<p>The economy might actually make USC even more attractive relative to other privates or OOS public universities. SC is extremely generous with merit aid, unlike the top LACs and Ivy-type schools. There could be more people now who don’t have “demonstrated need” but will find the scholarships very compelling.</p>
<p>But if you don’t get merit- or need-based aid, an in-state school might be the most reasonable choice, depending on your own financial situation.</p>