<p>find schools with generous finaid programs that declare they are a) needblind and b) meet 100% of demonstrated need. the above posters are correct in saying that the money you receive from federal loans alone (based on your EFC that comes out of your FAFSA) will NOT cover your cost of attendance. </p>
<p>for example, USC gave out $192million of its own money in grants and scholarships to students. federal grants totaled only $15million, state grants only $17million, and federal loans $130million.</p>
<p>i think your gpa is too low for USC but you do have rather extenuating circumstances working so much. so even if USC is not an option i would really recommend taking some time to research schools that meet 100% need.</p>