College Comparison
Swarthmore 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
Swarthmore, PA
Los Angeles, CA
Total Enrollment
1,623
46,566
Undergrad Enrollment
1,623
20,630
Student-Faculty Ratio
7:1
9:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
7.5%
9.8%
Average GPA
3.93
3.83
SAT Range
1490–1560
1450–1550
ACT Range
33–35
32–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$60
$85
Total Applicants
13,065
82,027
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$79,236
$83,399
Avg Net Price
$18,686
$36,000
Tuition (In-State)
$58,928
$63,468
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$58,928
$63,468
Room & Board
$20,308
$19,931
% Receiving Aid
57.0%
70.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$61,634
$46,897
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
94.0%
93.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
88.0%
84.0%
Retention Rate
94.0%
96.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$80,257
$92,498
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Explore by Location
Swarthmore is in Swarthmore, PA
USC is in Los Angeles, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Swarthmore College is $18,686 per year, compared to $36,000 at USC. Swarthmore College is $17,314 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Swarthmore 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.
Swarthmore College has a graduation rate of 94%, while USC has a graduation rate of 93%. Swarthmore College has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Swarthmore College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 7:1, while USC has a ratio of 9:1. Swarthmore College offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Swarthmore College, 57% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $61,634. At USC, 70% of students receive aid with an average grant of $46,897.
The median earnings for Swarthmore College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $80,257, 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.
Swarthmore College is located in Swarthmore, PA in a suburb: large setting. USC is located in Los Angeles, CA in a city: large setting.

