College Comparison
Smith 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
Northampton, MA
Los Angeles, CA
Total Enrollment
2,857
46,566
Undergrad Enrollment
2,549
20,630
Student-Faculty Ratio
8:1
9:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
21.0%
9.8%
Average GPA
3.90
3.83
SAT Range
1420–1540
1450–1550
ACT Range
32–35
32–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$0
$85
Total Applicants
8,666
82,027
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$81,080
$83,399
Avg Net Price
$26,181
$36,000
Tuition (In-State)
$58,480
$63,468
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$58,480
$63,468
Room & Board
$22,600
$19,931
% Receiving Aid
67.0%
70.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$58,725
$46,897
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
91.0%
93.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
86.0%
84.0%
Retention Rate
94.0%
96.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$64,027
$92,498
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Explore by Location
Smith is in Northampton, MA
USC is in Los Angeles, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Smith College is $26,181 per year, compared to $36,000 at USC. Smith College is $9,819 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Smith College typically score between 1420-1540 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.
Smith College has a graduation rate of 91%, while USC has a graduation rate of 93%. USC has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Smith College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 8:1, while USC has a ratio of 9:1. Smith College offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Smith College, 67% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $58,725. At USC, 70% of students receive aid with an average grant of $46,897.
The median earnings for Smith College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $64,027, 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.
Smith College is located in Northampton, MA in a city: small setting. USC is located in Los Angeles, CA in a city: large setting.

