USC PhD in Economics
While some of our graduates enter the private sector, the primary focus of the USC PhD in Economics program is to train scholars to become academic researchers. Interested applicants are encouraged to explore our faculty, research, financial support, and degree requirements to see if our brilliant community of scholars is the right fit.
Fall 2025 Admissions: OPEN
Entry into the doctoral program is for the Fall semester only. Admission to the program is highly competitive – the USC Department of Economics receives hundreds of applications every year for approximately a dozen spots. Once admitted, the doctoral education for each student is fully funded.
Preparing to Apply
All applicants must apply via USC’s online application system; we do not accept paper applications. Please review and follow directions stated by USC Graduate Admission.
Applications for admission to the USC PhD in Economics program are due December 1 at 8:59 PM PT. There are no exceptions. The Department typically starts accepting program applications in September.
In preparation, please read the information below and note the following required application materials:
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This should include an applicant’s educational history, all relevant work and research experience, awards and honors, any publications, and conference presentations.
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The statement should explain your personal interest in economics. It should be no more than 2–3 pages, double-spaced.
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The Department accepts GRE scores that applicants have earned within the past 5 years. Only the University’s ETS code below should be used to deliver your scores; no department code is required.
USC ETS Code: 4852
We like to see applicants with scores that are at least on par with, if not above, the following benchmarks:
Verbal: 150
Quantitative: 160
Most of our admitted students have received scores well beyond those minimums, so please keep that in mind.
Note: GMAT scores will not be considered
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Submit transcripts from all colleges, universities, and other post-secondary institutions you have previously attended.
Scanned transcripts uploaded to the online application are considered unofficial transcripts. The Department can review such documents and make a conditional decision based on these. However, USC Graduate Admission will—at some point—absolutely need to receive official transcripts before you can be fully and formally admitted to a program.
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Submit 3 letters from professors or supervisors who can speak on your potential for graduate training and professional contributions to economics. The Department likes to see at least 2 letters from academic references. All letters should be submitted via the online application system.
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All international applicants are expected to demonstrate proficiency in English according to the University’s graduate admission policies.
The Department accepts both the TOEFL and IELTS examinations. Applicants must submit composite scores that exceed the following thresholds:
IELTS: 7
TOEFL: 100
The scores must be dated within 2 years (24 months) of the date you submit your application.
Diving Deeper
Curious about what we can offer you as a graduate student? Let us help! From program details to funding opportunities, here’s everything you need to make an informed decision.
Dive into our extensive range of resources and find out how the USC Department of Economics can help you achieve your academic and professional goals.