Purdue University-Main Campus vs University of Southern California

West Lafayette, IN — Los Angeles, CA

Metric
Purdue University-Main Campus
West Lafayette, IN
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA
Location West Lafayette, IN Los Angeles, CA
Type Public Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 44,503 20,443
Acceptance Rate 49.9% 9.8%
SAT Average 1,364 1,495
In-State Tuition $9,992 $72,097
Out-of-State Tuition $28,794 $72,097
Avg Net Price $14,600 $32,740
Median Debt at Graduation $19,500 $18,000
4-Year Graduation Rate 83.1% 91.9%
Retention Rate 92.7% 95.9%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $60,838 $74,461
Median Earnings (10 yr) $72,424 $92,498
Loan Repayment Rate 887400.0% 435800.0%

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

Full Profile
Purdue University-Main Campus
West Lafayette, IN
View full college profile →
Full Profile
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA
View full college profile →

Frequently Asked Questions

How do Purdue University-Main Campus and University of Southern California compare?
Purdue University-Main Campus (West Lafayette, IN) has an acceptance rate of 49.9%, in-state tuition of $9,992, and median 10-year earnings of $72,424. 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, Purdue University-Main Campus or University of Southern California?
University of Southern California graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $92,498 vs $72,424. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Purdue University-Main Campus or University of Southern California?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Purdue University-Main Campus is the more affordable option at $14,600 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 83.1%.

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