College Comparison
Northeastern 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
Boston, MA
Los Angeles, CA
Total Enrollment
32,553
46,566
Undergrad Enrollment
17,432
20,630
Student-Faculty Ratio
16:1
9:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
5.2%
9.8%
Average GPA
4.00
3.83
SAT Range
1440–1540
1450–1550
ACT Range
33–35
32–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$75
$85
Total Applicants
98,425
82,027
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$78,680
$83,399
Avg Net Price
$32,116
$36,000
Tuition (In-State)
$59,100
$63,468
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$59,100
$63,468
Room & Board
$19,580
$19,931
% Receiving Aid
66.0%
70.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$50,421
$46,897
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
90.0%
93.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
35.0%
84.0%
Retention Rate
97.0%
96.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$92,538
$92,498
More Comparisons
Compare Northeastern with...
View Northeastern profile →
Compare USC with...
View USC profile →
Explore by Location
Northeastern is in Boston, MA
USC is in Los Angeles, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Northeastern University is $32,116 per year, compared to $36,000 at USC. Northeastern University is $3,884 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Northeastern University typically score between 1440-1540 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.
Northeastern University has a graduation rate of 90%, while USC has a graduation rate of 93%. USC has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Northeastern University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 16:1, while USC has a ratio of 9:1. USC offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Northeastern University, 66% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $50,421. At USC, 70% of students receive aid with an average grant of $46,897.
The median earnings for Northeastern University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $92,538, compared to $92,498 for USC graduates. Graduates from Northeastern University tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
Northeastern University is located in Boston, MA in a city: large setting. USC is located in Los Angeles, CA in a city: large setting.

