<p>May 1st is approaching and I have narrowed down my two choices to USC (cost of attendance $23000) and my home school the University of Maryland College Park (cost of attendance $9000).</p>
<p>This decision brings up a few issues. I sent my financial aid application materials to USC late, so my aid package may not meet 100% of what USC determines is my financial need. However, if it is given that USC did not meet what they determined was my need and my financial support remains the same, would I receive the 100% if I applied on time as a sophomore and in my following years? </p>
<p>My father is retired due to disability and my mother is partially unemployed (sometimes her employer offers her work but when she doesn't have work she has to apply for workers compensation) so my financial support is shaky. Due to my financial situation, I have contacted the USC financial aid office to request for more money if possible and if they can explain my aid package and how to manage it. Has anyone had a similar experience and how was the result?</p>
<p>The financial aid issue is what I'm most concerned about, but if anyone is willing to help me weigh the factors of going to USC vs UMD that would be great. I have been thinking heavily about this decision myself.</p>
<p>
Did you ask what USC determined was your “need?” It may be that they have met 100% of your USC-determined need. USC uses the FAFSA and the CSS/Profile, which considers assets the FAFSA does not, to determine your need - so the amount you are expected to contribute may be more than your FAFSA EFC. What amount did USC determine your family should contribute, and does your aid cover the rest?</p>
<p>Alamemom, sorry if I phrased that weakly I understand the concept of the USC-determined need. What I am saying is that because my application for financial aid was late, they do not have to guarantee they meet 100% of my financial need. USC has brought my total costs down to 23,000 from 55,000 from a 25,000 grant, work study and two loans. </p>
<p>With that said, what I want to know is if the amount they gave me is less than what they would’ve had I applied on time, would I receive the 100% if I apply on time the following years? Basically, do they base your aid package off the first application or do they reconsider your financial support every year?</p>
<p>What I am saying is that the package you received may already be for 100% of USC-determined need. Call and ask if you were penalized for late paperwork. They will probably tell you that they gave you all the aid for which you were eligible and did not penalize you in any way.</p>
<p>USC will calculate your aid each year based on the information you submit each year. If your income goes up, your aid goes down. If your income goes down, your aid goes up.</p>
<p>Again, I am saying you are assuming that is a reduced package. I do not think it is. Call to ask, because it is probably a complete package.</p>
<p>Alamemom,</p>
<p>Sorry for misunderstanding your post. I will call as soon as possible. Thanks.</p>