Massachusetts Institute of Technology vs University of Southern California

Cambridge, MA — Los Angeles, CA

Metric
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Cambridge, MA
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA
Location Cambridge, MA Los Angeles, CA
Type Private Nonprofit Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 4,535 20,443
Acceptance Rate 4.5% 9.8%
SAT Average 1,560 1,495
In-State Tuition $62,396 $72,097
Out-of-State Tuition $62,396 $72,097
Avg Net Price $20,111 $32,740
Median Debt at Graduation $14,768 $18,000
4-Year Graduation Rate 96.2% 91.9%
Retention Rate 99.1% 95.9%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $131,633 $74,461
Median Earnings (10 yr) $143,372 $92,498
Loan Repayment Rate 58700.0% 435800.0%

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

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Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Cambridge, MA
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University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Massachusetts Institute of Technology and University of Southern California compare?
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (Cambridge, MA) has an acceptance rate of 4.5%, in-state tuition of $62,396, and median 10-year earnings of $143,372. 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, Massachusetts Institute of Technology or University of Southern California?
Massachusetts Institute of Technology graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $143,372 vs $92,498. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Massachusetts Institute of Technology or University of Southern California?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Massachusetts Institute of Technology is the more affordable option at $20,111 per year versus $32,740.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Massachusetts Institute of Technology has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 96.2% vs 91.9%.

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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