University of Southern California vs George Mason University

Los Angeles, CA — Fairfax, VA

Metric
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA
George Mason University
Fairfax, VA
Location Los Angeles, CA Fairfax, VA
Type Private Nonprofit Public
Total Enrollment 20,443 27,752
Acceptance Rate 9.8% 87.5%
SAT Average 1,495 1,274
In-State Tuition $72,097 $14,220
Out-of-State Tuition $72,097 $38,688
Avg Net Price $32,740 $17,915
Median Debt at Graduation $18,000 $19,500
4-Year Graduation Rate 91.9% 68.6%
Retention Rate 95.9% 86.0%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $74,461 $60,536
Median Earnings (10 yr) $92,498 $76,343
Loan Repayment Rate 435800.0% 731900.0%

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

Full Profile
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA
View full college profile →
Full Profile
George Mason University
Fairfax, VA
View full college profile →

Frequently Asked Questions

How do University of Southern California and George Mason University compare?
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. George Mason University (Fairfax, VA) has an acceptance rate of 87.5%, in-state tuition of $14,220, and median 10-year earnings of $76,343.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, University of Southern California or George Mason University?
University of Southern California graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $92,498 vs $76,343. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, University of Southern California or George Mason University?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), George Mason University is the more affordable option at $17,915 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 68.6%.

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