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The Battle of California’s Top Colleges: Stanford vs UCLA vs USC
06/23/2023•23 minute read
Embarking on your higher education journey is a significant step toward shaping your future. Selecting the right university involves considering its reputation, available resources, and the potential for personal growth and development. In this blog, we'll explore California's top-tier institutions - Stanford, UCLA, and USC - to help you determine the ideal college that aligns with your aspirations and paves the way for your success!
The Golden State is home to many prestigious universities, each offering its unique blend of academic excellence, vibrant campus life, and personal and professional growth opportunities. As the battle for supremacy among California's top colleges rages on, three institutions consistently rise Stanford, UCLA, and USC. From their rich academic offerings and cutting-edge research facilities to their diverse student communities and extracurricular activities, we'll explore the key factors that set these institutions apart and make them standout choices for students seeking world-class education.
By providing an in-depth analysis of their unique characteristics, we aim to empower you to decide which of these esteemed colleges will serve as the ideal launchpad for your future success. Get ready to witness the epic battle of California's academic giants!
| Stanford | UCLA | USC | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Location | Palo Alto, CA | Los Angeles, CA | Los Angeles, CA |
| QS World University Ranking 2023 | 3 | 44 | 134 |
| Class of 2026 Acceptance Rate | 3.68% | ~12% | ~12% |
| Average GPA | 3.7-4.0 | 3.9-4.0 | 3.83-4.00 |
| Average SAT/ACT Scores | SAT: 1460-1580 ACT: 32-35 | SAT: 1370 - 1540 ACT: 30 - 35 | SAT: 1350 - 1530 ACT: 30 - 34 |
| Tuition 2022/23 | $57,693 | $31,026 | $63,468 |
| Median Starting Salary for Graduates | $93,000 | $49,600 | $60,000 |
Stanford University
Nestled in the heart of Silicon Valley, Stanford University stands as an emblem of academic excellence, cutting-edge research, and entrepreneurial spirit. Founded in 1885 by Leland and Jane Stanford, this prestigious Ivy League institution has consistently ranked among the world's top universities, drawing ambitious and intellectually curious students from around the globe.
The university boasts a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs across its seven schools, covering humanities, sciences, engineering, and business disciplines. With a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary learning, Stanford encourages students to explore and connect ideas across various fields of study, fostering a culture of innovation and intellectual curiosity.
Stanford is renowned for its state-of-the-art research facilities and commitment to addressing global challenges through groundbreaking discoveries. Home to numerous Nobel laureates, Pulitzer Prize winners, and MacArthur Fellows, the university's distinguished faculty provides students with unparalleled access to mentorship and research opportunities.
The picturesque 8,180-acre campus offers a vibrant and supportive community where students can engage in many extracurricular activities, from joining one of over 600 student-run organizations to participating in competitive sports and artistic pursuits. Stanford's strong alum network further ensures that graduates remain connected to the university and its resources long after they've earned their degrees.
Stanford University undoubtedly stands as a top contender for aspiring intellectual seeking a transformative educational n an environment that nurtures creativity, leadership, and global impact.
Did you know? Stanford is the alma mater of 30 living billionaires and 17 current astronauts!
University of California, Los Angeles
Established in 1919, The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) is a ​​large, 4-year public university and part of the UC system. While not an Ivy League institution, UCLA's prestigious reputation and exceptional offerings rival its Ivy counterparts, making it an attractive option for top-tier students seeking an enriching educational experience.
UCLA comprises various undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across its different schools and colleges, spanning disciplines such as humanities, sciences, engineering, arts, and business. The university's commitment to interdisciplinary learning encourages students to broaden their horizons and cultivate innovative thinking by exploring multiple fields of study.
As a leading research institution, UCLA is home to numerous cutting-edge research centers and institutes that address pressing global issues and drive scientific breakthroughs. Students have ample opportunities to engage in research projects alongside distinguished faculty members, including Nobel laureates, Pulitzer Prize winners, and MacArthur Fellows.
The campus, located in the vibrant Westwood neighborhood of Los Angeles, offers a thriving and inclusive community where students can immerse themselves in diverse extracurricular activities. With over 1,000 student organizations, competitive sports teams, and abundant artistic opportunities, UCLA fosters personal growth and fosters lifelong connections.
Did you know? UCLA hosts more than 1,000 visual and performing arts events annually and attracts more than 500,000 visitors!
University of Southern California
Founded in 1880, the University of Southern California (USC) has established itself as a premier center for academic rigor, innovative research, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Though not an Ivy League institution, USC's distinguished reputation and excellent resources make it a compelling choice for highly motivated students seeking an unparalleled educational experience.
USC offers various undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs through its different schools and colleges, encompassing humanities, sciences, engineering, arts, and business disciplines. The university's commitment to fostering a collaborative learning environment enables students to engage with diverse perspectives and develop innovative solutions across multiple fields of study.
