Fall 2020 Restart Guide: FAQ


Find key dates for the Fall semester, information for international students, and answers to common questions here. Check back regularly for the latest information.

Fall 2020 Key Dates

Fall semester begins August 17, 2020.
The last day of classes is November 13, 2020.
Most juries will be held November 14-16, 2020.
Final exams will take place November 17-20 and 23-24, 2020.
There will be no Thornton activities after November 24, 2020.

Questions about classes and performances

Will classes be held on campus or online this fall?
All classes will be held online for the Fall 2020 semester. More information about this format will be announced soon. Please read the dean’s latest memo to the Thornton community, and check USC’s Fall 2020 Schedule of Classes for information on each course.

Who can address my questions or concerns about my classes and lessons?
Contact your professor, ensemble director, or department chair. You can find emails for each department by clicking here. If you are unsure who to contact, email Thornton’s Student Affairs Office at thornton.studentaffairs@usc.edu.

Information for International Students

I am an international student, what are my options for the Fall 2020 semester?
The COVID-19 pandemic has made the enrollment of our international students especially challenging and unpredictable. US Embassies abroad remain closed and many restrictions on travel remain in place.

All international students are strongly encouraged to consult with the USC Office of International Services about travel restrictions, visa processing, and other guidance related to their status as international students.