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.

RSO Recognition Process and Resources

University recognition is required on annual basis to maintain the status of a university Recognized Student Organization (RSO). All RSOs are required to submit a recognition application annually. Once approved, RSOs have recognition status for one academic year (between August 1-June 30).

The Fall 2026–2027 RSO Recognition cycle closed for initial submissions on September 8. The deadline for final modifications is Thursday, October 8. Please continue to monitor your EngageSC Chat and email for updates. Updates are sent to the student who submitted the application. This student is responsible for making any required modifications, communicating with Campus Activities staff using the EngageSC Chat, and providing updates to their fellow officers, RSO membership, and advisor.

The Spring 2027 cycle will open soon in October for new RSOs and RSOs seeking to re-establish after a lapse in recognition. Please submit this form if you would like to receive information about the spring application cycle.

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. Details on spring recognition info sessions will be shared soon.

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, 11:00am-12:00pm on Zoom or in-person SKS 410 (check in at front desk)
• Fridays, 2:00pm-3:00pm 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.
• Final Modifications Office Hours: A special office hours session to support RSOs in making their final modifications has been added on Thursday, September 8 from 11:00am-12:00pm on Zoom or in-person at SKS410. If attending in person, you should notify front desk staff of your arrival and scan the QR code to sign in.

Involvement Fair

Thank you to all RSOs that tabled at the Fall Involvement Fair! Information on the Spring Involvement Fair will be shared soon.