College Comparison
Harvard 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
Cambridge, MA
Los Angeles, CA
Total Enrollment
30,259
46,566
Undergrad Enrollment
8,844
20,630
Student-Faculty Ratio
7:1
9:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
3.6%
9.8%
Average GPA
4.00
3.83
SAT Range
1510–1580
1450–1550
ACT Range
34–36
32–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$85
$85
Total Applicants
54,008
82,027
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$73,849
$83,399
Avg Net Price
$16,816
$36,000
Tuition (In-State)
$52,659
$63,468
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$52,659
$63,468
Room & Board
$21,190
$19,931
% Receiving Aid
56.0%
70.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$68,015
$46,897
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
97.0%
93.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
87.0%
84.0%
Retention Rate
98.0%
96.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$101,817
$92,498
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Explore by Location
Harvard is in Cambridge, MA
USC is in Los Angeles, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Harvard University is $16,816 per year, compared to $36,000 at USC. Harvard University is $19,184 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Harvard University typically score between 1510-1580 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.
Harvard University has a graduation rate of 97%, while USC has a graduation rate of 93%. Harvard University has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Harvard University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 7:1, while USC has a ratio of 9:1. Harvard University offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Harvard University, 56% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $68,015. At USC, 70% of students receive aid with an average grant of $46,897.
The median earnings for Harvard University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $101,817, compared to $92,498 for USC graduates. Graduates from Harvard University tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
Harvard University is located in Cambridge, MA in a city: midsize setting. USC is located in Los Angeles, CA in a city: large setting.

