University of California-Santa Cruz vs University of Southern California
Santa Cruz, CA — Los Angeles, CA
| Metric | University of California-Santa Cruz Santa Cruz, CA | University of Southern California Los Angeles, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Santa Cruz, CA | Los Angeles, CA |
| Type | Public | Private Nonprofit |
| Total Enrollment | 17,940 | 20,443 |
| Acceptance Rate | 65.8% | 9.8% |
| SAT Average | — | 1,495 |
| In-State Tuition | $16,005 | $72,097 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $50,205 | $72,097 |
| Avg Net Price | $17,890 | $32,740 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $16,666 | $18,000 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 74.8% | 91.9% |
| Retention Rate | 87.9% | 95.9% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $49,716 | $74,461 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $68,396 | $92,498 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 552700.0% | 435800.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Full Profile
University of California-Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz, CA
View full college profile →
Full Profile
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA
View full college profile →
Frequently Asked Questions
How do University of California-Santa Cruz and University of Southern California compare?▼
University of California-Santa Cruz (Santa Cruz, CA) has an acceptance rate of 65.8%, in-state tuition of $16,005, and median 10-year earnings of $68,396. 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, University of California-Santa Cruz or University of Southern California?▼
University of Southern California graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $92,498 vs $68,396. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, University of California-Santa Cruz or University of Southern California?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), University of California-Santa Cruz is the more affordable option at $17,890 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 74.8%.
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