<p>I got a pretty good Financial Aid Package from USC so my family will have to pay around $15k, but I've been hearing that there are implicit costs of attending USC upto another $15k. I mean I live in Indiana so yeah I understand that there will be travelling expenses but the extra $15k seems ridiculous to me... whats like a reasonable spending/implicit cost at USC?</p>
<p>Beyond tuition and R&B, you should factor in travel, books (which can be a little or a lot, depending on your major and your ability to shop for used books), supplies/fees (for art, architecture, film, these can add up, but not in the thousands). Then you need to think about what you will spend on fun. My son was amazed at how cheap life at USC is; there are tons of free and low-cost activities that he’s taken advantage of. On the other hand, you could live the high life: clubbing, party scene, fancy clothes, a daily Starbucks habit, etc. It all depends on how you live normally. There’s no expectation that you need to spend a lot to have fun and a meaningful social life at USC.</p>
<p>Do you plan to bring a car? Parking is expensive at USC (everywhere, really) as is gas/insurance. Do you plan to buy a car? Even more $$! Will you pledge a fraternity/sorority? That is an additional expense, not to mention the clothes you may need for Greek events. </p>
<p>But it’s all up to you and the lifestyle you want to live–just like FauxNom said.</p>
<p>Our kids didn’t spend much beyond travel above & beyond the USC budget. Some kids do spend a lot but there are many who live very comfortably within the budget that USC uses for its FAid. Agree that a car adds significantly to costs–insurance, gas & parking.</p>