San Jose State University vs University of Southern California

San Jose, CA — Los Angeles, CA

Metric
San Jose State University
San Jose, CA
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA
Location San Jose, CA Los Angeles, CA
Type Public Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 27,601 20,443
Acceptance Rate 84.6% 9.8%
SAT Average 1,495
In-State Tuition $8,410 $72,097
Out-of-State Tuition $21,010 $72,097
Avg Net Price $13,760 $32,740
Median Debt at Graduation $15,000 $18,000
4-Year Graduation Rate 66.8% 91.9%
Retention Rate 86.8% 95.9%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $62,448 $74,461
Median Earnings (10 yr) $78,988 $92,498
Loan Repayment Rate 696800.0% 435800.0%

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

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San Jose State University
San Jose, CA
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University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do San Jose State University and University of Southern California compare?
San Jose State University (San Jose, CA) has an acceptance rate of 84.6%, in-state tuition of $8,410, and median 10-year earnings of $78,988. 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, San Jose State University or University of Southern California?
University of Southern California graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $92,498 vs $78,988. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, San Jose State University or University of Southern California?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), San Jose State University is the more affordable option at $13,760 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 66.8%.

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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