Predicted, total radio silence and their faculty excel sheet, which I interested stated not going recruit any PhD student.

received an invitation to interview, but I rejected it because I have already accepted offer from another school

No email, just happened to check portal since it still said submitted/under review. However, generic letter of rejection.

Accepted off the waitlist! Have accepted and declined my other offers. Good luck, everyone.

interviewed late march to early April.

Email to check portal

I am on the waitlist. If you dont accept the offer, please reject it asap. I am waiting.

Rejected via portal folks! Dear Bah Bah Bah, I am writing in regard to your application for admission to graduate study at the University of Southern California. After careful review of your application and supporting materials, the Admission Committee has asked me to inform you that we are unable to offer you admission to the Doctor of Philosophy program in Literature and Creative Writing for Fall 2026. We understand this must be very disappointing news. Please bear in mind that each year the university receives applications from many more students than it can accommodate. Admissibility is determined by the size of the applicant pool as well as student credentials. Unfortunately, as a result we are not able to offer admission to some students of significant ability and potential. We encourage you to continue to work toward your educational and professional goals, and wish you every success in your future endeavors. Sincerely, you.usc.edu Timothy E. Brunold Dean of Admission

Wow, what a twist at the end of the cycle. This is my second cycle of applications to graduate school. I didn't get into any fully funded MA programs last time, let alone any PhDs. This year, among the PhDs I've been admitted to now include my dream school. It feels weird and it hasn't fully kicked in yet. To those who didn't have luck this cycle: if you feel philosophy is for you, please don't give up. I am not especially gifted nor talented. This process is grueling and unforgiving. I happened to stick with it and luck was on my side this time around. I'll reiterate: please don't give up. If I can do it, you can too.

Emailed with PhD rejection, invited to opt in to consideration for MS. Undergrad with 2 years of research experience but no publications yet.

logged into portal to download decision letter (no mail)