FAQs

What is USD most known for?
USD is a liberal arts institution, which means that students take courses in a range of academic disciplines. The core curriculum is particularly strong and comprehensive. Popular majors include business administration, communication studies, psychology, political science and accounting.

Is USD Jesuit?
No. USD is Catholic, but it is independent, which means that we are not governed by any particular religious order. The Religious of the Sacred Heart established the San Diego College for Women in 1952 while the Diocese of San Diego established the College for Men in 1954. In 1972 the two colleges merged, becoming the University of San Diego. Since the merger, we have been governed by a diverse Board of Trustees, yet remain dedicated to the mission and teachings of the Catholic Church.

What is the average class size?
The average class size is between 15 and 25 students.

What are the minimum GPA and SAT/ACT scores?
There is no minimum G.P.A. or SAT/ACT scores. The average G.P.A for enrolled freshmen (2006-2007) was 3.74. The average SAT was 1174 and the average ACT was 25.5. While a solid G.P.A. and good SAT/ACT scores are important for admission, we also look for evidence of students who are well-rounded and enjoy being part of their communities.

Does USD require the new SAT Reasoning Test or the optional writing test offered by the ACT?
We do require all applicants to submit scores for the new SAT Reasoning Test with the writing test. We also require students taking the ACT to submit the optional writing test.

How many applications does USD receive for the fall semester?
The numbers have risen steadily for several years. In 2007, we received 10,563 freshman and 1,042 transfer applications.

Is it easier or harder to be admitted if I apply Early Action?

Our admissions criteria is actually the same both applicants whether they apply Early Action or for Regular Decision. Therefore it is neither more or less difficult to be admitted via Early Action.

Is Early Action binding?

No, Early Action is not binding. This means that if you are admitted from the Early Action applicant pool, you will still have until May 1st to decide where you want to go to college from amongst all schools to which you were admitted.

Does USD offer individual interviews?
No. The group information session is offered in lieu of private interviews. Individual questions after the session are welcome.

What athletic division is USD?
USD offers eight men's and eight women's Division I teams. We belong to the prestigious West Coast Conference (WCC) and play a strong regional schedule against Pepperdine, Loyola Marymount, Portland, San Francisco (USF), Santa Clara, St. Mary's, and Gonzaga. Our football team competes at the NCAA I-AA level as part of the Pioneer Football League. One out of every 10 USD students is an NCAA Division I varsity athlete. Scholarships are available for all of the intercollegiate sports except football and crew.

Does USD offer merit scholarships?
Yes. Merit scholarships are offered to the top 30% of the admitted freshmen, regardless of financial need. The student's grade point average, SAT/ACT scores, extracurricular activities, essay and recommendation are used to identify academic merit scholars. All applicants are considered for academic scholarships; there is no separate application form.

Is it better to apply Early Action to have a higher consideration for a merit scholarship?

No. Like our admissions criteria, the criteria used to award merit scholarships is the same for both applicants who apply for Early Action and Regular Decision.

What percentage of students receive financial aid?
70% of USD students receive some form of financial aid. This may be in the form of grants, scholarships, part-time employment, or low interest loans.

Do many students live on campus?
Yes. Over 90% of our freshmen live in the residence halls. Freshmen who have family in San Diego have the option of living at home, whereas non-local students are required to live on campus for their first year. About 50% of USD upperclassmen overall live in campus housing.