College Comparison
Pomona 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
Claremont, CA
Los Angeles, CA
Total Enrollment
1,700
46,566
Undergrad Enrollment
1,700
20,630
Student-Faculty Ratio
7:1
9:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
7.1%
9.8%
Average GPA
3.95
3.83
SAT Range
1490–1560
1450–1550
ACT Range
33–35
32–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$80
$85
Total Applicants
12,249
82,027
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$80,212
$83,399
Avg Net Price
$19,424
$36,000
Tuition (In-State)
$58,818
$63,468
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$58,818
$63,468
Room & Board
$21,394
$19,931
% Receiving Aid
59.0%
70.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$65,362
$46,897
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
94.0%
93.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
89.0%
84.0%
Retention Rate
98.0%
96.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$77,779
$92,498
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Explore by Location
Pomona is in Claremont, CA
USC is in Los Angeles, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Pomona College is $19,424 per year, compared to $36,000 at USC. Pomona College is $16,576 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Pomona College typically score between 1490-1560 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.
Pomona College has a graduation rate of 94%, while USC has a graduation rate of 93%. Pomona College has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Pomona College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 7:1, while USC has a ratio of 9:1. Pomona College offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Pomona College, 59% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $65,362. At USC, 70% of students receive aid with an average grant of $46,897.
The median earnings for Pomona College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $77,779, 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.
Pomona College is located in Claremont, CA in a suburb: large setting. USC is located in Los Angeles, CA in a city: large setting.

