Hey everyone, I'm thinking about applying to USC, but I'm not sure how much the tuition is. Does anyone know the current cost of attendance? Financial aid will be a big factor in my decision.
Hey there! As of the 2024-2025 academic year, the estimated cost of attendance at the University of Southern California (USC) is approximately $95,000 per year for undergraduate students. This amount includes tuition, fees, housing, meals, and other expenses like books and personal spending.
Keep in mind that these costs are subject to change each year. They tend to trend upwards due to inflation and other factors, so it's a good idea to check USC's official website for the most up-to-date information.
Regarding financial aid, although the sticker price can be intimidating, USC does offer need-based aid and merit scholarships to eligible students, so many students end up paying far less out of pocket. Make sure to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the CSS Profile to be considered for need-based aid.
When you apply to USC, you're automatically considered for merit-based scholarships, so there's no separate process for that - just make sure you apply by the scholarship deadline of November 1 (for most majors, although some have a deadline of December 1 instead). There may be departmental scholarships with separate applications, though, so make sure you check out USC's website to see what your options are.
It's also a smart idea to use USC's net price calculator to get an estimate of the financial aid package you might receive. This tool will give you a better idea of the actual cost of attending USC based on your individual financial situation. If you have any questions about the cost of attendance or your eligibility for aid or scholarships, you can always reach out to USC's financial aid office directly - they're there to help!
Lastly, remember to research and apply for external scholarships from businesses, community organizations, and other sources to maximize your financial aid and minimize your out-of-pocket costs. Even small awards can add up!
On a separate note, if you decide to apply to USC and want tips on how to maximize your chances of acceptance, so that you can take advantage of their various financial aid opportunities, check out this blog post from CollegeVine, which breaks down how to tackle their school-specific supplemental essays: https://blog.collegevine.com/how-to-write-the-usc-essays
Good luck!
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