Benefits of Recognition
Recognized Student Organizations (RSOs) are officially recognized through Campus Activities within the Division of Student Life. Recognition is valid for one academic year and provides organizations with access to a variety of University resources and opportunities. In return, organizations are expected to uphold University policies and demonstrate responsible leadership.
Recognized Student Organizations may:
- Post notices on campus in accordance with the University’s posting policy.
- Reserve campus facilities for meetings, programs, and events.
- Apply for University funding, including student government funding opportunities.
- Conduct fundraising in accordance with the University’s Sales and Fundraising Policy. Organizations may fundraise only to benefit their own organization, another student organization, or an approved philanthropic organization or relief effort. Outside organizations may support events through approved in-kind donations only. Individual students may not receive personal financial benefit, discounts, goods, or services from organizational fundraising activities.
- Receive discounted rates on select facility and equipment rentals.
- Open and maintain an organizational account with the USC Credit Union.
- Request an official organizational email account.
- Use the University’s name, logos, and trademarks in accordance with the USC Graphic Identity Program and applicable University policies. Organizations must make it clear that they are student organizations affiliated with USC and not official University departments or offices.
Maintaining Recognition
To remain in good standing, Recognized Student Organizations are expected to:
- Follow all University policies, procedures, and applicable laws.
- Operate as student-led and student-run organizations.
- Maintain open membership in accordance with University policies and the organization’s mission.
- Limit voting membership and officer positions to currently enrolled USC students.
- Include a non-discrimination statement in the organization’s governing documents, consistent with University policy.
- Demonstrate responsible leadership and stewardship of University resources throughout the academic year.
Failure to meet these expectations may result in the limitation, suspension, or loss of recognition and associated RSO privileges.
Specialized Organization Oversight
Some organizations receive additional oversight based on their mission or activities.
- Office of Religious & Spiritual Life (ORSL): Religious organizations must satisfy the recognition requirements established by ORSL before receiving University recognition.
- USC Recreational Sports / Recreational Club Council (RCC): Club Sports organizations seeking RCC recognition must also comply with Recreational Sports requirements.
- Fraternity & Sorority Life (FSL): Social fraternities and sororities are recognized and supported through FSL and must comply with University expectations, governing council requirements, and applicable inter/national organization policies.
- Campus Activities: Campus Activities oversees all other Recognized Student Organizations and supports organizations representing academic, professional, cultural, service, recreational, artistic, political, spiritual, and special-interest communities.
Additional information regarding these oversight areas is available in the official memorandum: Campus Activities–FSL Memo.