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University of Southern California vs Wellesley College

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

17
University Wins
9
Tied / N/A
20
Wellesley Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Private nonprofit
Urban
Setting
Suburban
Far West
Region
New England
20,443
Enrollment
2,300
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

10%
Acceptance Rate
14%
1495
SAT Average
1520
34
ACT Midpoint
33
1450-1550
SAT Range
1460-1560

Cost & Financial Aid

$72,097
In-State Tuition
$67,176
$72,097
Out-of-State Tuition
$67,176
$32,740
Average Net Price
$25,496
$13,516
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$2,546
$14,394
Net Price ($30-48K)
$2,836
$19,539
Net Price ($48-75K)
$6,587
$56,116
Net Price ($110K+)
$54,188
22%
Pell Grant Rate
21%
24%
Federal Loan Rate
16%

Academics

92%
Graduation Rate
91%
96%
Retention Rate
97%
59%
Full-Time Faculty
80%
$17,924
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$14,120
25%
First-Gen Students
17%

Student Body

55%
Female
N/A
26%
White
30%
20%
Hispanic
14%
7%
Black
8%
23%
Asian
26%
0.81
Diversity Index
0.79

Outcomes

$74,461
Earnings (6yr)
$65,961
$87,601
Earnings (8yr)
$72,216
$92,498
Earnings (10yr)
$84,803
$18,000
Median Debt
$10,000
0.19x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.12x
81%
Earning Above HS
76%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

393.30%
Mobility Rate
240.83%
5455.5%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
4361.1%
720.9%
From Bottom 20%
552.2%
$120,100
Parent Median Income
$142,500

Social Capital

1.78
Economic Connectedness
1.84
0.03
Friending Bias
-0.00
8.2%
Volunteering Rate
16.7%

Research (Times HE)

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

The Overviews

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.

Wellesley College

Wellesley, MA · Private nonprofit

14% accept 91% grad $84,803 earnings $25,496 net

Wellesley College is a great fit for students who are focused on a strong academic experience and personal growth. With an acceptance rate of just 14%, this school attracts motivated individuals who are passionate about subjects like Social Sciences, Biology, and Computer Science. The environment here is tailored for those who thrive in a rigorous, supportive setting, making it a solid choice for anyone serious about their studies.

After graduation, Wellesley alumni see impressive outcomes, with a median earnings figure of $84,803 after ten years. This reflects the value of a Wellesley education in the job market. While the cost of attendance can be a concern, the school’s commitment to affordability helps many students manage their financial futures. The relatively low median debt of $10,000 for graduates suggests that most leave with manageable financial obligations.

When it comes to the practicalities, the net price after aid sits at $25,496, which is reasonable for a private institution. Students who tend to thrive here are often those who appreciate a close-knit community and seek a challenging academic environment. With a graduation rate of 91%, it’s clear that Wellesley supports its students well, helping them not just to finish their degrees, but to succeed afterward.

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