College Comparison
Rice 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
Houston, TX
Los Angeles, CA
Total Enrollment
8,961
46,566
Undergrad Enrollment
4,789
20,630
Student-Faculty Ratio
6:1
9:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
8.0%
9.8%
Average GPA
3.96
3.83
SAT Range
1510–1570
1450–1550
ACT Range
34–35
32–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$75
$85
Total Applicants
32,473
82,027
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$72,200
$83,399
Avg Net Price
$12,640
$36,000
Tuition (In-State)
$54,100
$63,468
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$54,100
$63,468
Room & Board
$18,100
$19,931
% Receiving Aid
56.0%
70.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$56,199
$46,897
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
93.0%
93.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
88.0%
84.0%
Retention Rate
97.0%
96.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$89,718
$92,498
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Explore by Location
Rice is in Houston, TX
USC is in Los Angeles, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Rice University is $12,640 per year, compared to $36,000 at USC. Rice University is $23,360 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Rice 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.
Rice University has a graduation rate of 93%, while USC has a graduation rate of 93%. USC has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Rice University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 6:1, while USC has a ratio of 9:1. Rice University offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Rice University, 56% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $56,199. At USC, 70% of students receive aid with an average grant of $46,897.
The median earnings for Rice University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $89,718, 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.
Rice University is located in Houston, TX in a city: large setting. USC is located in Los Angeles, CA in a city: large setting.

