Cornell University vs University of Southern California
Ithaca, NY — Los Angeles, CA
| Metric | Cornell University Ithaca, NY | University of Southern California Los Angeles, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Ithaca, NY | Los Angeles, CA |
| Type | Private Nonprofit | Private Nonprofit |
| Total Enrollment | 15,995 | 20,443 |
| Acceptance Rate | 8.8% | 9.8% |
| SAT Average | 1,535 | 1,495 |
| In-State Tuition | $69,314 | $72,097 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $69,314 | $72,097 |
| Avg Net Price | $28,690 | $32,740 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $14,000 | $18,000 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 95.3% | 91.9% |
| Retention Rate | 98.4% | 95.9% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $87,830 | $74,461 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $104,043 | $92,498 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 313700.0% | 435800.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Full Profile
Cornell University
Ithaca, NY
View full college profile →
Full Profile
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA
View full college profile →
Frequently Asked Questions
How do Cornell University and University of Southern California compare?▼
Cornell University (Ithaca, NY) has an acceptance rate of 8.8%, in-state tuition of $69,314, and median 10-year earnings of $104,043. 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, Cornell University or University of Southern California?▼
Cornell University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $104,043 vs $92,498. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Cornell University or University of Southern California?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Cornell University is the more affordable option at $28,690 per year versus $32,740.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
Cornell University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 95.3% vs 91.9%.
More Comparisons
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