Skip to content

College Comparison

Brown University vs USC: Which is Better?

Side-by-side comparison of acceptance rates, SAT scores, tuition, earnings, and more, updated with the latest College Scorecard data.

School

Brown University

Providence, RI

School

USC

Los Angeles, CA

Head-to-Head Stats

MetricBrownUSC
Acceptance Rate5.2%wins10.0%
SAT Range (25th–75th)1500–1570wins1440–1550
ACT Range (25th–75th)34–35wins32–35
Tuition (Out-of-State)$68,230wins$68,237
Avg Net Price$26,572wins$31,927
Median Earnings (10 yr)$93,487wins$92,498
Graduation Rate96.0%wins92.0%
Retention Rate98.7%wins96.5%
Student–Faculty Ratio6:1wins9:1
Total Enrollment7,27320,817wins

Verdict

Based on the data above, Brown edges out USC on 9 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.

Brown Strengths

  • Acceptance Rate: 5.2%
  • SAT Range (25th–75th): 1500–1570
  • ACT Range (25th–75th): 34–35
  • Tuition (Out-of-State): $68,230

USC Strengths

  • Total Enrollment: 20,817

Want a deeper comparison?

Our interactive compare tool lets you add more schools, filter by major, and see financial aid breakdowns by income level.

Open Compare Tool

Related Comparisons