Applying for Aid

Complete these steps to apply for the Federal Direct Loan and Graduate PLUS Loan programs.

Other funding options, such as merit-based scholarships, private financing programs, and a short-term payment plan, are also available.

Application Deadline: April 1, 2024

Steps to apply

  • 1

    Complete the FAFSA Application online.

    • Use your 2022 student income. We recommend using the IRS Data Retrieval Tool to automatically import your most recent income tax information into the FAFSA.
    • USC’s Federal School Code is 001328.
    • Apply as soon as December 2023 but before the April 11, 2024, deadline
  • 2

    Follow the instructions provided on your Financial Aid Summary and Tasks (FAST) page to complete and submit the Financial Aid Supplement online.

  • 3

    Respond to any requests for additional information within 10 days.

    Important Note: Documents submitted to the USC Financial Aid Office become the property of the university and cannot be returned to the student or duplicated for any purpose.

  • 4

    Admitted and continuing students who meet all requirements will be notified of their financial aid eligibility online.

    You will need to complete additional steps to ensure that your loans are processed and available in time to pay your semester tuition and fees. Read more in the Loans section of this website.