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Ohio State University-Main Campus vs University of Southern California

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

13
Ohio Wins
13
Tied / N/A
20
University Wins

Overview

Public
Type
Private nonprofit
Urban
Setting
Urban
Great Lakes
Region
Far West
45,638
Enrollment
20,443
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

61%
Acceptance Rate
10%
1387
SAT Average
1495
29
ACT Midpoint
34
1310-1480
SAT Range
1450-1550

Cost & Financial Aid

$13,244
In-State Tuition
$72,097
$40,022
Out-of-State Tuition
$72,097
$17,339
Average Net Price
$32,740
$4,885
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$13,516
$5,751
Net Price ($30-48K)
$14,394
$9,807
Net Price ($48-75K)
$19,539
$27,359
Net Price ($110K+)
$56,116
20%
Pell Grant Rate
22%
29%
Federal Loan Rate
24%

Academics

88%
Graduation Rate
92%
94%
Retention Rate
96%
63%
Full-Time Faculty
59%
$14,386
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$17,924
26%
First-Gen Students
25%

Student Body

52%
Female
55%
60%
White
26%
6%
Hispanic
20%
8%
Black
7%
11%
Asian
23%
0.61
Diversity Index
0.81

Outcomes

$51,438
Earnings (6yr)
$74,461
$56,186
Earnings (8yr)
$87,601
$60,409
Earnings (10yr)
$92,498
$19,976
Median Debt
$18,000
0.33x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.19x
72%
Earning Above HS
81%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

N/A
Mobility Rate
393.30%
N/A
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
5455.5%
N/A
From Bottom 20%
720.9%
N/A
Parent Median Income
$120,100

Social Capital

1.57
Economic Connectedness
1.78
0.03
Friending Bias
0.03
8.5%
Volunteering Rate
8.2%

Research (Times HE)

N/A
World Rank
#73
N/A
Teaching Score
65.4
N/A
Research Score
48.7
N/A
Citations Score
71.9

The Overviews

Ohio State University-Main Campus

Columbus, OH · Public

61% accept 88% grad $60,409 earnings $17,339 net

With an enrollment of over 45,600 students, Ohio State University-Main Campus is a vibrant place for those seeking a large, diverse community. It attracts students who are eager to explore a variety of fields, especially in Business & Marketing, Engineering, Health Professions, Biology & Biomedical, and Social Sciences. The acceptance rate of 61% means there's a good chance for students to join this dynamic environment, where the graduation rate stands impressively at 88%.

Looking at life after graduation, the numbers tell a promising story. Graduates earn a median salary of $60,409 within ten years of completing their degree. This level of income can make a significant difference in improving one’s quality of life, particularly when the cost of attending is manageable. With 20% of students receiving Pell Grants, Ohio State shows a commitment to supporting those from lower-income backgrounds, providing pathways for upward mobility.

When it comes to the financial aspects, the net price after aid is approximately $17,339, which keeps college within reach for many families. The median debt load of $19,976 is relatively low compared to what students at other public institutions might face. This combination of affordability and strong outcomes makes Ohio State a fitting choice for motivated students who are ready to thrive in a collaborative and engaging setting.

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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