Merit-Based Aid

The USC Thornton School of Music awards scholarships to students with outstanding demonstrated talent in the student's chosen field of study. All students, both domestic and international, are evaluated and awards are given based on the following: [1] a recommendation from the faculty of the student's department and [2] availability of funding. Some consideration may also be given to financial need. It must be noted, however, that a faculty recommendation for Thornton School of Music merit aid does not guarantee that a student will be awarded a scholarship. It must also be noted that, for students receiving need-based aid, the combination of all merit, departmental or outside agency scholarships or loans may not exceed the USC-determined financial need.