University of South Carolina-Columbia vs Lehigh University

Columbia, SC — Bethlehem, PA

Metric
University of South Carolina-Columbia
Columbia, SC
Lehigh University
Bethlehem, PA
Location Columbia, SC Bethlehem, PA
Type Public Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 29,820 5,898
Acceptance Rate 60.2% 25.9%
SAT Average 1,297 1,440
In-State Tuition $12,688 $64,980
Out-of-State Tuition $35,972 $64,980
Avg Net Price $22,811 $36,931
Median Debt at Graduation $21,500 $21,960
4-Year Graduation Rate 78.3% 88.5%
Retention Rate 92.2% 93.7%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $50,621 $88,810
Median Earnings (10 yr) $62,177 $105,584
Loan Repayment Rate 751700.0% 126500.0%

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

Full Profile
University of South Carolina-Columbia
Columbia, SC
View full college profile →
Full Profile
Lehigh University
Bethlehem, PA
View full college profile →

Frequently Asked Questions

How do University of South Carolina-Columbia and Lehigh 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. Lehigh University (Bethlehem, PA) has an acceptance rate of 25.9%, in-state tuition of $64,980, and median 10-year earnings of $105,584.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, University of South Carolina-Columbia or Lehigh University?
Lehigh University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $105,584 vs $62,177. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, University of South Carolina-Columbia or Lehigh 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 $36,931.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Lehigh University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 88.5% vs 78.3%.

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