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 Office Hours

Stop by our drop-in office hours to connect with a staff member on any questions related to Recognized Student Organizations, including events, fundraisers, recognition, advisor questions, and more.

Office hours for November 21 through December 9 will be held:

• Mondays 11am-12pm on Zoom and in person SKS 410 (Campus Activities office)
• Fridays 2-3pm on Zoom and in person SKS 410 (Campus Activities office)

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

Spring 2026 Recognition Process General Information 

• New RSOs and re-establishing RSOs (RSOs whose recognition has lapsed) may apply for recognition during the Spring application cycle. Please see the Recognition Process page for full details on the spring application cycle.

Fall 2025 Recognition Process General Information 

The Fall recognition application has now closed.

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. Questions can be directed to stuacts@usc.edu.