Student Basic Needs offers economic support for students experiencing financial insecurity of having a stable and predictable income to support a standard of living.
Financial insecurity refers to the inability of students to access financial resources to be a successful student or find the resources to gain financial literacy, such as educational materials to understand what resources are available and where to receive additional support.
The Student Basic Needs Supplemental Funding is a one-time funding opportunity designed to help currently enrolled students who are experiencing sudden financial distress due to unforeseen circ*mstances. These awards are available for students experiencing financial difficulties that jeopardize their success or continued enrollment at USC and who have exhausted all other resources. Examples may include, but are not limited to housing costs, food costs, or unforeseen dental/medical costs.
Examples of how awards can be used:
- Housing/rent expenses;
- Food expenses;
- Unforeseen medical/dental expenses;
- Childcare expenses
Examples of how awards can’t be used:
- Transportation expenses (e.g. gas);
- Vehicle repairs/expenses (e.g. car parts);
- Books, supplies, or technology expenses;
- Tuition & fees
Please note: To be considered for supplemental funding, financial aid recipients (anyone receiving grants, scholarships, work-study, and/or loans) must connect with USC Financial Aid to discuss any available options that can meet their current financial needs.
Eligibility
- Student must be enrolled at least half time, and in the term (i.e. Fall, Spring, Summer) funds are being requested
- Have sudden financial distress due to unforeseen circ*mstances
- Have a $0 bill balance with the university
- Receive approval from Financial Aid. Student Basic Needs will connect with the Financial Aid Office on your behalf
- Must be able to supply any additional information requested such as bills, receipts, or other documents
Application Process
Once you have connected with USC Financial Aid (if applicable), and have met the above eligibility requirements, please complete the Student Basic Needs Supplemental Funding Award application via USC Scholarship Universe. Students must log in using either the USC Undergraduate Applicant or USC Graduate Applicant option.
Fall 2024 Application
- The Fall 2024 application is currently postponed until further notice. Please check back for updates. All applications will be considered until funding is depleted.
Help and Contact
Phone: (213) 740-4444, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time (M-F)
Online Assistance and Email Inquiries
Special Circ*mstances and Appeals
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Graduate & Professionals Special Circ*mstances and Appeals
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