Carleton College vs University of Southern California

Northfield, MN — Los Angeles, CA

Metric
Carleton College
Northfield, MN
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA
Location Northfield, MN Los Angeles, CA
Type Private Nonprofit Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 2,086 20,443
Acceptance Rate 20.4% 9.8%
SAT Average 1,517 1,495
In-State Tuition $68,892 $72,097
Out-of-State Tuition $68,892 $72,097
Avg Net Price $25,407 $32,740
Median Debt at Graduation $16,750 $18,000
4-Year Graduation Rate 90.4% 91.9%
Retention Rate 96.5% 95.9%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $53,989 $74,461
Median Earnings (10 yr) $75,525 $92,498
Loan Repayment Rate 27400.0% 435800.0%

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

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Carleton College
Northfield, MN
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University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Carleton College and University of Southern California compare?
Carleton College (Northfield, MN) has an acceptance rate of 20.4%, in-state tuition of $68,892, and median 10-year earnings of $75,525. 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, Carleton College or University of Southern California?
University of Southern California graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $92,498 vs $75,525. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Carleton College or University of Southern California?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Carleton College is the more affordable option at $25,407 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 90.4%.

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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