College Comparison
University of Chicago 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
Chicago, IL
Los Angeles, CA
Total Enrollment
18,566
46,566
Undergrad Enrollment
7,598
20,630
Student-Faculty Ratio
5:1
9:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
4.5%
9.8%
Average GPA
4.00
3.83
SAT Range
1510–1580
1450–1550
ACT Range
34–35
32–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$75
$85
Total Applicants
43,612
82,027
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$81,288
$83,399
Avg Net Price
$18,967
$36,000
Tuition (In-State)
$61,179
$63,468
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$61,179
$63,468
Room & Board
$20,109
$19,931
% Receiving Aid
47.0%
70.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$62,300
$46,897
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
96.0%
93.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
91.0%
84.0%
Retention Rate
99.0%
96.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$91,885
$92,498
More Comparisons
Compare Chicago with...
View Chicago profile →
Compare USC with...
View USC profile →
Explore by Location
Chicago is in Chicago, IL
USC is in Los Angeles, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at University of Chicago is $18,967 per year, compared to $36,000 at USC. University of Chicago is $17,033 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at University of Chicago typically score between 1510-1580 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.
University of Chicago has a graduation rate of 96%, while USC has a graduation rate of 93%. University of Chicago has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
University of Chicago has a student-to-faculty ratio of 5:1, while USC has a ratio of 9:1. University of Chicago offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At University of Chicago, 47% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $62,300. At USC, 70% of students receive aid with an average grant of $46,897.
The median earnings for University of Chicago graduates 10 years after enrollment is $91,885, 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.
University of Chicago is located in Chicago, IL in a city: large setting. USC is located in Los Angeles, CA in a city: large setting.

