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
Please note: To be considered for supplemental funding, financial aid recipients (anyone receiving grants, scholarships, work-study, and/or loans) must connect with USC Financial Aid to discuss any available options that can meet their current financial needs.
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.
USC Financial Aid
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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
Additional Funding Opportunities
USC Alumni Association Scholarships
USC Dornsife Continuing Student Scholarships
Asian Pacific Alumni Association Scholarships
Black Alumni Association Scholarships
Graduate Student Government Emergency Fund
Half-Century Trojans Scholarships
Lambda LGBT Alumni Scholarships
Latino Alumni Association Scholarships
Norman Topping Student Aid Fund
Financial Wellness Resources
USC Credit Union
Offers free money management and financial education services year-round, including webinars, courses, coaching services, and other events.
USC Career Center
Includes articles and external resources related to personal finance and general financial literacy.