The University of Southern California (USC) offers a range of merit-based scholarships to international students, including those from Canada and Australia. These scholarships are designed to recognize academic excellence and leadership potential. However, it’s important to note that USC does not offer need-based financial aid to international students.Study Abroad Aide
🎓 USC Scholarships Overview
1. Presidential Scholarship
- Award: Half-tuition
- Eligibility: Top 200 students in the applicant pool
- Criteria: Superior academic achievement, strong leadership experience, and exceptional talent
- Application: No separate application required; considered upon submission of the Common Application
- Note: Only open to first-year studentsShiksha+9Study Abroad Aide+9Instagram+9
2. International Freshman Academic Scholarship
- Award: Varies
- Eligibility: First-year international students
- Criteria: Excellent academic record, innovation, perseverance, and substantial leadership experience
- Application: Submit the Common Application, USC Supplement, proof of financial support, and supporting documentsInstagram+4The Trojan Scholars Society+4Study Abroad Aide+4Study Abroad Aide+1Top Colleges and Universities in India+1
3. Fisher Fellows Program
- Award: $10,000 (distributed over three academic years)
- Eligibility: First-generation undergraduate students majoring in USC Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences
- Criteria: Minimum GPA of 3.0, substantial financial need, and involvement in leadership activities
- Benefits: Includes speaker engagements, leadership seminars, and mentoring programsStudy Abroad Aide
4. Continuing Student Scholarship
- Award: At least $5,000
- Eligibility: Continuing students enrolled in a USC Dornsife major
- Criteria: Minimum GPA of 3.0, academic excellence, community and extracurricular involvement, and leadership potential
- Application: Separate application required; over 20 scholarships availableStudy Abroad Aide
💰 Tuition and Fees (2023–2024 Academic Year)
For international students, the cost of attendance includes tuition, fees, books, supplies, and living expenses.UnivStats
| Category | On-Campus | Off-Campus |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition & Fees | $68,237 | $68,237 |
| Books & Supplies | $1,200 | $1,200 |
| Room & Board | $19,198 | $19,198 |
| Other Expenses | $1,818 | $1,818 |
| Total Cost of Attendance | $90,453 | $90,453 |
Note: The total cost remains the same regardless of living arrangement. UnivStats
📊 Financial Aid and Scholarships for International Students
| Scholarship Type | Availability | Amount Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Merit-Based Scholarships | Yes | $10,000 – $69,900 | Based on academic excellence, leadership, and talent |
| Need-Based Financial Aid | No | N/A | Not available for international students |
| On-Campus Employment | Yes | Varies | Available to international students |
| Off-Campus Employment | Limited | Varies | Requires permission from the Office of International Services |
| Private Financing | Yes | Varies | Requires a credit-worthy U.S. co-borrower |
Note: International students are not eligible for federal or university need-based financial aid. Financial Aid
🇨🇦 Canadian Students: Opportunities at USC
While USC does not offer specific scholarships exclusively for Canadian students, they are eligible for the same merit-based scholarships as other international students. Additionally, Canadian students may explore external funding options such as:
- Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships: Offers $50,000 per year for three years to doctoral students demonstrating leadership skills and high scholarly achievement. Wikipedia
- Canadian Government Scholarships: Various programs available for Canadian students studying abroad.
🇦🇺 Australian Students: Opportunities at USC
Australian students are also eligible for USC’s merit-based scholarships. In addition to these, they may consider:Study Abroad Aide
- Endeavour Leadership Program: Provides funding for Australian students to undertake study, research, and professional development overseas.
- Australian Government Scholarships: Various programs available for Australian students studying abroad.
✅ Application Tips
- Apply Early: Submit applications by November 1 or December 1 to be considered for scholarships.
- Prepare Documents: Ensure all required documents, including transcripts, letters of recommendation, and proof of financial support, are ready.
- Highlight Achievements: Emphasize academic excellence, leadership roles, and extracurricular involvement in your application.