Policy on Outside Funding
When possible, USC allows outside funding for QuestBridge Scholars to replace the student contribution, rather than the USC grant aid, in a financial aid award. Funding in excess of the student contribution will reduce the USC grant aid that would otherwise be provided. In some cases, it may be necessary to reduce work study first, then the USC grant aid in a financial aid award.
Policy on Health Insurance
USC requires all students to have health insurance, either through a parent or another plan. If a student is not covered by an existing plan, the USC grant aid will be increased to pay for the USC Student Health Insurance.
Policy on Student Contribution
Students may replace the student income/summer work contribution with loans.
Requirements Associated with Maintaining this Award
The QuestBridge award is only available for eight undergraduate semesters. Students will lose eligibility for this award at the ninth semester of undergraduate enrollment. If a QuestBridge Scholar continues their attendance at USC past their nine semesters of eligibility, they will be able to apply for regular need-based financial aid. Students must maintain a greater than 2.0 GPA to maintain eligibility.
Other Details
Students will also be required to submit a FAFSA as soon as possible to determine their eligibility for federal aid. California Residents will be required to apply for a Cal Grant by submitting a GPA Verification Form to CSAC. AB-540-Eligible California Residents must complete the online California Dream Act Application by March 2. Visit the California Student Aid Commission website for the application.
University of Southern California’s Financial Aid Overview
USC guarantees to meet 100% of demonstrated need of all admitted students, regardless of their financial background. While students and their parents are expected to contribute to the cost of their education, USC is dedicated to helping them make up the difference, and in awarding financial aid, will consider factors such as family income, family size, number of siblings in college and other special circumstances.
USC is looking for the most academically promising students including those with financial disadvantages, and expects that many QuestBridge applicants will qualify for exceptional financial aid through the student's four years at USC.
