USC vs. UCLA, Which School Is Right For You?

If you’re trying to decide between USC and UCLA, you’re facing a choice between two of Los Angeles’s most renowned universities. These two universities sit just a few miles apart in Los Angeles and are often compared for their academic excellence, student life, and iconic alumni. While they may share a zip code, USC and UCLA offer very different college experiences. 

Both USC and UCLA are top-ranked research universities located in Southern California, and they each offer strong academics, vibrant student life, and impressive alumni networks. While they may seem similar at first glance, there are key differences that set them apart. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at those distinctions to help you decide which school may be the better fit for you.

• USC is a private university known for its strong programs in business, engineering, and the arts. It is located in the downtown-adjacent university Park neighborhood. The area is highly urban, with close proximity to LA’s cultural institutions, media hubs, and business centers. The campus itself is compact and designed to foster a strong sense of community, often described as having a more traditional collegiate atmosphere despite its urban setting. 
• UCLA is a public university, widely respected for its research, diversity, and academic offerings across a broad range of disciplines. It is situated in Westwood, a more residential and suburban area of Los Angeles. Its campus is larger, with open green spaces, historic architecture, and a vibrant college-town feel. The location offers convenient access to beaches, hiking trails, and cultural hotspots on the city’s west side. 

Students who prefer a bustling, city-based experience may be drawn to USC, while those seeking a more scenic and spread-out campus might find UCLA more appealing.

Quick Comparison 

Feature	USC	UCLA
Location	Downtown Los Angeles	Westwood (Suburban LA)
US News Rank	#27	#15
Undergrad Enrollment	~21,000	~33,040
International Students	26.6%	7.7%
Student-Faculty Ratio	9:1	19:1
Acceptance Rate	9.2%	8.6%
SAT Range	1440-1540	1290-1510
ACT Range	32-35	29-32
Tuition	$99,139	$43,615 (in-state), $81,217 (out-of-state)
Type	Private	Public

Academic Programs and Opportunities  

Both universities provide a wide range of academic offerings, but each has unique strengths. 

USC offers over 150 undergraduate majors and is particularly well-known for:

• The Marshall School of Business
• The Viterbi School of Engineering
• The School of Cinematic Arts, widely regarded as one of the best film programs globally

USC encourages interdisciplinary study, and students frequently double-major or pursue programs that span multiple fields. The university also maintains close ties to industries such as entertainment, tech, and finance, offering students access to real-world projects and internships. 

UCLA  offers over 125 majors and 90 minors and has strong programs in:

• Biological Sciences and Pre-Med 
• Psychology, Political Science, and Economics 
• Engineering, Public Health, and Social Sciences 

As part of the UC system, UCLA emphasizes research and offers undergraduate students the opportunity to engage in faculty-led projects. It is known for small seminars such as the Fiat Lux program, which allows first-year students to take discussion-based classes in a variety of subjects.

Class Size and Student Life

The scale and structure of each university contribute to different classroom experiences and campus cultures.

At USC, the undergraduate population is approximately 21,00 and the student-to-faculty ratio is approximately 9:1. Classes tend to be smaller, especially in upper-level courses and faculty interaction is more accessible. The private nature of the institution fosters a strong sense of school identity and alumni engagement. 

UCLA, with 33,040 undergraduate students, has a student-to-faculty ratio of 19:1. The university supports a vast number of student organizations, cultural events, and volunteer programs, giving students numerous ways to build community despite the campus’s larger size.

Admissions Selectivity and Application Process

Admissions at both USC and UCLA are highly competitive.

USC Admissions

• Uses the Common Application.
• Is test-optional for the SAT and ACT.
• Requires one letter of recommendation.
• Some majors require portfolios or auditions.

UCLA Admissions

• Uses the University of California application.
• Is test-optional for the SAT and ACT.
• Does not require letters of recommendation.
• Focuses on academic performance, completion of UC-required coursework, and responses to Personal Insight Questions.

Students seeking a more holistic and personalized admissions review may appreciate USC’s approach, while UCLA applicants should be prepared to highlight academic performance and extracurricular engagement within the structured UC application system. 

Tuition and Financial Aid

The cost of attendance differs significantly between the two institutions, largely due to their public and private designations.

• USC’s tuition for the 2025-2026 academic year is approximately $99,139.
• UCLA’s tuition is $43,615 for California residents and $81,217 for non-residents.

USC often provides generous financial aid packages, including merit-based scholarships and need-based grants. The university is committed to meeting full demonstrated financial need for admitted students.

UCLA offers lower tuition for in-state students and need-based aid through the Blue and Gold Opportunity Plan and the Middle Class Scholarship. Out-of-state students may find fewer merit aid options, but overall costs can still be competitive depending on individual financial circumstances.

There is no universal answer when it comes to choosing between USC and UCLA. Both universities offer world-class academics, vibrant student communities, and access to professional opportunities in one of the most dynamic cities in the world. 

However, your ideal school will depend on what you value most in a college experience. If you’re looking for smaller class sizes, a more personalized admissions process, or access to private university resources, USC may be a better fit. On the other hand, if you’re drawn to a large and diverse student body, a strong emphasis on public service and research, or lower in-state tuition, UCLA could be the right choice. 

As you research and compare, take the time to reflect on your learning style, career aspirations, and the type of environment where you’ll thrive. Look into specific programs, student support services, and internship opportunities. 

At Ivy Talent, we provide families with the right resources and guidance to make the process easier. Contact us for more information on how to get your child into the ideal school.