Describing Logos and Marks
Every logo needs alt text. USC logos and marks have standard alt text, seen in the examples on this page. For all other logos, you will need to write the alt text yourself, so here are a few simple guidelines to follow.
1. Say that the image is a logo.
Since screen readers do not understand the difference between logos and other images, using the word "logo" helps users understand the image's purpose.
2. Include any text in the image.
Like all other types of images, your alt text must include all words in the logo as screen readers cannot access that text in any other way.
3. Follow the standard format.
For logos, the format should always be "[Organization name] logo."
Is your image also a link?
If your image is a link, it cannot be marked as decorative. You'll need to follow
the practices for linked images instead.
Linked Image Instructions »
Examples: Official Alt Text for USC Logos & Seals
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Centered Logo with Palm and Gates
Bad Alt Text: logo
Correct Alt Text: University of South Carolina logo.
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Horizontal Logo
Bad Alt Text: logo
Correct Alt Text: University of South Carolina logo.
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Unit Logos
Bad Alt Text: education logo
Correct Alt Text: University of South Carolina College of Education logo.
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Athletics Logo
Bad Alt Text: gamecock logo
Correct Alt Text: University of South Carolina Athletics logo.
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University Seal
Bad Alt Text: seal
Correct Alt Text: University of South Carolina seal.
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