University of South Carolina-Columbia vs University of Southern California

Columbia, SC — Los Angeles, CA

Metric
University of South Carolina-Columbia
Columbia, SC
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA
Location Columbia, SC Los Angeles, CA
Type Public Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 29,820 20,443
Acceptance Rate 60.2% 9.8%
SAT Average 1,297 1,495
In-State Tuition $12,688 $72,097
Out-of-State Tuition $35,972 $72,097
Avg Net Price $22,811 $32,740
Median Debt at Graduation $21,500 $18,000
4-Year Graduation Rate 78.3% 91.9%
Retention Rate 92.2% 95.9%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $50,621 $74,461
Median Earnings (10 yr) $62,177 $92,498
Loan Repayment Rate 751700.0% 435800.0%

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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University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do University of South Carolina-Columbia and University of Southern California 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. 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 South Carolina-Columbia or University of Southern California?
University of Southern California graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $92,498 vs $62,177. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, University of South Carolina-Columbia or University of Southern California?
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 $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 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