University of Southern California vs University of Colorado Boulder

Los Angeles, CA — Boulder, CO

Metric
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA
University of Colorado Boulder
Boulder, CO
Location Los Angeles, CA Boulder, CO
Type Private Nonprofit Public
Total Enrollment 20,443 31,939
Acceptance Rate 9.8% 78.1%
SAT Average 1,495 1,357
In-State Tuition $72,097 $15,666
Out-of-State Tuition $72,097 $44,918
Avg Net Price $32,740 $25,346
Median Debt at Graduation $18,000 $19,500
4-Year Graduation Rate 91.9% 74.6%
Retention Rate 95.9% 90.1%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $74,461 $54,939
Median Earnings (10 yr) $92,498 $69,738
Loan Repayment Rate 435800.0% 691700.0%

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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University of Colorado Boulder
Boulder, CO
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do University of Southern California and University of Colorado Boulder 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. University of Colorado Boulder (Boulder, CO) has an acceptance rate of 78.1%, in-state tuition of $15,666, and median 10-year earnings of $69,738.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, University of Southern California or University of Colorado Boulder?
University of Southern California graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $92,498 vs $69,738. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, University of Southern California or University of Colorado Boulder?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), University of Colorado Boulder is the more affordable option at $25,346 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 74.6%.

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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