<p>In my fin aid packet i have $5,500 in loans, and an EFC of $4,570.
If I get outside scholarships, will that first decrease the loans or the EFC?
I also got a USC Town & Gown scholarship for $6,000- will that affect the loans or EFC?</p>
<p>In most cases, the outside scholarships can replace subsidized loans and work/study (but not UNsubsidized loans). In some cases they cannot, and the Fin Aid representative will explain the reasons if that applies to you. Your best bet is to contact the Financial aid office by email or mail and get a response in writing. Tell them your USC ID and the details of your scholarships (if they are restricted to tuition, or can be used for room, board, books and expenses), and ask that the scholarships replace your subsidized loans and/or work/study. You might reference their policy:</p>
<p>
[USC</a> Financial Aid - Grants & Scholarships - Undergradute - Outside USC Scholarships](<a href=“http://www.usc.edu/admission/fa/grants_scholarships/undergraduates/outsideusc.html]USC”>http://www.usc.edu/admission/fa/grants_scholarships/undergraduates/outsideusc.html)</p>
<p>Before any scholarships are applied to EFC, they would first have to completely replace need-based grants. Be sure to keep any written or email response and always make note of the name of the person you talk to. Good luck!</p>