Northwestern University vs University of Southern California
Evanston, IL — Los Angeles, CA
| Metric | Northwestern University Evanston, IL | University of Southern California Los Angeles, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Evanston, IL | Los Angeles, CA |
| Type | Private Nonprofit | Private Nonprofit |
| Total Enrollment | 9,201 | 20,443 |
| Acceptance Rate | 7.7% | 9.8% |
| SAT Average | 1,533 | 1,495 |
| In-State Tuition | $68,322 | $72,097 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $68,322 | $72,097 |
| Avg Net Price | $29,167 | $32,740 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $15,000 | $18,000 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 95.5% | 91.9% |
| Retention Rate | 98.1% | 95.9% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $76,844 | $74,461 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $89,363 | $92,498 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 204100.0% | 435800.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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Northwestern University
Evanston, IL
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University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do Northwestern University and University of Southern California compare?▼
Northwestern University (Evanston, IL) has an acceptance rate of 7.7%, in-state tuition of $68,322, and median 10-year earnings of $89,363. 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, Northwestern University or University of Southern California?▼
University of Southern California graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $92,498 vs $89,363. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Northwestern University or University of Southern California?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Northwestern University is the more affordable option at $29,167 per year versus $32,740.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
Northwestern University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 95.5% 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