University of California - San Diego Campus Vs University of Southern California: Compare Fees, Placement, Reviews

Compare University of California - San Diego Campus Vs University of Southern California based on their rankings, fees, programs, acceptance rate, admission requirements, placements, and more. Analyze University of California - San Diego Campus Vs University of Southern California on various parameters to choose the right university for International students.

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UCSD V/s University of Southern California
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About College Accordion Icon V3

Established Year

1960

Shiksha Grade

A+

Size of Campus

1200 Acres

Number of Campus

Number of Scholarships

-/-

Accepted Exams

TOEFL+2 More

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Established Year

1880

Shiksha Grade

A+

Size of Campus

229 Acres

Number of Campus

Number of Scholarships

-/-

Accepted Exams

TOEFL+2 More

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Established Year

-/-

Shiksha Grade

-/-

Campus Size

-/-

Number of Campus

-/-

Number of Scholarships

-/-

Accepted Exams

-/-

UCSD V/s University of Southern California
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Ranks

QS Rank

#72

Shiksha Grade

A+

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QS Rank

#125

Shiksha Grade

A+

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Rank

-/-

Shiksha Grade

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UCSD V/s University of Southern California
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Rady School of Management

MBA

Why UC San Diego

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Center Hall

Atkinson Hall

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Geisel Library

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USC Village: A Visual Tour

USC-India: Partner The Future

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USC Great Lawn

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McCarthy Honors College

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Country Facts

Study in USA

Top Ranked and Reputed Universities

Diverse range of world-renowned institutions, offering cutting-edge program
Access to top-notch faculty, resources, and extensive alumni networks

Campus Culture and Safety

Vibrant multicultural environment, fostering tolerance and global exposure
Stringent safety measures with campus police and emergency protocols

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High living standards, comprehensive healthcare, and excellent infra
Access to diverse recreational activities and and natural attractions

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Study in USA

Top Ranked and Reputed Universities

Diverse range of world-renowned institutions, offering cutting-edge program
Access to top-notch faculty, resources, and extensive alumni networks

Campus Culture and Safety

Vibrant multicultural environment, fostering tolerance and global exposure
Stringent safety measures with campus police and emergency protocols

Good Quality of Life

High living standards, comprehensive healthcare, and excellent infra
Access to diverse recreational activities and and natural attractions

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Student’s views on campus

Views on UCSD campus

Anonymous

Master of Science in Computer Science - Batch of 2025

4.9

University of California San Diego is the best place to be.

Tips: San Diego is the best place to live in US. And in particular, TAship and RAship at UCSD come with a tuition fee waiver. There is moderate expenditure. The department is focused on research. Great research facilities and great alumina. On-campus housing is a plus and free passes to roam around San Diego.

Reviewed on 14 Feb 2024Read more

Deepak Sridhar Verified Icon

MS in Signal and Image Processing - Batch of 2027

4.2

Good courses, faculty, research and career options make UCSD a top choice

Tips: Students should look at the cost of living and financial aid options before joining the campus as it is generally expensive to live around San Diego area. Students should clearly be prepared in choosing their track either industry or academic research and start preparing for it from day one. The courses require prior requisites and so students have to carefully look at the track they choose relevant to their interests and put in efforts to achieve their goals. Teaching assistantships are very competitive but might be available during the second year of your program. You'll have to do well on the courses and maintain good contact with the professor if you are looking to get one. Some students get TAs outside their department which is an option to consider. Courses are rigorous and the quarter system is fast-paced. So one has to adapt to this structure.

Likes (Safety): The college administration considers safety to be of utmost importance with annual safety reviews happening every year. Any safety is immediately published to make you aware of the incidents. The campus has security officers to report to even at night times. The area around campus is filled with student population, so there is no concern for safety.

Dislikes (Permanent Immigration): Due to the H1B immigration system, permanent immigration system is convoluted although it might take longer than expected. There are no specifics to the university, this is general for all US universities. Given a chance I would immigrate to this country especially considering the state-the-art work done at many companies

Reviewed on 11 Feb 2024Read more

Views on University of Southern California campus

Anonymous

M.A in Occupational Therapy - Batch of 2026

Offered by University of Southern California

It has been an amazing and very promising experience.

Tips: The campus is beautiful, the classes are interesting, and the university has some courses that allow you to re-attempt tests where you haven't done your best. You will be required to stay up-to-date with a lot of extensive background reading, which can affect your work-life balance. Otherwise, it is a very open and friendly space to learn. The faculty are easily accessible so you can reach out to them. Overall, I am quite satisfied with the course and country.

Reviewed on 30 Nov 2024Read more

Abhinav Gupta Verified Icon

Master of Science in Computer Science - Batch of 2025

Offered by University of Southern California

3.5

Opportunity for those who seek it.

