The estimated cost of attendance (budget) used to determine your financial aid eligibility includes tuition and mandatory fees based on your enrollment plans, as well as average amounts for standard educational expenses such as room and board.  Also included are books, supplies, local transportation, and miscellaneous expenses.  If your actual expenses are higher than the amount used in your current budget or you have other expenses not included in the budget, you may request a budget increase.  Budget increases are typically funded with PLUS Loans or student private financing.

To request a budget increase, submit a written request and include supporting documentation.

• Child care expense
• Additional course-related expenses (fees, equipment, books, etc)
• Disability-related expenses during the academic year
• Mandatory USC Student Health and Dental Insurance
• Rent exceeding the standard budget ($755 per month for Undergraduate and $1,200 per month for Graduate)
• Meal Plan exceeding the standard budget
• Travel expenses for students from outside California (two round-trips per school year)
• Computer purchase and related computer software (one time)
• MD students: Rotations and Interview expenses