu/lightboxes/us-students-transcript-requirements/.
Do not send any other materials or correspondence to this email address yourself.
Electronic transcripts e-mailed to any other address will not be downloaded, resulting in a delay of your file review.
Questions? Check out our FAQs page.
We appreciate your interest in our program and look forward to receiving your application.
Contact Us
Ph.D. in Creative Writing & Literature
3501 Trousdale Parkway
Taper Hall of Humanities 431
Los Angeles, CA 90089-0354
Office Hours
Monday — Friday
8:30 a.m. — 5:00 p.m.
Times may adjust in accordance with university holidays.