College Comparison
Colgate 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
Hamilton, NY
Los Angeles, CA
Total Enrollment
3,211
46,566
Undergrad Enrollment
3,193
20,630
Student-Faculty Ratio
9:1
9:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
13.9%
9.8%
Average GPA
3.79
3.83
SAT Range
1430–1540
1450–1550
ACT Range
33–34
32–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$60
$85
Total Applicants
20,682
82,027
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$81,514
$83,399
Avg Net Price
$29,107
$36,000
Tuition (In-State)
$63,904
$63,468
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$63,904
$63,468
Room & Board
$17,610
$19,931
% Receiving Aid
43.0%
70.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$58,334
$46,897
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
91.0%
93.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
88.0%
84.0%
Retention Rate
93.0%
96.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$85,139
$92,498
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Explore by Location
Colgate is in Hamilton, NY
USC is in Los Angeles, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Colgate University is $29,107 per year, compared to $36,000 at USC. Colgate University is $6,893 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Colgate University typically score between 1430-1540 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.
Colgate University has a graduation rate of 91%, while USC has a graduation rate of 93%. USC has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Colgate University 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 Colgate University, 43% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $58,334. At USC, 70% of students receive aid with an average grant of $46,897.
The median earnings for Colgate University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $85,139, 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.
Colgate University is located in Hamilton, NY in a rural: distant setting. USC is located in Los Angeles, CA in a city: large setting.

