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.
If you have any questions related to Recognized Student Organizations, including events, fundraisers, recognition, advisor questions, and more, stop by our drop-in office hours to connect with a staff member.
- Tuesdays, 11:00 am-12:00 pm on Zoom or in-person SKS 410 (check in at front desk)
- Fridays, 2:00 pm-3:00 pm on Zoom or in-person SKS 410 (check in at front desk)
- *On Friday, October 30, office hours will be held from 10:00-11:00 am using the same link as above.
- *Please use the link above for the specific day you are attending office hours. Tuesday office hours and Friday office hours have different links.
RSO Recognition Process and Resources
The Spring 2027 RSO Recognition process is now open on EngageSC for new RSOs and RSOs re-establishing after a lapse in recognition. All student organizations* must complete recognition through the online recognition portal, EngageSC, on an annual basis. Recognition status for 2026-2027 runs for one academic year (between August 1-June 30) regardless of when an application is approved. Recognition for all previously recognized RSOs ended on June 30, 2026. RSO benefits are granted once an RSO has been recognized. Organizations that do not complete the recognition renewal process by the specified time will not receive recognition for the academic year and will lose all benefits.
If you hope to re-establish your RSO after a lapse in recognition and are not listed as an officer on the group’s page, please submit this form. RSOs that applied during fall should not submit a new recognition application. Recognition applications are submitted annually and recognition lasts from the date your application is approved through June 30, 2027.
*except “social fraternities and sororities” as defined by the Department of Education, which are recognized through The Office of Fraternity & Sorority Life (FSL).
If you need accessibility accommodations or have questions related to RSO recognition, please contact Campus Activities at stuacts@usc.edu.
Recognition Info Sessions and Office Hours
Info sessions provide an opportunity for officers to review recognition requirements, deadlines, processes, and resources with Campus Activities staff. Each presentation is followed by a Q&A session.
- Tuesday, November 3, 10:00-11:00 am on Zoom
- Tuesday, November 9, 2:30-3:30 pm on Zoom
- Tuesday, November 17, 4:00-5:00 pm on Zoom
New RSO Workshops help new RSO officers learn how to organize your e-board, craft your group’s mission and purpose, and build out your Constitution so you can get started on the right foot.
- Thursday, October 29, 4:00-5:00 pm on Zoom
Constitution and Accountability Document Workshops offer a brief overview of the Constitution and Accountability Document templates followed by breakout rooms to create your documents step by step, guided by a Campus Activities staff member.
Application Breakout Room: During office hours, a dedicated breakout room will be opened where students can ask application-specific questions and work alongside other RSOs with staff available to assist.
- Tuesdays, 11:00 am-12:00 pm on Zoom or in-person SKS 410 (check in at front desk)
- Fridays, 2:00 pm-3:00 pm on Zoom or in-person SKS 410 (check in at front desk)
- *Please use the link above for the specific day you are attending office hours. Tuesday office hours and Friday office hours have different links.
Involvement Fair
Thank you to all RSOs that tabled at the Fall Involvement Fair! Information on the Spring Involvement Fair will be shared soon.