At USC Student Basic Needs, we support students experiencing economic insecurity with care, confidentiality, and compassion. Economic insecurity refers to inconsistent access to the financial resources, services, and supports needed to maintain a basic standard of living while pursuing a degree.
We provide individualized support and connect students to critical resources, including:
- Supplemental Funding Awards – financial support to help cover essential expenses such as food, rent/housing, healthcare, or childcare during times of unexpected need
- Financial Navigation Consultations – one-on-one sessions to help students create personalized budgets, plan around financial aid disbursements, and leverage campus and community resources effectively
If you are currently experiencing financial hardship—or are unsure whether your situation qualifies—please complete a contact form.
Our economic support services are intended to complement students’ existing financial resources by providing short-term assistance during times of unexpected hardship. While not designed to replace primary funding sources such as financial aid, employment, or family support, these programs help students bridge financial gaps, cover urgent needs, and access tools that build long-term stability. By offering timely support, we aim to reduce stress, promote well-being, and allow students to remain focused on their academic and personal goals.
Student Basic Needs Supplemental Funding
The Student Basic Needs Supplemental Funding is a one-time funding opportunity designed to help currently enrolled students who are experiencing sudden financial distress due to unforeseen circumstances. These awards are available for students experiencing financial difficulties that jeopardize their success or continued enrollment at USC and who have exhausted all other resources. Examples may include, but are not limited to, housing costs, food costs, or unforeseen dental/medical costs.
Examples of how awards can be used:
- Housing/rent expenses;
- Food expenses;
- Unforeseen medical/dental expenses;
- Childcare expenses
Examples of how awards cannot be used:
- Transportation expenses (e.g. gas);
- Vehicle repairs/expenses (e.g. car parts);
- Books, supplies, or technology expenses;
- Tuition & fees
Eligibility
- Student must be enrolled at least half time, and in the term (i.e. Fall, Spring, Summer) funds are being requested
- Have sudden financial distress due to unforeseen circumstances
- Have a $0 bill balance with the university
- Receive approval from Financial Aid. Student Basic Needs will connect with the Financial Aid Office on your behalf
- Must be able to supply any additional information requested such as bills, receipts, or other documents
Application Process
Once you have connected with USC Financial Aid (if applicable), and have met the above eligibility requirements, please complete the Student Basic Needs Supplemental Funding Award application via USC Scholarship Universe. Students must log in using the USC Undergraduate Applicant or USC Graduate Applicant option.
Fall & Spring Application Cycle
The Supplemental Funding Award is a limited, need-based resource that opens around the sixth week of each semester. The application remains open for a two-week window, during which students are encouraged to apply as early as possible.
After the application period closes, the review and processing phase begins, which typically takes up to four weeks. During this time, the Student Basic Needs team and campus partners carefully review each application to ensure eligibility and consistent distribution of available funds. Applicants will be notified of their funding decision once this process is complete.
Resources
Explore financial resources available to support students with funding access, money management, and navigating economic challenges during their academic journey.
Emergency Information: immediate resources for those who have been impacted by the Los Angeles area fires
Help and Contact
- Phone: (213) 740-4444, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time (M-F)
- Online Assistance and Email Inquiries
Special Circumstances and Appeals
- Undergraduate Special Circumstances and Appeals
- Graduate & Professionals Special Circumstances and Appeals
Special Populations
Federal Work-Study
USC Scholarship Universe is an online tool that helps currently enrolled students identify scholarship opportunities that align with their academic background, interests, and financial circumstances. By completing a brief profile, students can access both USC-affiliated and external scholarships in one centralized platform.
Scholarship Universe is designed to simplify the search process and connect students to funding opportunities that may help offset educational and living-related expenses.
Graduate Student Government (GSG) offers several funding programs designed to support graduate students facing unexpected financial challenges, caregiving responsibilities, accessibility needs, and professional development or academic travel costs. These funds help reduce financial barriers that may impact students’ academic progress and well-being.
Available funding opportunities include:
- GSG Emergency Fund
Supports graduate students experiencing unexpected financial emergencies. - GSG Caretaker Subsidy Fund
Provides assistance to graduate students who are primary caretakers to help offset caregiving-related expenses. - GSG Empowerment Award
Supports professional development needs such as conferences, certifications, or academic enrichment opportunities. - GSG Travel Award
Assists graduate students with costs related to academic or conference travel. - GSG Neuropsychological Evaluation (NPE) Fund
Helps offset the cost of neuropsychological evaluations required for diagnostic clarity and access to academic accommodations.
Students should review eligibility requirements and application timelines directly through GSG.
USC Credit Union offers free financial wellness resources to support students in building money management skills. Services include workshops, online courses, one-on-one coaching, and educational events available year-round.