<p>Hello, people. I was offered admission to USC and to the major I applied to (by the way, I thank all those who helped me here on CC back when I was building up my application). The huge problem is, I do not have the funds to pay for everything, and as an international student, I can't apply for any need-based financial aid. I wanted to ask you the following questions regarding this matter:</p>
<p>1 - Is it still possible to receive merit-based financial aid at this point?</p>
<p>2 - I thought of following the monthly payment plan, but still could do so only partially. Is it acceptable to owe money, and pay the rest of the amount when possible? If so, is it interest-free?</p>
<p>3 - What university entity would be best to contact regarding all this?</p>
<p>Help would be much appreciated. Thanks in advance.</p>
<p>I am not sure if International students can get student loans but if they can I think that would be your best bet. Also, surf around on the internet and you might be able to find some third party grants more specifically geared towards international students.</p>
<p>Thanks for the answer FilmFanatic. I've considered loans before, but the catch is that I'd have to repay them - with extras added. I can't really afford it.</p>
<p>Anyway, do you think it would be rash to apply for housing at this time, before knowing whether I'll get a scholarship award or not?</p>
<p>Well, I think with USC you have to confirm your acceptance before you apply for housing. So if you think you might not be able to afford it then I dont really know. I think you should call them. You could always go and then first day of school go to the financial aid office and be like I cant afford this I need to make a payment plan.</p>
<p>No, put your housing deposit in now. It's $30. You don't need to submit your SIR first.</p>
<p>Call USC's Financial Aid office immediately!!! They are the only ones who can answer your questions and give you solid advice; do not rely on anyone else.</p>
<p>You can not just show up on the first day "and be like I can't afford this. I need a payment plan." That is completely irresponsible and you run the risk that USC may just tell you it's too late for them to help you out at that point. You need to get your financing lined up BEFORE you enroll -- whatever combination of your own money, scholarships (if available), loans, and/or payment plans that will work for you. Otherwise you run the risk of having to drop out of school when your money runs out. You HAVE to plan ahead.</p>
<p>Thanks for your help everyone. I will contact the office of admissions and ask for an alternative payment plan if I don't win some kind of financial award. </p>
<p>Meanwhile, I think I will apply for housing. I understand one doesn't need the enrollment deposit to apply for it, as SoCalGal09 wrote, so it wouldn't be wrong to apply for housing now (the sooner the better as they assign housing on a first-come first-serve basis), is it?</p>
<p>Explain your financial situation to the financial aid office. If you can't afford USC then you need to find another affordable university and maybe consider transferring to USC for the last two years if you have enough money to pay the last two years. You can still get a USC degree if you are there the last two years before graduating. Do not go into debt.</p>