College Comparison
Cornell 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
Cornell University
Ithaca, NY
School
USC
Los Angeles, CA
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Cornell | USC |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 8.2%wins | 10.0% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1480–1560wins | 1440–1550 |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 33–35wins | 32–35 |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $66,014wins | $68,237 |
| Avg Net Price | $32,337 | $31,927wins |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $104,043wins | $92,498 |
| Graduation Rate | 95.1%wins | 92.0% |
| Retention Rate | 97.8%wins | 96.5% |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 9:1 | 9:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 15,935 | 20,817wins |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Cornell 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.
Cornell Strengths
- ✓Acceptance Rate: 8.2%
- ✓SAT Range (25th–75th): 1480–1560
- ✓ACT Range (25th–75th): 33–35
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $66,014
USC Strengths
- ✓Avg Net Price: $31,927
- ✓Total Enrollment: 20,817
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