College Comparison
Grinnell 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
Grinnell, IA
Los Angeles, CA
Total Enrollment
1,788
46,566
Undergrad Enrollment
1,788
20,630
Student-Faculty Ratio
9:1
9:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
14.5%
9.8%
Average GPA
3.89
3.83
SAT Range
1410–1540
1450–1550
ACT Range
31–34
32–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$0
$85
Total Applicants
9,758
82,027
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$77,830
$83,399
Avg Net Price
$15,608
$36,000
Tuition (In-State)
$60,988
$63,468
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$60,988
$63,468
Room & Board
$16,842
$19,931
% Receiving Aid
94.0%
70.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$49,077
$46,897
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
89.0%
93.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
83.0%
84.0%
Retention Rate
93.0%
96.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$62,830
$92,498
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Explore by Location
Grinnell is in Grinnell, IA
USC is in Los Angeles, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Grinnell College is $15,608 per year, compared to $36,000 at USC. Grinnell College is $20,392 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Grinnell College typically score between 1410-1540 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.
Grinnell College has a graduation rate of 89%, while USC has a graduation rate of 93%. USC has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Grinnell 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 Grinnell College, 94% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $49,077. At USC, 70% of students receive aid with an average grant of $46,897.
The median earnings for Grinnell College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $62,830, 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.
Grinnell College is located in Grinnell, IA in a town: remote setting. USC is located in Los Angeles, CA in a city: large setting.

