<p>I know USC is a very expensive school and I just wanted to know how you guys financed the whole thing? I'm really interested because USC is my top choice but it's really expensive, so I have no idea how I'm going to do it. ANy feedback would be nice.</p>
<p>USC was my top choice, as well (in 2003), but I actually turned it down for another school because, while my dad would find a way to pay for it, it wouldn't be the easiest thing. My financial aid package came then, and it was really great. I got a huge USC grant, so that was basically the clincher. USC will also give you bunches of loans if you want them and work study, as well. You can also go to fastweb or something like that and enter other scholarships.</p>
<p>I'm not sure what the percentage is, but few students actually pay out-of-pocket the entire tuition amount you see quoted. USC very aggressively recruits students it can give merit aid to and is also very good about meeting 100% of students financial need, from a need-based aid standpoint. Personally, my family is rather blue collar, and I received a sizeable grant too. Even for those students who don't receive grants or free merit money, the tuition is often financed through various loan structures. One rarely actually writes a check to USC for $44k.</p>
<p>Unfortunately, I was one of the rare bunch. I didnt receive a penny in aid, so i had to take a PLUS loan for the full amount :( Hopefully next year will be different.</p>
<p>I also couldn't get any aid, so I got a loan. I have no idea how I'm going to pay it off after college.</p>
<p>Scholarship $$$ (Pres + Engineering Merit)</p>