As a leading research university, USC provides students access to state-of-the-art research facilities and opportunities to work alongside esteemed faculty members on groundbreaking projects. The university's distinguished scholars, including Nobel laureates, Pulitzer Prize winners, and MacArthur Fellows, serve as inspiring mentors and collaborators for students pursuing research endeavors.
Situated in the heart of Los Angeles, USC's vibrant campus is a melting pot of cultural diversity and intellectual curiosity. With over 1,000 student organizations, competitive athletic programs, and a thriving arts scene, USC offers many extracurricular activities that foster personal growth and lasting connections among students.
For the intellectually ambitious student who desires a top-tier education within a dynamic, engaging, and supportive community, the University of Southern California stands as an exceptional contender among the world's most prestigious universities.
Did you know? USC is the only university to have produced a gold medalist in every Summer Olympiad since 1912.
Location
The three universities are located on the west coast, with Stanford in Northern California, and USC and UCLA in Southern California. Which university has a better location? Is Stanford better than USC or UCLA? It all depends on your personal preference. Check out the differences between Stanford, UCLA, and USC below!
| Stanford | UCLA & USC | |
|---|---|---|
| Setting | Suburban | Urban |
| City | Palo Alto, nicknamed the "Birthplace of Silicon Valley," is a global leader in cutting-edge technological development — perfect for students looking to immerse themselves in the tech world. Palo Alto is also a great place for outdoor enthusiasts, with hiking, outdoor movies, and many other fun activities. | UCLA and USC are located in Los Angeles, the second-largest city in the country and the world's entertainment capital. This multicultural city offers a vibrant urban environment that is ideal for students to live and study in, and many beaches and hiking trails are nearby for students to enjoy. |
| Weather | Summers at Stanford are long, warm, and comfortable while the winters are short, rainy, and partly cloudy. The temperature varies from 6°C to 25°C throughout the year and rarely drops below 3°C or rises above 30°C. | Most days in the city are sunny, and compared to Palo Alto, it has slightly less rain and more sunshine, with an average high of 21°C and an average low of 13°C. |
Size & Student Body
| Stanford | UCLA | USC | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Student-Faculty ratio | 5:1 | 18:1 | 9:1 |
| Total student population | 16,937 | 46,000 | 49,500 |
| Undergraduate size | 7,645 | 31,636 | 21,000 |
| Percentage of international students in the Class of 2025 | 12% | 10% | 23.8% |
Academics
Here are some of the most popular academic subjects at Stanford, UCLA, and USC.
Most popular majors at Stanford
Most popular majors at UCLA
Most popular majors at USC
Tuition
While many elite universities in the United States charge high tuition rates, they also offer generous financial aid packages. Additional costs include fees, accommodation, travel, and personal expenses. The annual cost to attend these top universities is $51,252 - $85,648.
Tuition & Living Expenses 2022/23
| Stanford | UCLA | USC | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition | $57,693 | California residents: $13,804 Out-of-state and international students: $31,026 | $63,468 |
| Room (Housing) and Board (Meal Plan) | $18,619 | $17,231 | $17,436 |
| Total estimated cost of attendance | $82,162 | $51,252 -$68,474 | $85,648 |
Financial Aid & Scholarships Overview
It's no secret that the sticker price of attending a top university can be quite high. No matter your reasons for pursuing an education, the cost of tuition shouldn't stop you from achieving your goals.
The figures mentioned above may seem out of reach for many, but there are often financial aid opportunities at all three universities!
Stanford’s Financial Aid & Scholarships
Stanford offers need-based financial aid for all admitted undergraduate students, emphasizing that they do not expect students to take loans to meet their needs. Nearly half of Stanford undergraduates receive need-based financial aid, and families that earn less than $75,000 pay no tuition nor room and board.
USC’s Financial Aid & Scholarships
USC has a need-blind admissions process, which means a student's ability to pay or interest in receiving financial aid has no bearing on admission. Around two-thirds of the fall 2021 first-year class received financial assistance, with approximately 20% receiving a merit-based scholarship.
Learn more about Need-Blind and Need-Aware Policies
UCLA’s Financial Aid & Scholarships
The tuition at UCLA is considerably lower for California residents compared to out-of-state students and international students. To help students afford an education, the university provides links and resources for scholarships, grants, student loans, and part-time jobs. Parents are also given strategies for funding their child's education.
Crimson's admissions experts have provided this free resource on How Financial Aid Works & How To Apply For Financial Aid if you'd like to learn more.
Extracurriculars
Stanford Extracurriculars
With more than 625 student groups on campus, Stanford boasts a thriving campus with a vibrant community of creative and ambitious students worldwide. Stanford's campus has an abundance of arts and culture, athletics and fitness organizations and provides excellent opportunities for its graduate students.
USC Extracurriculars
USC is home to over 850 student organizations responsible for most of the events and programs held on campus, including concerts, lectures, special events, spirit rallies, cultural and social programs, and conferences. See this complete list of student organizations at USC if you're interested in learning more.
