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College Comparison

Northeastern 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

Northeastern University

Boston, MA

School

University of South Carolina-Columbia

Columbia, SC

Head-to-Head Stats

MetricNortheasternSouth Carolina
Acceptance Rate9.9%wins61.5%
SAT Range (25th–75th)1460–1550wins1180–1380
ACT Range (25th–75th)33–35wins26–32
Tuition (Out-of-State)$63,141$34,934wins
Avg Net Price$32,116$24,532wins
Median Earnings (10 yr)$92,538wins$62,177
Graduation Rate90.4%wins77.8%
Retention Rate97.5%wins90.7%
Student–Faculty Ratio16:1wins18:1
Total Enrollment15,71928,113wins

Verdict

Based on the data above, Northeastern edges out South Carolina on 7 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.

Northeastern Strengths

  • Acceptance Rate: 9.9%
  • SAT Range (25th–75th): 1460–1550
  • ACT Range (25th–75th): 33–35
  • Median Earnings (10 yr): $92,538

South Carolina Strengths

  • Tuition (Out-of-State): $34,934
  • Avg Net Price: $24,532
  • Total Enrollment: 28,113

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