College Comparison
Amherst College vs University of Southern California
Compare acceptance rates, costs, test scores, graduation rates, and more to find your best fit.
At a Glance
Type
Private
Private
Location
Amherst, MA
Los Angeles, CA
Total Enrollment
1,914
46,566
Undergrad Enrollment
1,914
20,630
Student-Faculty Ratio
6:1
9:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
9.0%
9.8%
Average GPA
3.90
3.83
SAT Range
1490–1580
1450–1550
ACT Range
33–35
32–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$65
$85
Total Applicants
13,743
82,027
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$81,890
$83,399
Avg Net Price
$18,246
$36,000
Tuition (In-State)
$63,500
$63,468
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$63,500
$63,468
Room & Board
$18,390
$19,931
% Receiving Aid
59.0%
70.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$68,591
$46,897
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
94.0%
93.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
88.0%
84.0%
Retention Rate
97.0%
96.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$77,644
$92,498
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Explore by Location
Amherst is in Amherst, MA
USC is in Los Angeles, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Amherst College is $18,246 per year, compared to $36,000 at USC. Amherst College is $17,754 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Amherst College typically score between 1490-1580 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At USC, the typical SAT range is 1450-1550. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Amherst College has a graduation rate of 94%, while USC has a graduation rate of 93%. Amherst College has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Amherst College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 6:1, while USC has a ratio of 9:1. Amherst College offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Amherst College, 59% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $68,591. At USC, 70% of students receive aid with an average grant of $46,897.
The median earnings for Amherst College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $77,644, compared to $92,498 for USC graduates. Graduates from USC tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
Amherst College is located in Amherst, MA in a city: small setting. USC is located in Los Angeles, CA in a city: large setting.

