Cooper Union vs USC
How Cooper Union and USC stack up on the numbers that decide where you apply: selectivity, cost after aid, testing, and essays.
| Cooper Union | USC | |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 11% | 10% |
| SAT (middle 50%) | 1280-1530 | 1360-1530 |
| Testing policy | Test-optional | Test-optional |
| Type | Private | Private |
| Location | NY | CA |
| Sticker price (per year) | $69,986 | $89,006 |
| Average cost after aid | $13,269 | $37,500 |
| Supplemental essays | 3 | 2 |
- USC is harder to get into than Cooper Union (10% versus 11%), so treat it as the bigger reach.
- After aid, Cooper Union is usually the cheaper option ($13,269 versus $37,500 per year on average).
- Both are test-optional, so you can apply without submitting SAT or ACT scores.
- Cooper Union asks for more supplemental writing (3 essays versus 2), so budget more time for its application.
- Run the free chances calculator to see your real odds at both, then get a free read on each school's essays.
Cooper Union vs USC FAQ
Is Cooper Union or USC harder to get into?
USC is harder to get into, admitting about 10% of applicants versus 11% at Cooper Union.
Is Cooper Union or USC cheaper?
After financial aid, Cooper Union is usually cheaper, about $13,269 per year on average versus $37,500 at USC.
See your real chances at Cooper Union and USC.
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