University of Southern California vs Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Los Angeles, CA — Cambridge, MA

Metric
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Cambridge, MA
Location Los Angeles, CA Cambridge, MA
Type Private Nonprofit Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 20,443 4,535
Acceptance Rate 9.8% 4.5%
SAT Average 1,495 1,560
In-State Tuition $72,097 $62,396
Out-of-State Tuition $72,097 $62,396
Avg Net Price $32,740 $20,111
Median Debt at Graduation $18,000 $14,768
4-Year Graduation Rate 91.9% 96.2%
Retention Rate 95.9% 99.1%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $74,461 $131,633
Median Earnings (10 yr) $92,498 $143,372
Loan Repayment Rate 435800.0% 58700.0%

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

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University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA
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Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Cambridge, MA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do University of Southern California and Massachusetts Institute of Technology 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. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (Cambridge, MA) has an acceptance rate of 4.5%, in-state tuition of $62,396, and median 10-year earnings of $143,372.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, University of Southern California or Massachusetts Institute of Technology?
Massachusetts Institute of Technology graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $143,372 vs $92,498. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, University of Southern California or Massachusetts Institute of Technology?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Massachusetts Institute of Technology is the more affordable option at $20,111 per year versus $32,740.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Massachusetts Institute of Technology has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 96.2% vs 91.9%.

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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