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Boston University vs University of Southern California

46 data points compared. Stronger value in each row highlighted. Sources: College Scorecard, Opportunity Insights, Times Higher Education, IPEDS.

16
Boston Wins
6
Tied / N/A
24
University Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Private nonprofit
Urban
Setting
Urban
New England
Region
Far West
18,248
Enrollment
20,443
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

11%
Acceptance Rate
10%
1480
SAT Average
1495
33
ACT Midpoint
34
1420-1530
SAT Range
1450-1550

Cost & Financial Aid

$68,102
In-State Tuition
$72,097
$68,102
Out-of-State Tuition
$72,097
$24,402
Average Net Price
$32,740
$9,500
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$13,516
$9,342
Net Price ($30-48K)
$14,394
$11,778
Net Price ($48-75K)
$19,539
$47,504
Net Price ($110K+)
$56,116
19%
Pell Grant Rate
22%
23%
Federal Loan Rate
24%

Academics

89%
Graduation Rate
92%
95%
Retention Rate
96%
70%
Full-Time Faculty
59%
$16,623
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$17,924
17%
First-Gen Students
25%

Student Body

65%
Female
55%
32%
White
26%
11%
Hispanic
20%
6%
Black
7%
21%
Asian
23%
0.79
Diversity Index
0.81

Outcomes

$65,655
Earnings (6yr)
$74,461
$73,661
Earnings (8yr)
$87,601
$83,238
Earnings (10yr)
$92,498
$23,250
Median Debt
$18,000
0.28x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.19x
81%
Earning Above HS
81%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

201.75%
Mobility Rate
393.30%
5043.5%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
5455.5%
400.0%
From Bottom 20%
720.9%
$126,800
Parent Median Income
$120,100

Social Capital

1.89
Economic Connectedness
1.78
-0.00
Friending Bias
0.03
9.7%
Volunteering Rate
8.2%

Research (Times HE)

#59
World Rank
#73
53.6
Teaching Score
65.4
51.9
Research Score
48.7
91.4
Citations Score
71.9

The Overviews

Boston University

Boston, MA · Private nonprofit

11% accept 89% grad $83,238 earnings $24,402 net

With an acceptance rate of just 11%, Boston University is a great fit for motivated students who are ready to engage with a vibrant urban campus. It's an appealing choice for those interested in Business & Marketing, Social Sciences, Communications, Biology & Biomedical, or Computer Science & IT. The school’s diverse offerings attract students who are eager to explore various disciplines and prepare for dynamic careers.

After graduation, students from Boston University can expect to earn an impressive average of $83,238 within a decade. This means graduates are stepping into solid financial footing relatively quickly, which is encouraging for those considering their return on investment. With a graduation rate of 89%, it shows that students not only enroll but also successfully complete their degrees, paving the way for upward mobility in their careers.

When it comes to the practical side of financing your education, the net price after aid stands at approximately $24,402, which is manageable for many families. The median debt for graduates is $23,250, a figure that many could navigate effectively post-graduation. Students who thrive here tend to be those who are ready to take advantage of Boston’s resources and connections, ultimately setting themselves up for successful futures.

University of Southern California

Los Angeles, CA · Private nonprofit

10% accept 92% grad $92,498 earnings $32,740 net

The University of Southern California has an impressive graduation rate of 92%. This reflects the institution's strong commitment to student success and academic support. Students here are likely to find a community that encourages them to complete their degrees on time.

According to data from Opportunity Insights, while specific mobility metrics are not available, the high graduation rate suggests that many students are able to improve their economic prospects through education. Graduates from USC earn a median salary of $92,498 a decade after leaving, indicating a solid return on investment for their education.

The cost of attendance at USC is $32,740, with a median debt of $18,000 for those who borrow. This financial landscape makes it essential for prospective students to consider their funding options. Students who thrive at USC often have a clear focus on their career paths, particularly in fields like business, arts, and technology.

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