University of South Carolina-Columbia vs Cornell University
Columbia, SC — Ithaca, NY
| Metric | University of South Carolina-Columbia Columbia, SC | Cornell University Ithaca, NY |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Columbia, SC | Ithaca, NY |
| Type | Public | Private Nonprofit |
| Total Enrollment | 29,820 | 15,995 |
| Acceptance Rate | 60.2% | 8.8% |
| SAT Average | 1,297 | 1,535 |
| In-State Tuition | $12,688 | $69,314 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $35,972 | $69,314 |
| Avg Net Price | $22,811 | $28,690 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $21,500 | $14,000 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 78.3% | 95.3% |
| Retention Rate | 92.2% | 98.4% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $50,621 | $87,830 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $62,177 | $104,043 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 751700.0% | 313700.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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University of South Carolina-Columbia
Columbia, SC
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Cornell University
Ithaca, NY
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do University of South Carolina-Columbia and Cornell University compare?▼
University of South Carolina-Columbia (Columbia, SC) has an acceptance rate of 60.2%, in-state tuition of $12,688, and median 10-year earnings of $62,177. Cornell University (Ithaca, NY) has an acceptance rate of 8.8%, in-state tuition of $69,314, and median 10-year earnings of $104,043.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, University of South Carolina-Columbia or Cornell University?▼
Cornell University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $104,043 vs $62,177. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, University of South Carolina-Columbia or Cornell University?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), University of South Carolina-Columbia is the more affordable option at $22,811 per year versus $28,690.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
Cornell University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 95.3% vs 78.3%.
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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