College Comparison
Carleton 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
Northfield, MN
Los Angeles, CA
Total Enrollment
2,128
46,566
Undergrad Enrollment
2,128
20,630
Student-Faculty Ratio
8:1
9:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
20.4%
9.8%
Average GPA
4.00
3.83
SAT Range
1450–1560
1450–1550
ACT Range
32–34
32–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$0
$85
Total Applicants
7,133
82,027
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$79,830
$83,399
Avg Net Price
$27,320
$36,000
Tuition (In-State)
$62,244
$63,468
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$62,244
$63,468
Room & Board
$17,586
$19,931
% Receiving Aid
59.0%
70.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$56,846
$46,897
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
92.0%
93.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
88.0%
84.0%
Retention Rate
96.0%
96.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$75,525
$92,498
More Comparisons
Compare Carleton with...
View Carleton profile →
Compare USC with...
View USC profile →
Explore by Location
Carleton is in Northfield, MN
USC is in Los Angeles, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Carleton College is $27,320 per year, compared to $36,000 at USC. Carleton College is $8,680 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Carleton College typically score between 1450-1560 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.
Carleton College has a graduation rate of 92%, while USC has a graduation rate of 93%. USC has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Carleton College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 8:1, while USC has a ratio of 9:1. Carleton College offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Carleton College, 59% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $56,846. At USC, 70% of students receive aid with an average grant of $46,897.
The median earnings for Carleton College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $75,525, 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.
Carleton College is located in Northfield, MN in a town: distant setting. USC is located in Los Angeles, CA in a city: large setting.