Tips: Before joining this college, students should be ready to take on coursework as soon as they start. Competition is tough because there is a big batch size. You will need to fight for your place. Make sure to learn how to cook because eating out is going to be expensive. Stop covering everything to the Dollar because you won't be able to survive.

Likes (Student Life): Student life is great because the college is very supportive. There are a lot of sports and advanced facilities. The campus has good food and a good vibe. LA as a city is amazing, there is so much to do. There is a little for everyone, city life, beaches, mountains, desert, culture, food and so much more.

Dislikes (Safety): LA as a city is very unsafe. There are homeless people everywhere on the street and even in public transport who come close to you and even try to engage unless you are careful. Travelling alone at night is very difficult and scary. There are crimes happening around every day.

Reviewed on 9 Nov 2024Read more

Anonymous

M.S. in Spatial Economics and Data Analysis - Batch of 2025

Offered by University of Southern California

3.8

Grateful for the experience and lesson.

Tips: The campus is very friendly and welcoming and the student body is diverse so you'll be sure to fit in. The infrastructure is well made and living in California is great for Indians. If there is something to be cautious about, it is the amount of crime happening around the university.

Reviewed on 16 Jul 2024Read more

Ganpati Goel Verified Icon

MS in Engineering Management (MSEMT) - Batch of 2023

Offered by University of Southern California

4.1

The University is awesome, there is a lot of competition, sports, extracurriculars and party house.

Tips: Complete assignments on time, make sure to clear all subjects, and join extracurriculars like Table tennis, triathlon club and cycling etc., if you are not into all of this then don't bother coming to USC and save some money. USC is not merely for education but for the holistic development of self if you have missed that in Indian colleges.

Likes (Public transportation): I personally learnt skateboarding and life was so much easier than to walk the whole campus. So skateboarding + public transport I could travel anywhere in the city. USC also has unlimited free Lyft in 2 mile radius around the campus from 6 pm to 2 am. You can get the tap card at a discount for college students.

Dislikes (Post study jobs): In USA: 1. Post study jobs matter on the following: a. Location of University. If you have done college from East Cost you will get a company call back from East Cost majorly and vice versa- the name of the college doesn't matter as much. b. Experience: Your own experience matters. People with prior experience are more likely to secure jobs. c. On campus companies: Very few companies that come on campus sponsor, so it is pretty much useless.

Reviewed on 5 Jun 2024Read more

Agraj Khare Verified Icon

Master of Science in Electrical Engineering - Batch of 2024

Offered by University of Southern California

3.9

This place has a lot to offer. Student life is happening.

Tips: One should definitely do their due diligence with which course they plan on taking UPAT USC. It is definitely a great leap and transition coming to a new country and it will take some time to get yourself adjusted in the system. Getting habitual of doing everything on your own can also prove to be challenging. With time you will definitely find an on-campus job to support your living expenses and things will improve for the better. The key is to remain patient and stay consistent. USC as a university has a lot to offer, so don't be afraid to grab onto opportunities and get as involved as you can! Make the most of it and have a great time. Striking a balance between fun and work is equally important.

Likes (Student Life): There is always something going around in campus. The campus is forever hustling and bustling. I honestly feel the people you'll meet at USC will be great, I am sure there are exceptions but the student population is diverse and has a lot to offer. There are ample events conducted by AIS (Association of Indian Students) so you don't miss your key festivals away from home.

Dislikes (Safety): Safety is definitely a concern in Downtown Los Angeles. Even though USC makes more than sufficient efforts to keep its students safe, you will come across instances of crime a little too frequently for comfort. But I still feel safety is a matter of personal choices as well. So always make sure you're cautious and taking the right precautions.

Reviewed on 15 Mar 2024Read more

Anonymous

Master of Science in Computer Science - Batch of 2024

Offered by University of Southern California

3.1

Great but also expensive

Tips: As someone who is from Mumbai, moving to LA feels like a huge change. The city is huge but it is difficult to explore without a car. The people here are welcoming, and there are a lot of international students, especially from India. But it is expensive without a scholarship, and USC discontinued the Honours Scholarship programme so it is more difficult to fund your education now.

Likes (Quality of faculty): The faculty at USC is really good. In the courses that I took, the faculty had a thorough understanding of all the topics and were super friendly and welcoming during their office hours. Even if you aren't able to reach the professors, there are TAs who are also really helpful most of the time.

Dislikes (Value for money): Although USC is a good school, it is quite expensive. There are a lot of students in some courses, and for those courses, the quality drops. I believe other universities that are less expensive have the same level of courses and an equal number of opportunities for internship and full-time jobs.

Reviewed on 1 Mar 2024Read more

Anonymous

Master of Science in Computer Science - Batch of 2024

Offered by University of Southern California

4.2

Go with an open-mind to experience the best.

Tips: Very satisfied with my university, course and country. The first 2 months are the hardest but after that, you settle in and it only gets better. