College Comparison
University of Minnesota 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
University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, MN
School
University of South Carolina-Columbia
Columbia, SC
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | U of Minnesota | South Carolina |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 77.0% | 61.5%wins |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1310–1480wins | 1180–1380 |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 27–31wins | 26–32 |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $36,402 | $34,934wins |
| Avg Net Price | $17,139wins | $24,532 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $69,020wins | $62,177 |
| Graduation Rate | 84.8%wins | 77.8% |
| Retention Rate | 90.9%wins | 90.7% |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 16:1wins | 18:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 30,469wins | 28,113 |
Verdict
Based on the data above, U of Minnesota edges out South Carolina on 8 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.
U of Minnesota Strengths
- ✓SAT Range (25th–75th): 1310–1480
- ✓ACT Range (25th–75th): 27–31
- ✓Avg Net Price: $17,139
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $69,020
South Carolina Strengths
- ✓Acceptance Rate: 61.5%
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $34,934
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