College Comparison
Boston University 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
Boston, MA
Los Angeles, CA
Total Enrollment
37,737
46,566
Undergrad Enrollment
18,805
20,630
Student-Faculty Ratio
10:1
9:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
11.1%
9.8%
Average GPA
3.79
3.83
SAT Range
1420–1530
1450–1550
ACT Range
32–34
32–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$80
$85
Total Applicants
78,769
82,027
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$80,070
$83,399
Avg Net Price
$26,996
$36,000
Tuition (In-State)
$61,050
$63,468
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$61,050
$63,468
Room & Board
$19,020
$19,931
% Receiving Aid
49.0%
70.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$61,848
$46,897
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
88.0%
93.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
83.0%
84.0%
Retention Rate
95.0%
96.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$83,238
$92,498
More Comparisons
Compare Boston with...
View Boston profile →
Compare USC with...
View USC profile →
Explore by Location
Boston is in Boston, MA
USC is in Los Angeles, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Boston University is $26,996 per year, compared to $36,000 at USC. Boston University is $9,004 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Boston University typically score between 1420-1530 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.
Boston University has a graduation rate of 88%, while USC has a graduation rate of 93%. USC has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Boston University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 10:1, while USC has a ratio of 9:1. USC offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Boston University, 49% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $61,848. At USC, 70% of students receive aid with an average grant of $46,897.
The median earnings for Boston University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $83,238, 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.
Boston University is located in Boston, MA in a city: large setting. USC is located in Los Angeles, CA in a city: large setting.

