Vanguard University of Southern California vs Columbia University in the City of New York

Costa Mesa, CA — New York, NY

Metric
Vanguard University of Southern California
Costa Mesa, CA
Columbia University in the City of New York
New York, NY
Location Costa Mesa, CA New York, NY
Type Private Nonprofit Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 1,933 8,973
Acceptance Rate 62.4% 4.0%
SAT Average 1,553
In-State Tuition $41,700 $71,845
Out-of-State Tuition $41,700 $71,845
Avg Net Price $21,241 $21,590
Median Debt at Graduation $22,000 $21,500
4-Year Graduation Rate 56.3% 95.5%
Retention Rate 70.1% 98.0%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $43,464 $88,535
Median Earnings (10 yr) $59,541 $102,491
Loan Repayment Rate 114600.0% 185800.0%

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

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Vanguard University of Southern California
Costa Mesa, CA
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Columbia University in the City of New York
New York, NY
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Vanguard University of Southern California and Columbia University in the City of New York compare?
Vanguard University of Southern California (Costa Mesa, CA) has an acceptance rate of 62.4%, in-state tuition of $41,700, and median 10-year earnings of $59,541. Columbia University in the City of New York (New York, NY) has an acceptance rate of 4.0%, in-state tuition of $71,845, and median 10-year earnings of $102,491.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Vanguard University of Southern California or Columbia University in the City of New York?
Columbia University in the City of New York graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $102,491 vs $59,541. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Vanguard University of Southern California or Columbia University in the City of New York?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Vanguard University of Southern California is the more affordable option at $21,241 per year versus $21,590.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Columbia University in the City of New York has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 95.5% vs 56.3%.

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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