APPLICATION OVERVIEW
International Programs
USC Thornton International Programs offers dynamic overseas opportunities designed to expand upon and enhance your curriculum. The following guidelines will help you start the application process for your preferred program.
General Guidelines
Interested in studying abroad? Start with the guidelines below.
RESEARCH YOUR OPTIONS
Review the available programs as well as their course offerings. Scroll down to visit the Exchange program pages or review other opportunities.
SCHEDULE A MEETING
Discuss program details and finances with a study abroad advisor. Email music.intl@usc.edu to make an appointment.
CREATE A PLAN
Develop a study abroad plan with your major advisor based on the offerings at your desired destination. Identify the best time to go abroad.
FUND YOUR TRIP
Thornton students can apply aid to the cost of a USC-approved semester program. Scholarships are also available to qualified students, outlined in our resource guide.
SUBMIT AN APPLICATION
There are separate applications for your chosen program and for Thornton. Review the requirements carefully with your advisor, including application and withdrawal dates.
ATTEND AN ORIENTATION
The pre-departure session will cover USC requirements, the visa process, financial deadlines, course transfer, cultural adjustment, packing and other important logistics.
Thornton Timelines
The curated study abroad timelines below can help Thornton Trojans plan their trajectory. Final timeline requires approval from Thornton Academic Advisor and Faculty.
Exchange Applications
Applications for 2024-25 Semester Exchange open in early November and are due January 15. Review the application materials and deadlines through the options below: Thornton Students or Partner (International) Students.
Other Program Deadlines
USC Thornton additionally offers overseas programs through our Maymester and Short-Term Study options, with USC-wide opportunities through Global Scholars and the USC International Artist Fellowship. Program deadlines are updated on a rolling basis.
Maymester
Maymesters are spring courses that count as part of a spring semester load and travel for 3-4 weeks in late-May and early June. Students have the opportunity during spring registration to enroll for three courses for the traditional spring semester and one course in the Maymester.
USC Thornton Maymester programs for spring 2024 will be announced in November.
Short Term Trips
USC Thornton offers a variety of short, non-credit bearing trips, typically a week or less, related to a particular major area of study. These opportunites, in collaboration with international partners, change from year to year. Past trips have included a Jazz collaboration in Amsterdam; a strings chamber music project in France; choral singers performing in Ireland; a music festival in Singapore and early music master classes followed by a performance in Italy.
- These opportunities are only open to sophomores, juniors and seniors and selection is competitive.
- Opportunities are announced by USC Thornton International.
Global Scholars
The USC Global Scholars program rewards students who enrich their learning by spending at least ten weeks in other countries.
For more info visit: https://ahf.usc.edu/commencement-honors/scholar-distinctions/global/
USC International Artist Fellowship
The USC International Artist Fellowship Program celebrates a diversity of cultures in an increasingly interconnected world, with a focus on the Pacific Rim, Latin America and Southeast Asia.
For more info visit: https://globalartists.usc.edu
The USC International Artist Fellowship Program is not accepting new fellows at this time.
Stay Connected
Join our mailing list to be notified of general deadlines and travel announcements. Questions regarding Thornton International Exchange Programs can be directed to music.intl@usc.edu.