California State University-Fresno vs University of Southern California

Fresno, CA — Los Angeles, CA

Metric
California State University-Fresno
Fresno, CA
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA
Location Fresno, CA Los Angeles, CA
Type Public Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 21,605 20,443
Acceptance Rate 95.3% 9.8%
SAT Average 1,495
In-State Tuition $7,350 $72,097
Out-of-State Tuition $19,950 $72,097
Avg Net Price $7,000 $32,740
Median Debt at Graduation $14,505 $18,000
4-Year Graduation Rate 55.9% 91.9%
Retention Rate 81.6% 95.9%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $44,012 $74,461
Median Earnings (10 yr) $61,244 $92,498
Loan Repayment Rate 587900.0% 435800.0%

Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.

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California State University-Fresno
Fresno, CA
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University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do California State University-Fresno and University of Southern California compare?
California State University-Fresno (Fresno, CA) has an acceptance rate of 95.3%, in-state tuition of $7,350, and median 10-year earnings of $61,244. University of Southern California (Los Angeles, CA) has an acceptance rate of 9.8%, in-state tuition of $72,097, and median 10-year earnings of $92,498.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, California State University-Fresno or University of Southern California?
University of Southern California graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $92,498 vs $61,244. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, California State University-Fresno or University of Southern California?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), California State University-Fresno is the more affordable option at $7,000 per year versus $32,740.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
University of Southern California has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 91.9% vs 55.9%.

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All data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. PlainCollege is not affiliated with any government agency.

Related

Source: U.S. Department of Education — College Scorecard College Scorecard institution outcomes (earnings, completion, debt) · 2025