College Comparison
American University vs University of South Carolina-Columbia: Which is Better?
Side-by-side comparison of acceptance rates, SAT scores, tuition, earnings, and more, updated with the latest College Scorecard data.
School
American University
Washington, DC
School
University of South Carolina-Columbia
Columbia, SC
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | American University | South Carolina |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 47.4%wins | 61.5% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1300–1450wins | 1180–1380 |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 29–33wins | 26–32 |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $56,543 | $34,934wins |
| Avg Net Price | $41,945 | $24,532wins |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $77,370wins | $62,177 |
| Graduation Rate | 78.5%wins | 77.8% |
| Retention Rate | 86.2% | 90.7%wins |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 10:1wins | 18:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 7,593 | 28,113wins |
Verdict
Based on the data above, American University edges out South Carolina on 6 of 10 measurable categories, including key factors like acceptance rate, earnings, and graduation rate. That said, the right choice depends heavily on your major, financial situation, and campus culture fit.
American University Strengths
- ✓Acceptance Rate: 47.4%
- ✓SAT Range (25th–75th): 1300–1450
- ✓ACT Range (25th–75th): 29–33
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $77,370
South Carolina Strengths
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $34,934
- ✓Avg Net Price: $24,532
- ✓Retention Rate: 90.7%
- ✓Total Enrollment: 28,113
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