I applied to USC and was accepted through the Questbridge College Match program (for very low income students). I was invited to Explore USC to interview for a chance at the Presidential Scholarship. My family is very low income and although I do have a job, I don’t think I will be able to fly to LA for the interview. I know they reimburse the flight costs but I can’t come up with 300+ dollars for this. I really want to go to USC, will financial aid be enough since I probably can’t win the scholarship? Does anyone know if they offer Skype interviews? I’m heartbroken about not being able to go, but minimum wage at my job and whatever money my parents can scrape together will likely not be enough to allow me.
No doubt this isn’t the first time it’s come up with QB candidates. Call them.
Financial Aid would very likely be enough for you attend USC, but you’d be throwing it to the mercy of the Financial AId office in lieu of a known quantity with the scholarship. I’m certain USC will make accommodations for you given your situation all the way up to simply wiring you your flight costs in advance, but you’d really have to communicate with them.
As a point of reference, if your parents make under 30-40k and don’t own a house, you’ll probably be paid down to 10k COA with grants, and the remainder can be covered with loans.
The scholarship has more benefits than 1/2 tuition, such as access to networking events through TSS and exceptional funding for the summer (which fin aid doesn’t cover). You should ask if they’ll cover your travel expenses. If you can’t interview, though, you should still receive enough aid to attend USC.
OP, call USC tomorrow. There is a liaison in the Admissions Office who deals with QB:
http://www.usc.edu/admission/undergraduate/findyourcounselor.html
Ask. I know that for our S (QB finalist) the school used a specific transportation service, and instead of taking a (cheaper) train we had to use a more expensive one, and make the reservation through a portal. They paid for it in a check at the time he arrived on campus for the program. Also be sure you are understanding the invitation, since often different administrative offices at the same school have gaps in communication. It is probably not necessary for the Match scholarship (see below) since the website specifically says that an interview is not necessary for QB Match. However it would be great for you to do it, and if your liaison suggests it then definitely make every effort!
If you are supposed to make your own arrangements, find a relative or friend with a credit card and get your ticket. Also be sure you know how you are getting from the airport to the campus. This expense would probably also be covered. Save a receipt.
This is one of those situations where it is hard for low-income students to overcome hurdles. But OP keep your eyes on the prize: http://www.questbridge.org/southerncalifornia-financial-aid
Thank you all so much for your help! I will be contacting USC to try and find a way to make it in March.