Total Cost Comparison (4 Years)
Estimated sticker price before financial aid.
Dartmouth
$337,140
4-year total (private)
VS
USC
$344,488
4-year total (private)
After average financial aid, estimated net cost: Dartmouth = $118,580 | USC = $175,048. Your actual cost may differ. Use each school's Net Price Calculator for a personalized estimate.
Dartmouth Top Majors
EconomicsComputer ScienceGovernmentEngineeringBiologyUSC Top Majors
BusinessFilmComputer ScienceEngineeringCommunication
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Dartmouth or USC harder to get into?+
Dartmouth is more selective with an acceptance rate of 6.2% compared to 9.2%. Both schools look at GPA, test scores, extracurriculars, essays, and recommendations in their admissions process.
Which is cheaper, Dartmouth or USC?+
At sticker price, Dartmouth costs less over 4 years ($337,140 vs $344,488). However, financial aid can dramatically change the actual cost. Dartmouth offers an average of $54,640/year in aid while USC offers $42,360/year. Always compare your actual net price after aid.
What are the average SAT scores for Dartmouth and USC?+
The average SAT score at Dartmouth is 1530 and at USC it is 1480. Keep in mind that admitted students often score across a range, and many schools practice holistic admissions where test scores are just one factor.
Do Dartmouth or USC graduates earn more?+
Graduates of Dartmouth have a higher average starting salary ($82,700 vs $78,900). Salary outcomes vary significantly by major, industry, and location — so this is a general average across all graduates.
What is the student-to-faculty ratio at each school?+
Dartmouth has a 7:1 student-to-faculty ratio while USC has 9:1. A lower ratio generally means smaller class sizes and more individual attention from professors.
How do Dartmouth and USC compare for campus life?+
Dartmouth is located in Hanover, New Hampshire (rural setting) with a 269-acre campus. USC is in Los Angeles, California (urban setting) with 229 acres. Dartmouth competes in NCAA D1 athletics and USC in NCAA D1.