College Comparison
Santa Clara 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
Santa Clara, CA
Los Angeles, CA
Total Enrollment
9,728
46,566
Undergrad Enrollment
6,577
20,630
Student-Faculty Ratio
11:1
9:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
48.0%
9.8%
Average GPA
3.74
3.83
SAT Range
1350–1490
1450–1550
ACT Range
31–33
32–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$70
$85
Total Applicants
18,970
82,027
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$76,773
$83,399
Avg Net Price
$50,959
$36,000
Tuition (In-State)
$56,880
$63,468
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$56,880
$63,468
Room & Board
$19,893
$19,931
% Receiving Aid
71.0%
70.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$28,368
$46,897
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
90.0%
93.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
85.0%
84.0%
Retention Rate
94.0%
96.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$109,183
$92,498
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Explore by Location
Santa Clara is in Santa Clara, CA
USC is in Los Angeles, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Santa Clara University is $50,959 per year, compared to $36,000 at USC. USC is $14,959 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Santa Clara University typically score between 1350-1490 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.
Santa Clara 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.
Santa Clara University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 11:1, while USC has a ratio of 9:1. USC offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Santa Clara University, 71% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $28,368. At USC, 70% of students receive aid with an average grant of $46,897.
The median earnings for Santa Clara University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $109,183, compared to $92,498 for USC graduates. Graduates from Santa Clara University tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
Santa Clara University is located in Santa Clara, CA in a city: midsize setting. USC is located in Los Angeles, CA in a city: large setting.