University of Southern California vs Northwestern University
Los Angeles, CA — Evanston, IL
| Metric | University of Southern California Los Angeles, CA | Northwestern University Evanston, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Los Angeles, CA | Evanston, IL |
| Type | Private Nonprofit | Private Nonprofit |
| Total Enrollment | 20,443 | 9,201 |
| Acceptance Rate | 9.8% | 7.7% |
| SAT Average | 1,495 | 1,533 |
| In-State Tuition | $72,097 | $68,322 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $72,097 | $68,322 |
| Avg Net Price | $32,740 | $29,167 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $18,000 | $15,000 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 91.9% | 95.5% |
| Retention Rate | 95.9% | 98.1% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $74,461 | $76,844 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $92,498 | $89,363 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 435800.0% | 204100.0% |
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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Northwestern University
Evanston, IL
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do University of Southern California and Northwestern 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. Northwestern University (Evanston, IL) has an acceptance rate of 7.7%, in-state tuition of $68,322, and median 10-year earnings of $89,363.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, University of Southern California or Northwestern University?▼
University of Southern California graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $92,498 vs $89,363. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, University of Southern California or Northwestern University?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Northwestern University is the more affordable option at $29,167 per year versus $32,740.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
Northwestern University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 95.5% 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