College Comparison
Northwestern 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
Evanston, IL
Los Angeles, CA
Total Enrollment
23,856
46,566
Undergrad Enrollment
9,399
20,630
Student-Faculty Ratio
6:1
9:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
7.7%
9.8%
Average GPA
4.00
3.83
SAT Range
1510–1570
1450–1550
ACT Range
33–35
32–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$75
$85
Total Applicants
49,474
82,027
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$83,517
$83,399
Avg Net Price
$27,143
$36,000
Tuition (In-State)
$62,391
$63,468
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$62,391
$63,468
Room & Board
$21,126
$19,931
% Receiving Aid
53.0%
70.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$64,429
$46,897
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
96.0%
93.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
87.0%
84.0%
Retention Rate
98.0%
96.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$89,363
$92,498
More Comparisons
Compare Northwestern with...
View Northwestern profile →
Compare USC with...
View USC profile →
Explore by Location
Northwestern is in Evanston, IL
USC is in Los Angeles, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Northwestern University is $27,143 per year, compared to $36,000 at USC. Northwestern University is $8,857 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Northwestern University typically score between 1510-1570 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.
Northwestern University has a graduation rate of 96%, while USC has a graduation rate of 93%. Northwestern University has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Northwestern University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 6:1, while USC has a ratio of 9:1. Northwestern University offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Northwestern University, 53% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $64,429. At USC, 70% of students receive aid with an average grant of $46,897.
The median earnings for Northwestern University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $89,363, 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.
Northwestern University is located in Evanston, IL in a city: small setting. USC is located in Los Angeles, CA in a city: large setting.

