College Comparison
Claremont McKenna 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
Claremont, CA
Los Angeles, CA
Total Enrollment
1,393
46,566
Undergrad Enrollment
1,390
20,630
Student-Faculty Ratio
8:1
9:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
9.6%
9.8%
Average GPA
3.95
3.83
SAT Range
1470–1560
1450–1550
ACT Range
33–35
32–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$70
$85
Total Applicants
6,529
82,027
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$81,310
$83,399
Avg Net Price
$27,384
$36,000
Tuition (In-State)
$60,480
$63,468
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$60,480
$63,468
Room & Board
$20,830
$19,931
% Receiving Aid
43.0%
70.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$52,605
$46,897
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
93.0%
93.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
81.0%
84.0%
Retention Rate
98.0%
96.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$104,736
$92,498
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Explore by Location
Claremont McKenna is in Claremont, CA
USC is in Los Angeles, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Claremont McKenna College is $27,384 per year, compared to $36,000 at USC. Claremont McKenna College is $8,616 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Claremont McKenna College typically score between 1470-1560 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.
Claremont McKenna College has a graduation rate of 93%, while USC has a graduation rate of 93%. USC has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Claremont McKenna College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 8:1, while USC has a ratio of 9:1. Claremont McKenna College offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Claremont McKenna College, 43% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $52,605. At USC, 70% of students receive aid with an average grant of $46,897.
The median earnings for Claremont McKenna College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $104,736, compared to $92,498 for USC graduates. Graduates from Claremont McKenna College tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
Claremont McKenna College is located in Claremont, CA in a suburb: large setting. USC is located in Los Angeles, CA in a city: large setting.