Recognized Student Organizations

RSOs are student-led groups created by and for students around shared interests, identities, or goals. While they may collaborate with departments, RSOs are expected to be run by students and not operate as extensions of academic programs, administrative offices, or unrecognized groups. Their purpose is to support student community, leadership, and engagement. The upcoming edition of the Student Handbook, to be issued in August, will offer further clarification on permitted and prohibited uses of RSOs, including expectations around academic and administrative independence.

USC has more than 800 student organizations, which are responsible for many of the programs and events held on campus, including concerts, lectures, special events, spirit rallies, cultural and social events, and conferences.

University recognition is required on annual basis to maintain the status of a university Recognized Student Organization (RSO).

RSO recognition status for groups who were recognized during 2024-25 ended June 30, 2025. Once approved, RSOs have recognition status for one academic year (between August 1-June 30). Please visit the following pages to learn more about the RSO process and resources.

RSO Recognition Process and Resources

Fall 2025 Recognition Process General Information 

Applications from groups that were recognized during the prior academic year are accepted during the Fall recognition process. The Fall recognition application is now live for groups who were recognized during the 2025-26 academic year. Further information on Fall 2025 recognition applications is available on the Recognition Process page (see link below).

Spring 2026 Recognition Process General Information 

• New RSOs and RSOs whose recognition has lapsed may apply for recognition during the Spring application cycle. Information on RSO applications for Spring 2025 will be available available following the close of the Fall 2025 application cycle.
• Any questions can be directed to Campus Activities at stuacts@usc.edu.

All RSOs are required to submit a recognition application for the 2025-2026 academic year. Approved applications will have official RSO recognition for one academic year (between August 1-June 30). Please visit the following pages to learn more about the RSO Process and resources: