College Comparison
Caltech 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
Caltech
Pasadena, CA
School
USC
Los Angeles, CA
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Caltech | USC |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 3.1%wins | 10.0% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | N/A | 1440–1550wins |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | N/A | 32–35 |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $63,255wins | $68,237 |
| Avg Net Price | $18,902wins | $31,927 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $128,566wins | $92,498 |
| Graduation Rate | 93.2%wins | 92.0% |
| Retention Rate | 97.8%wins | 96.5% |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 3:1wins | 9:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 1,023 | 20,817wins |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Caltech edges out USC on 7 of 9 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.
Caltech Strengths
- ✓Acceptance Rate: 3.1%
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $63,255
- ✓Avg Net Price: $18,902
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $128,566
USC Strengths
- ✓SAT Range (25th–75th): 1440–1550
- ✓Total Enrollment: 20,817
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