College Comparison
Dartmouth 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
Hanover, NH
Los Angeles, CA
Total Enrollment
6,938
46,566
Undergrad Enrollment
4,637
20,630
Student-Faculty Ratio
7:1
9:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
5.4%
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
$85
$85
Total Applicants
31,656
82,027
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$80,436
$83,399
Avg Net Price
$28,619
$36,000
Tuition (In-State)
$60,687
$63,468
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$60,687
$63,468
Room & Board
$19,749
$19,931
% Receiving Aid
47.0%
70.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$67,471
$46,897
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
95.0%
93.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
87.0%
84.0%
Retention Rate
98.0%
96.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$97,434
$92,498
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Explore by Location
Dartmouth is in Hanover, NH
USC is in Los Angeles, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Dartmouth College is $28,619 per year, compared to $36,000 at USC. Dartmouth College is $7,381 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Dartmouth College 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.
Dartmouth College has a graduation rate of 95%, while USC has a graduation rate of 93%. Dartmouth College has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Dartmouth College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 7:1, while USC has a ratio of 9:1. Dartmouth College offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Dartmouth College, 47% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $67,471. At USC, 70% of students receive aid with an average grant of $46,897.
The median earnings for Dartmouth College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $97,434, compared to $92,498 for USC graduates. Graduates from Dartmouth College tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
Dartmouth College is located in Hanover, NH in a town: remote setting. USC is located in Los Angeles, CA in a city: large setting.

