GSG Funding for RSOs
GSG funding opportunities for RSOs (Recognized Student Organizations) support graduate student-run programming related to cultural, academic, and social enrichment.
GSG funding comes from the Student Programming Fee that all graduate students pay into. In that spirit, GSG General Funds are distributed to support RSO events that are open to all graduate students.
How to Apply for GSG RSO Funding
A designated representative from your RSO (e.g., Treasurer) must complete the mandatory training to access the application. Be prepared by completing training early — applications are due 6–7 weeks before your event date (varies by event type).
1) Complete mandatory GSG Finance training
Review the online orientation, then complete the assessment (link appears at the end of the presentation).
2) Pass Finance Assessment
Demonstrate your understanding of application requirements and responsibilities.
3) Reference RSO Guidebook as needed
Use the orientation + resources below to review detailed requirements before you apply.
4) Submit your application on EngageSC
Submit your funding application on GSG’s EngageSC page here.
Key Resources & Links
Training Links
RSO Funding Guidebook : https://bit.ly/gsgfin-rso-guide-2526
GSG Finance Orientation Video [mandatory to complete before submitting application] https://bit.ly/gsgfin-orientation-2526
GSG Finance Assessment [Mandatory to be able to open the application]: https://bit.ly/gsgfin-rso-assessment-2526
Application Links:
GSG Funding Application (EngageSC): https://bit.ly/gsgfin-rso-fa-2526
Application Deadlines (Calendar of Submissions): http://bit.ly/gsg-fa-deadlines-2526
Application Materials:
Vendor list: https://bit.ly/gsgfin-vendors-2526
Event flyer template: bit.ly/gsgfin-canva-event-template
Constituency Organization Approval Memo: https://bit.ly/gsgfin-co-approval-form
Transportation Waiver Form https://bit.ly/gsgfin-transportmemo-2526
Prize Recipient Form: https://bit.ly/gsgfin-prize-form
Support
| Contact Information | Best Contact For: |
|---|---|
| Elana Simon Education & Access gsgfinea@usc.edu |
|
| Roshni Anand Director of Approvals (UPC) gsgupcfi@usc.edu | Questions about application after submission |
| Tiffany Chapman Director of Approvals (HSC) gsghscfi@usc.edu | Questions about application after submission |
| Jennifer Shyong Director of Finance — Disbursements & Reconciling gsgfindr@usc.edu |
|
| Finance Interns uscgsgfin@gmail.com | Email Finance Interns about payment processing after application approval |
| GSG Vice President of Administration Farbod Amirghasemi gsgvpadm@usc.edu | Email if encountering any issues with Finance Directors |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does GSG funding come from?
The GSG budget is comprised of student programming fees from graduate students—currently $40 per semester per student. The funds are allocated to student-hosted programming and budgeted annually by the Senate.
Who can apply for event funding through GSG?
Any Recognized Student Organization (RSO) that is officially recognized via USC’s Campus Activities Office. Both graduate and undergraduate student organizations are eligible if the funding benefits graduate students. Faculty, staff, or non-student organizations are not eligible.
Are online RSOs eligible for GSG funding?
No. Online students pay a lower programming fee ($20 vs. $40), so online RSOs are not eligible for funding. However, online students may still participate in GSG events, committees, and grants. Online student fees support virtual director stipends. Contact the Virtual Directors of Accessibility (gsgvrax@usc.edu) or Programming (gsgvrpr@usc.edu) for more.
How do I apply for funding?
Complete the Finance Orientation & Assessment, prepare your event details (date, location, vendors, etc.), and submit your application at least 4 weeks before the event per calendar deadlines. Use our online portal and submit receipts within 5 days after the event via the Post-Event Form.
What is the Umbrella Funding Disbursement Program (UFDP)?
UFDP disburses umbrella funds ($16 per enrolled student represented) to eligible Umbrella Organizations each fall. Funds must align with policy and require semester and year-end reporting. Not all administrators are eligible—check with leadership.
How do I know what my umbrella organization is?
Find your umbrella organization here.
What are the steps in the funding process and why does it take so long?
There are three phases: Application & Approval, Processing, and Reconciling.
- We review budgets weekly and account for holidays/breaks in the submission calendar.
- If your event falls late in the semester (e.g., June), it must be prepaid and processed accordingly; events between June 30–Aug 1 are blackout.
- Only approved vendors are accepted; unapproved vendors or incorrect quotes may delay funding.
- We manage risk, fairness, and capacity across all submissions—this contributes to the timeline.
How do vendor quotes and invoices work?
You must attach formal vendor quotes to your application. If unavailable, use a full screenshot of your cart (for eligible vendors like Smart & Final, Amazon, bookstore). Post-event, submit receipts or invoices according to guidelines. See more in Finance Orientation.
What if I miss a deadline or need changes?
Minor changes may be accommodated if communicated early. Missed Post-Event Forms or missing documents can result in probation:
- Blue Probation: No funding access for remainder of the semester (due to missing documents within 5 days).
- Cardinal Probation: No funding access for remainder of the current + next semester (missing within 10 days).
Deadline Calculator
Event date:
Vendor type:
Internal USC vendors onlyExternal vendors or services