USC vs UCLA: Side-by-Side Comparison
Data-driven comparison to help you decide.
At a Glance
| Metric | USC | UCLA | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 10.0% | 9.0% | USC (easier) |
| Average SAT | 1495 | N/A | |
| Graduation Rate | N/A | 92.6% | |
| Enrollment | 52,694 | 33,475 | USC larger |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $63,468 | $49,403 | UCLA cheaper |
| Median Earnings (10yr) | $82,500 | $82,511 | UCLA |
| Median Debt | N/A | $14,000 | |
| Pell Grant Rate | 22.0% | 28.2% | Higher = more low-income students |
Decision Score Comparison
USC
UCLA
Top Majors Compared
USC
Business/Marketing
22.4%
Visual/Performing Arts
12.1%
Social Sciences
10.8%
Engineering
8.3%
Communication
8.2%
UCLA
Social Sciences
18.0%
Biological Sciences
12.0%
Psychology
10.0%
Engineering
9.0%
Visual/Performing Arts
8.0%
Which Should You Choose?
Both USC and UCLA are outstanding institutions. The right choice depends on your priorities:
- If location matters: USC is in Los Angeles, CA while UCLA is in Los Angeles, CA
- If cost is a factor: Compare net prices for your family income bracket above
- If career outcomes are the priority: Look at the salary data by major for each school
- If getting in is the concern: Check which school's acceptance rate and profile better match yours
Explore Each School
Data source: College Scorecard, IPEDS.