How Much Will My Education Cost?

The USC estimated cost of attendance is a figure used to determine your financial aid eligibility. It includes average amounts for standard expenses, such as tuition, fees, books, supplies, housing, meals and other living expenses.

Keep in mind that your actual costs may differ. Additionally, estimated budgets for students in some programs may be higher because of longer enrollment periods, special laboratory or studio supply fees, or other additional costs incurred by all students in the program. Tuition is charged at the same rate for both in-state and out-of-state residents.

Your estimated cost of attendance is available online at your Financial Aid Summary and Tasks (FAST) page. In some cases, we can increase your budget to take into account additional expenses. For more information, see Special Circumstances and Appeals.

*The tuition amount is based on an estimated number of units for each enrollment level. For example, for most Master’s degree students, full-time is based on 10 units, and half-time is based on 6 units. Enrollment levels differ by program. If your actual tuition exceeds the amount in the estimated cost of attendance, you can request a budget increase.

**Room and board amounts are based on the assumption that students will not maintain the same standard of living they did while employed. This may mean cutting expenses by living with roommates, preparing more meals at home or making other lifestyle adjustments.

Students enrolled in the Thornton School of Music’s certificate program should select “Doctoral” from the “Program” drop-down menu and refer to the Half-Time Graduate Cost of Attendance shown in the table above. Students in Thornton’s master’s degree programs (with the exception of Arts Leadership, Music Industry, and Screen Scoring) should select “Doctoral” from the “Program” drop-down menu and refer to the Full-Time Doctoral (6-9 units) Cost of Attendance.

Students in the Arts Leadership, Music Industry, and Screen Scoring programs should select “Masters” from the “Program” drop-down menu and refer to the Flat Rate Graduate cost of attendance.

Students enrolled in dual-degree programs should review the estimated costs for their anticipated enrollment in each individual program.

Students will also be charged a new student fee their first semester.

 

Payment Deadlines and Methods

For detailed information, visit the USC Student Financial Services website.

 

Investing in Graduate Education

Cost is often a crucial part of the decision-making process when students choose a college or university. The information contained in the Investing in Graduate Education booklet will help you navigate the financial aid process at USC.