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Washington University in St Louis and University of Southern California are both private nonprofit institutions — Washington University in St Louis in St. Louis, MO and University of Southern California in Los Angeles, CA. This page compares published admission, cost, and outcome data from federal sources so you can see the tradeoffs before you add either school to your list.
St. Louis, MO · Private
Acceptance rate: 12.1%
Undergrad enrollment: 7,857
Tuition: $65,790/year
Student-faculty ratio: 7.0:1
Graduation rate: 94.3%
Top programs: Engineering, Biological sciences, Social sciences
Best for: Students who want a private campus in St. Louis, MO with published program strength in Engineering and Biological sciences.
Los Angeles, CA · Private
Acceptance rate: 9.8%
Undergrad enrollment: 20,443
Tuition: $72,097/year
Student-faculty ratio: 9.0:1
Graduation rate: 91.8%
Top programs: Business and marketing, Social sciences, Visual and performing arts
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Los Angeles, CA with published program strength in Business and marketing and Social sciences.
| Factor | Washington University in St Louis | University of Southern California |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 12.1% | 9.8% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| 1500–1570 |
| 1450–1550 |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 33–35 | 32–35 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 7,857 | 20,443 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $65,790/year | $72,097/year |
| Average net price after aid | $21,786 | $32,740 |
| Graduation rate | 94.3% | 91.8% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $86,182 | $92,498 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 7.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Institution type | Private nonprofit | Private nonprofit |
| Location | St. Louis, MO | Los Angeles, CA |
| Largest program areas | Engineering, Biological sciences, Social sciences | Business and marketing, Social sciences, Visual and performing arts |
Both schools admit a similar share of applicants (12.1% vs 9.8%). Washington University in St Louis has a lower average net price after grant aid ($21,786 vs $32,740). Washington University in St Louis reports the higher graduation rate (94.3% vs 91.8%). University of Southern California is the larger undergraduate campus (20,443 students). Use the free side-by-side comparison tool to weigh cost, program fit, location, and outcomes for your own list — and verify deadlines and requirements with each college.
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Common questions when choosing between Washington University in St Louis and University of Southern California
Washington University in St Louis has an acceptance rate of 12.1%; University of Southern California is around 9.8%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
Washington University in St Louis tuition is $65,790/year. University of Southern California is $72,097/year. Compare net price after aid, not sticker price — especially for private schools and out-of-state publics.
Use College Decider's free comparison tool at /compare — add both schools to see tuition, acceptance rates, graduation outcomes, and more in one table.
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