Clemson University vs University of Southern California

Clemson, SC — Los Angeles, CA

Metric
Clemson University
Clemson, SC
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA
Location Clemson, SC Los Angeles, CA
Type Public Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 23,300 20,443
Acceptance Rate 38.3% 9.8%
SAT Average 1,353 1,495
In-State Tuition $15,554 $72,097
Out-of-State Tuition $40,866 $72,097
Avg Net Price $22,253 $32,740
Median Debt at Graduation $21,500 $18,000
4-Year Graduation Rate 87.2% 91.9%
Retention Rate 93.5% 95.9%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $58,311 $74,461
Median Earnings (10 yr) $71,513 $92,498
Loan Repayment Rate 460600.0% 435800.0%

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

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Clemson University
Clemson, SC
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University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Clemson University and University of Southern California compare?
Clemson University (Clemson, SC) has an acceptance rate of 38.3%, in-state tuition of $15,554, and median 10-year earnings of $71,513. 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, Clemson University or University of Southern California?
University of Southern California graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $92,498 vs $71,513. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Clemson University or University of Southern California?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Clemson University is the more affordable option at $22,253 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 87.2%.

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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