College Spotlight: University of San Diego
Get the inside scoop on USD.
Located in sunny San Diego, USD is a private Catholic liberal arts university where academic rigor meets a vibrant, purpose-driven community. With just over 6,000 undergraduates and an average class size of 21, students benefit from a highly personalized learning experience across more than 100 programs of study. Consistently ranked among the most beautiful campuses in the country by The Princeton Review, USD pairs its stunning setting with year-round 70-degree weather. As a designated Changemaker campus, students are encouraged to make a meaningful impact through service opportunities woven into classes, clubs, and global experiences. In fact, about 90 percent of students study abroad, bringing their education to life both locally and around the world. We had a chance to sit down with Martina Rivera, an Admission Counselor for USD, and she shared some great insights.
The Nest: Tell us a fun fact or about a tradition that is unique to your university.
Martina: Each semester, campus comes alive with one of USD’s most delicious traditions: our seasonal food festivals. In the fall, students celebrate at the Avocado Festival, while spring brings the Strawberry Festival. During these events, campus chefs craft creative, flavorful dishes centered around the featured ingredient and students can enjoy free treats, sample fresh local produce, compete in cooking challenges, and take part in fun games. It’s a vibrant, community-centered way to experience campus life and, of course, great food.
The Nest: What is the most unique major you offer?
Martina: One of our most unique offerings is our minor in Changemaking. At USD, Changemaking prepares students to become advocates for social impact through an interdisciplinary approach that blends entrepreneurship, leadership, social justice, law, and theology. Students don’t just study these concepts; they actively design and implement projects that address real-world challenges, gaining a deeper understanding of the systemic roots behind them while building empathy and collaboration skills. Along the way, they come to see how interconnected our communities are and how meaningful, lasting change happens when we work together.
The Nest: Who is the best-fit student for your university?
Martina: The best-fit student for USD is someone who is eager to be academically challenged and excited by rigorous coursework within a more personalized, intimate learning environment. They thrive in smaller class settings where meaningful interaction with faculty and peers is part of the everyday experience. USD students are driven and proactive, consistently seeking out opportunities, whether through research, internships or deep involvement in student life. It’s a community of highly engaged individuals who are motivated to make the most of every opportunity available to them.
The Nest: What application plans do you offer, and how should students determine which plan is best?
Martina: USD offers three application plans: Early Decision (ED), Early Action (EA) and Regular Decision (RD).
ED is a binding commitment and is best for students who are certain USD is their top choice. If admitted, students agree to withdraw all other applications and enroll at USD, provided their financial aid package meets their needs.
EA is non-binding and ideal for students who want to apply early, receive an earlier decision and still have time to explore their options. It gives students the flexibility to visit campus, connect with admission counselors and thoughtfully compare offers before the May 1 decision deadline.
RD is a great option for students who may need additional time to strengthen their application. Like EA, it is non-binding and allows students to make their final college decision by May 1. Ultimately, the best plan comes down to a student’s level of certainty about USD and how ready they feel to apply.
The Nest: What is your best application advice for prospective students?
Martina: My best advice is to start by connecting with our admission team. Whether you have questions or just want to introduce yourself, engaging with us can help you better understand USD and demonstrate your interest. We also encourage students to take full advantage of our recommendation letter policy. While only one academic letter is required, you can submit up to three. The additional letters can come from a coach, employer, pastor, mentor or anyone who knows you well and can speak to your character and impact from different perspectives. Finally, don’t hold back when sharing your experiences. USD values “changemaker” qualities, which can include leadership, service, global perspective and community involvement. Your application is your opportunity to showcase the full picture of who you are, so be sure to highlight the activities and experiences that have shaped you.
USD offers the best of both worlds: a stunning coastal setting with year-round beautiful weather and a deeply supportive academic community. With dedicated faculty and staff guiding your journey and abundant internship and career opportunities throughout San Diego, students graduate well prepared to take their next steps with confidence. To learn more and start your journey, visit sandiego.edu/BecomeATorero.
USD offers a level of flexibility and support that truly sets it apart. All students are admitted as undecided, giving you the freedom to explore different academic interests for up to two years before choosing a major, without the pressure of impacted programs or additional barriers to entry. This approach reflects our belief that college should be a time of discovery, allowing you to find and pursue what genuinely excites you. As a smaller institution, you’ll build meaningful connections not only with your professors and peers, but also with dedicated staff who are there to guide you every step of the way. From one-on-one career advising for internships, resumes, and interviews, to personalized support from the Study Abroad office, you’ll have access to resources designed to help you succeed both academically and professionally. Our central location in San Diego complements our amazing community. With the beach, downtown, the airport, and countless cultural attractions just minutes away, students can fully immerse themselves in everything the city has to offer while enjoying an accessible and vibrant campus experience.
Beyond what USD shared, here are some of the application insights and benefits of considering USD.
Application insights from The Nest:
USD is on the Common Application
Early Action: November 1
Early Decision: November 1
Regular Decision: January 15
Test-Blind
90% Retention Rate!
The takeaway: USD is a top-notch school where its beautiful changemaker environment matches its excellence in academics.
Helping you soar sooner,
Carrie