College Comparison
University of Southern California vs Vanderbilt University
Compare acceptance rates, costs, test scores, graduation rates, and more to find your best fit.
At a Glance
Type
Private
Private
Location
Los Angeles, CA
Nashville, TN
Total Enrollment
46,566
13,575
Undergrad Enrollment
20,630
7,221
Student-Faculty Ratio
9:1
8:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
9.8%
5.9%
Average GPA
3.83
3.93
SAT Range
1450–1550
1500–1570
ACT Range
32–35
34–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$85
$50
Total Applicants
82,027
45,409
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$83,399
$80,184
Avg Net Price
$36,000
$19,040
Tuition (In-State)
$63,468
$58,130
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$63,468
$58,130
Room & Board
$19,931
$22,054
% Receiving Aid
70.0%
67.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$46,897
$64,404
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
93.0%
94.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
84.0%
90.0%
Retention Rate
96.0%
96.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$92,498
$91,565
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Explore by Location
USC is in Los Angeles, CA
Vanderbilt is in Nashville, TN
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at USC is $36,000 per year, compared to $19,040 at Vanderbilt University. Vanderbilt University is $16,960 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at USC typically score between 1450-1550 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Vanderbilt University, the typical SAT range is 1500-1570. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
USC has a graduation rate of 93%, while Vanderbilt University has a graduation rate of 94%. Vanderbilt University has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
USC has a student-to-faculty ratio of 9:1, while Vanderbilt University has a ratio of 8:1. Vanderbilt University offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At USC, 70% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $46,897. At Vanderbilt University, 67% of students receive aid with an average grant of $64,404.
The median earnings for USC graduates 10 years after enrollment is $92,498, compared to $91,565 for Vanderbilt University graduates. Graduates from USC tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
USC is located in Los Angeles, CA in a city: large setting. Vanderbilt University is located in Nashville, TN in a city: large setting.

