Total Cost Comparison (4 Years)
Estimated sticker price before financial aid.
Rutgers
$197,136
4-year total (out-of-state)
VS
USC
$344,488
4-year total (private)
After average financial aid, estimated net cost: Rutgers = $139,136 | USC = $175,048. Your actual cost may differ. Use each school's Net Price Calculator for a personalized estimate.
Rutgers Top Majors
BusinessBiologyEngineeringComputer SciencePsychologyUSC Top Majors
BusinessFilmComputer ScienceEngineeringCommunication
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Rutgers or USC harder to get into?+
USC is more selective with an acceptance rate of 9.2% compared to 68.0%. Both schools look at GPA, test scores, extracurriculars, essays, and recommendations in their admissions process.
Which is cheaper, Rutgers or USC?+
At sticker price, Rutgers costs less over 4 years ($197,136 vs $344,488). However, financial aid can dramatically change the actual cost. Rutgers offers an average of $14,500/year in aid while USC offers $42,360/year. Always compare your actual net price after aid.
What are the average SAT scores for Rutgers and USC?+
The average SAT score at Rutgers is 1340 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 Rutgers or USC graduates earn more?+
Graduates of USC have a higher average starting salary ($78,900 vs $67,200). 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?+
Rutgers has a 16:1 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 Rutgers and USC compare for campus life?+
Rutgers is located in New Brunswick, New Jersey (suburban setting) with a 2,685-acre campus. USC is in Los Angeles, California (urban setting) with 229 acres. Rutgers competes in NCAA D1 athletics and USC in NCAA D1.