UCLA Extracurriculars
Wander along the Bruin Walk at UCLA, and you'll see students enthusiastically promoting their clubs and organizations. The options at the university are endless: from politics and social awareness to arts, science, fitness, and Greek life. With over 1,000 clubs and organizations to choose from, students are encouraged to follow their passions and pursue their interests.Â
Whatever your extracurricular interests are, there will be a club that suits you. You can also create your own student organization if one doesn't exist at the universities! All three universities offer support and encouragement to carve your own path.
Applications
All three of these prestigious universities in California are highly competitive academic institutions, and applicants must meet minimum GPA requirements. While grades and accolades are important at these top universities, they all consider applicants holistically, beyond academics.
Stanford's Admissions Approach
Stanford takes a holistic approach in its selection process, examining every aspect of the application as part of an overall assessment of the individual. Stanford's admissions officers evaluate prospective students based on academic excellence, intellectual vitality, and extracurricular activities. They pay close attention to each student's unique circumstances to determine how you would thrive on Stanford's campus and how you would make an impact on their community.
UCLA's Admissions Approach
UCLA has an admission review process that looks for students who demonstrate intellectual curiosity, leadership, initiative, and tenacity — ones who would actively contribute to the learning environment on campus. In addition to examining the applicant's personal characteristics, they consider their academic achievement, their record of engaging in college preparatory work in high school, and the opportunities and challenges they have faced along the way.
Check out our guide on How to get into UCLA!
USC's Admissions Approach
Admissions officers at USC select students they believe will thrive on campus; the holistic and comprehensive application process aims to help the admissions officers understand how you would take advantage of the opportunities offered by the school. During the assessment process, they analyze the applicant's academic performance, program rigour, writing abilities, and test scores. Personal qualities are assessed through the community involvement, leadership, and achievements in a student's application.
If you want to learn how to boost your overall application to top universities and make sure your application stands out, download our free eBook on How to Crush Your US College Application!
Tips for Choosing Between Stanford vs UCLA vs USC
Academic programs and strengths
When comparing academic programs and strengths between Stanford, UCLA, and USC, it's crucial to consider each university's offerings, faculty expertise, research opportunities, and reputation in your desired field. Stanford is renowned for its engineering, computer science, business, and entrepreneurship programs, while UCLA excels in film and television, fine arts, social sciences, and life sciences. Conversely, USC is particularly acclaimed for its cinematic arts, communication, journalism, and business programs. Assess the course offerings, faculty members, and research facilities in your area of interest at each institution to determine which best aligns with your academic goals and aspirations.
Career outcomes
Considering each university's connections to industry hubs, job placement rates, and alum networks is essential. Stanford's proximity to Silicon Valley and strong ties to technology and entrepreneurship sectors provide graduates with excellent opportunities in these fields. UCLA, located in Los Angeles, offers graduates access to the entertainment industry and thriving technology and healthcare sectors. USC also boasts strong connections to the entertainment industry and major corporations, mainly through its renowned cinematic arts, communication, journalism, and business programs. Investigate the career support services available at each institution, such as internship programs, job fairs, and networking events, as these can significantly impact your career development and prospects.
Campus resources
As you deliberate on choosing between Stanford, UCLA, and USC, exploring the campus resources each institution offers to support your academic journey and overall well-being is essential. Investigate the quality of educational assistance services available at each university, such as tutoring centers, study workshops, and academic counseling. Examine the libraries, state-of-the-art technology centers, and research facilities to ensure they align with your academic expectations and field of study. Furthermore, evaluate each institution's health and wellness resources, including medical services, mental health counseling, fitness centers, and extracurricular activities, contributing to a well-rounded college experience.
Financial aid
When considering financial aid as a factor in choosing between Stanford, UCLA, and USC, it's essential to thoroughly examine the tuition costs, scholarship opportunities, and financial aid packages each institution offers. Stanford, a private university, has higher tuition fees than the public institutions UCLA and USC; however, it also offers generous need-based financial aid packages that can significantly reduce the financial burden for qualifying students. UCLA and USC, as public universities, generally have lower tuition costs for in-state students and offer various merit-based scholarships and financial aid programs. To make an informed decision, research the specific financial aid resources available at each university, such as grants, loans, work-study programs, and scholarships tailored to your academic achievements or extracurricular involvement.
What makes Crimson different?
Deciding on Your Dream School
Deciding on your dream school among Stanford, UCLA, and USC requires careful consideration of various factors such as academic programs and strengths, career outcomes, campus resources, and financial aid. Each university has unique offerings, industry connections, and campus environments catering to different academic interests and personal preferences. It's crucial to thoroughly evaluate each institution in the context of your specific goals, aspirations, and financial situation. Ultimately, the decision should be based on which institution best aligns with your academic, personal, and professional needs, ensuring a fulfilling and successful college experience that sets the foundation for your future endeavors.
If you still have questions about which universities to apply to, please contact us! We can connect you with one of our academic advisors who can assist you with the admissions process.
