USC Viterbi

Viterbi Summer Institute

The Viterbi Summer Institute (VSI) is a high-achievement program designed to enhance the transition to USC for incoming first-year engineering students. Institute participants will gain a competitive edge engaging with faculty, staff, and students in a supportive community environment. The four-week program consists of two weeks of virtual engagement and two weeks of residential in-person programming that help prepare students to succeed and thrive as Viterbi students.

Benefits of Participating in VSI

College Expereince

Free on-campus experience

Build confidence and community through a free on-campus program designed to ease your transition to college.

Academic Development

Build college-level learning strategies

Develop advanced study and learning strategies to succeed in your first year and beyond.

Community & Events

Develop community at USC

Build your peer support network of new incoming students and upper-class students.

Resources

Exposure to USC and Viterbi resources

Discover undergraduate opportunties at USC relating to mental health, academics, and more!

Student Life

Learn about USC engineering clubs

Connect with student organizations that match your interests while building community, leadership skills, and real-world experience.

Excursions

Experience South Los Angeles

Explore Los Angeles through curated weekend excursions designed for students.

Who Should Apply

Everyone is welcome to apply, and we especially encourage students who would benefit from support in transitioning to college life and the field of engineering to take advantage of this opportunity.

Whether you're the first in your family to go to college, coming from a high school with fewer STEM resources, or simply looking for a strong community to help you adjust, we welcome all interested students to apply! When selecting students to participate, we will take into consideration a range of factors to help us support those who will benefit most from the program.

01 Financial aid eligibility
02 First-generation college student status
03 Intended engineering major


USC Viterbi FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about VSI

01 How much does the program cost?

Thanks to generous industry sponsors, and The Viterbi School of Engineering, all VSI activities, housing, meal plan, and weekend excursions are covered. VSI participants and families are responsible for the cost of transportation to and from campus and meals during excursions. If these costs present a barrier to participate, we will offer funding grants as support. Please contact the JBS staff at vjbs@usc.edu for support.

02 What if I cannot afford transportation to and from campus?

Travel grants are available for any student in need of financial support getting to and/or from campus during the month of July. Please indicate on your application that you are interested in receiving a Travel Grant if you are in need of financial assistance with your cost of travel.

03 When is the deadline to apply?

Currently the deadline is TBD. To apply please do the following:

  1. Submit Application: Use the Apply Now section on our website.
  2. Share Your Interests: Add a short note about your technical and social interests.
  3. Interview: Selected candidates are invited for a quick conversation.
  4. Onboarding: Participating students will receive orientation material.
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Typical response time is 1 to 2 weeks.
04 Do the courses we take during VSI count as unit credit?

The courses do not count as unit credit, but will help students get a sense of what to expect out of college-level classes at USC.

05 Am I able to leave on the weekends?

No. The weekends will include organized trips and social activities to assist in building friendships and support networks. If there isa concern you have about the weekends or if you are unable to participate in a weekend activity, please contact the JBS staff at vjbs@usc.edu

Some past activities include:

  • Universal Studios
  • Dodger Game
  • Santa Monica Trip
USC Viterbi FAQ

Interested in Supporting?

Your gift makes a world of a difference in supporting incoming undergradute Viterbi students. To donate click the link below or contact our staff at vjbs@usc.edu.