College Comparison
Colby 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
Waterville, ME
Los Angeles, CA
Total Enrollment
2,412
46,566
Undergrad Enrollment
2,412
20,630
Student-Faculty Ratio
9:1
9:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
7.1%
9.8%
Average GPA
3.90
3.83
SAT Range
1460–1550
1450–1550
ACT Range
32–34
32–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$0
$85
Total Applicants
19,187
82,027
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$78,730
$83,399
Avg Net Price
$23,939
$36,000
Tuition (In-State)
$60,840
$63,468
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$60,840
$63,468
Room & Board
$17,890
$19,931
% Receiving Aid
45.0%
70.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$69,201
$46,897
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
87.0%
93.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
82.0%
84.0%
Retention Rate
94.0%
96.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$80,490
$92,498
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Explore by Location
Colby is in Waterville, ME
USC is in Los Angeles, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Colby College is $23,939 per year, compared to $36,000 at USC. Colby College is $12,061 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Colby College typically score between 1460-1550 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.
Colby College has a graduation rate of 87%, while USC has a graduation rate of 93%. USC has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Colby College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 9:1, while USC has a ratio of 9:1. USC offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Colby College, 45% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $69,201. At USC, 70% of students receive aid with an average grant of $46,897.
The median earnings for Colby College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $80,490, 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.
Colby College is located in Waterville, ME in a town: remote setting. USC is located in Los Angeles, CA in a city: large setting.

