Application Procedures

Division of Writing for Screen & Television

Screenwriting students follow a carefully constructed program that first introduces them to the fundamentals of creating for visual media while writing scenes, short scripts, treatments and full-length feature screenplays. Students can expect to graduate with a portfolio of writing, which will include two or more feature screenplays, a script for an existing television episodic drama or comedy, plus additional material, depending on their preference and interests.

Application Deadlines

Notes: Transfer students—the undergraduate Writing program is a four-year sequential curriculum of study. General education and elective units may be accepted toward the degree based on USC credit evaluation.

There is no spring admission to this program.

Considerable importance is placed on the personal statement, story ideas, writing samples, portfolio list and letters of recommendation during the application review process. There are no admission interviews. The committee ensures that all applicants are judged equitably by limiting evaluation to the items listed.

 
USC Admission Materials

Cinematic Arts Supplemental Materials

Undergraduates: The following materials must be submitted directly to the School of Cinematic Arts (Attn: Undergraduate Writing, LUC-301, Los Angeles, CA 90089-2211) with the applicant’s name and USC student ID number (if available) indicated at the top of each page. All items must be typed or legibly handwritten on standard 8.5 x 11-inch paper.

Graduates: The following materials must be submitted online.

1. Cinematic Arts Supplemental Application Form (undergraduates only)

Available online here.

2. Photocopy or Printout of the USC Application for Admission (undergraduates only)

Send a photocopy or printout of the application you have submitted to the USC Office of Admission. Do not send the original application to the School of Cinematic Arts. It is not necessary to send the university essay, quick takes, or short answers to the School of Cinematic Arts. Transfer applicants should send the activity summary. Online applicants should print a copy of the application from their computer. A brief statement indicating submission of the online application is acceptable if you are unable to print the materials.

 
3. Autobiographical Character Sketch

This is not a résumé. It should reflect your individuality and evoke an understanding of how you became who you are. You may write a creative essay or short story, 1-2 pages in length. Undergraduates: This statement is in addition to and separate from the undergraduate general admission essay.

4. Emotional Moment Essay

Convey in writing the most intensely emotional moment—positive or negative—you have ever experienced. This may, but does not have to be, an elaboration of something touched on in your autobiographical character sketch. 1-2 pages in length.

 
5. Creative Challenge

Two scenes with assigned parameters:

Part A - Write a scene between two very different kinds of people who get stuck in an elevator on New Year’s Eve. 2-5 pages. Please use screenplay format.

Part B - Write a scene between two people (e.g., a parent and child) who live together. The first character strongly desires to go out; the second desperately wants the first to stay home. Emphasize visual elements as well as dialogue. 2-5 pages.
Please use screenplay format.

 
6. Writing Samples

At least two samples of your creative writing. These may be excerpts with a note explaining the context. Writing in script form is not required. Maximum of 15 pages combined. If you send more than 15, only the first 15 will be read.

7. Portfolio List

A list of all available creative material and experience with a concise description of each item listed. Items need not be film related, but should give an idea of your creative ability. If your creativity has been recognized in some way, please include brief details.

8. Letters of Recommendation

Three letters of recommendation are required. Undergraduate applicants should send the letters to the Writing Admission Committee at the appropriate address below. Graduate applicants are highly encouraged to submit their letters through the university’s online application. Applicants are responsible for verifying that the letters have been received.

Undergraduates (Freshman and Transfer applicants)

Send the above materials—Cinematic Arts Supplemental Application Form, photocopy or printout of the USC admission application, autobiographical character sketch, most emotional moment essay, creative challenge: parts A and B, writing samples, portfolio list and letters of recommendation to:   

USC School of Cinematic Arts
Attn: Undergraduate Writing Program
University Park, LUC-301
Los Angeles, CA 90089-2211

Graduates (M.F.A. applicants)

Submit the university application, autobiographical character sketch, most emotional moment essay, creative challenge: parts A and B, writing samples, portfolio list and letters of recommendation online using the university’s online application: www.usc.edu/admission/graduate/apply. Recommenders who will not use the online process may send their letters directly to:

USC School of Cinematic Arts
            Attn: Graduate Writing Program
            University Park, LUC-301
            Los Angeles, CA 90089-2211