College Comparison
Cornell 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
Ithaca, NY
Los Angeles, CA
Total Enrollment
26,793
46,566
Undergrad Enrollment
16,128
20,630
Student-Faculty Ratio
9:1
9:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
8.8%
9.8%
Average GPA
4.00
3.83
SAT Range
1500–1570
1450–1550
ACT Range
33–35
32–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$80
$85
Total Applicants
62,993
82,027
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$81,884
$83,399
Avg Net Price
$32,337
$36,000
Tuition (In-State)
$62,456
$63,468
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$62,456
$63,468
Room & Board
$19,428
$19,931
% Receiving Aid
48.0%
70.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$61,779
$46,897
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
96.0%
93.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
91.0%
84.0%
Retention Rate
98.0%
96.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$104,043
$92,498
More Comparisons
Compare Cornell with...
View Cornell profile →
Compare USC with...
View USC profile →
Explore by Location
Cornell is in Ithaca, NY
USC is in Los Angeles, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Cornell University is $32,337 per year, compared to $36,000 at USC. Cornell University is $3,663 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Cornell University typically score between 1500-1570 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.
Cornell University has a graduation rate of 96%, while USC has a graduation rate of 93%. Cornell University has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Cornell 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 Cornell University, 48% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $61,779. At USC, 70% of students receive aid with an average grant of $46,897.
The median earnings for Cornell University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $104,043, compared to $92,498 for USC graduates. Graduates from Cornell University tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
Cornell University is located in Ithaca, NY in a city: small setting. USC is located in Los Angeles, CA in a city: large setting.

