College Comparison
Southern Methodist 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
Dallas, TX
Los Angeles, CA
Total Enrollment
12,116
46,566
Undergrad Enrollment
7,285
20,630
Student-Faculty Ratio
11:1
9:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
63.4%
9.8%
Average GPA
3.66
3.83
SAT Range
1340–1490
1450–1550
ACT Range
30–34
32–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$60
$85
Total Applicants
15,245
82,027
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$74,076
$83,399
Avg Net Price
$41,778
$36,000
Tuition (In-State)
$55,012
$63,468
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$55,012
$63,468
Room & Board
$19,064
$19,931
% Receiving Aid
67.0%
70.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$37,520
$46,897
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
82.0%
93.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
75.0%
84.0%
Retention Rate
91.0%
96.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$78,354
$92,498
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Explore by Location
Southern Methodist is in Dallas, TX
USC is in Los Angeles, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Southern Methodist University is $41,778 per year, compared to $36,000 at USC. USC is $5,778 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Southern Methodist University typically score between 1340-1490 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.
Southern Methodist University has a graduation rate of 82%, while USC has a graduation rate of 93%. USC has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Southern Methodist 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 Southern Methodist University, 67% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $37,520. At USC, 70% of students receive aid with an average grant of $46,897.
The median earnings for Southern Methodist University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $78,354, 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.
Southern Methodist University is located in Dallas, TX in a suburb: large setting. USC is located in Los Angeles, CA in a city: large setting.

