Total Cost Comparison (4 Years)
Estimated sticker price before financial aid.
USC
$344,488
4-year total (private)
VS
Alabama
$178,000
4-year total (out-of-state)
After average financial aid, estimated net cost: USC = $175,048 | Alabama = $125,600. Your actual cost may differ. Use each school's Net Price Calculator for a personalized estimate.
USC Top Majors
BusinessFilmComputer ScienceEngineeringCommunicationAlabama Top Majors
BusinessNursingEngineeringCommunicationBiology
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is USC or Alabama harder to get into?+
USC is more selective with an acceptance rate of 9.2% compared to 80.0%. Both schools look at GPA, test scores, extracurriculars, essays, and recommendations in their admissions process.
Which is cheaper, USC or Alabama?+
At sticker price, Alabama costs less over 4 years ($178,000 vs $344,488). However, financial aid can dramatically change the actual cost. USC offers an average of $42,360/year in aid while Alabama offers $13,100/year. Always compare your actual net price after aid.
What are the average SAT scores for USC and Alabama?+
The average SAT score at USC is 1480 and at Alabama it is 1260. 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 USC or Alabama graduates earn more?+
Graduates of USC have a higher average starting salary ($78,900 vs $58,400). 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?+
USC has a 9:1 student-to-faculty ratio while Alabama has 19:1. A lower ratio generally means smaller class sizes and more individual attention from professors.
How do USC and Alabama compare for campus life?+
USC is located in Los Angeles, California (urban setting) with a 229-acre campus. Alabama is in Tuscaloosa, Alabama (suburban setting) with 1,168 acres. USC competes in NCAA D1 athletics and Alabama in NCAA D1.