College Comparison
University of South Carolina-Columbia vs The University of Alabama: Which is Better?
Side-by-side comparison of acceptance rates, SAT scores, tuition, earnings, and more, updated with the latest College Scorecard data.
School
University of South Carolina-Columbia
Columbia, SC
School
The University of Alabama
Tuscaloosa, AL
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | South Carolina | Alabama |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 61.5%wins | 75.8% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1180–1380wins | 1170–1400 |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 26–32wins | 24–31 |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $34,934 | $33,200wins |
| Avg Net Price | $24,532 | $22,150wins |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $62,177wins | $59,221 |
| Graduation Rate | 77.8%wins | 73.7% |
| Retention Rate | 90.7%wins | 86.1% |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 18:1wins | 19:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 28,113 | 32,323wins |
Verdict
Based on the data above, South Carolina edges out Alabama 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.
South Carolina Strengths
- ✓Acceptance Rate: 61.5%
- ✓SAT Range (25th–75th): 1180–1380
- ✓ACT Range (25th–75th): 26–32
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $62,177
Alabama Strengths
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $33,200
- ✓Avg Net Price: $22,150
- ✓Total Enrollment: 32,323
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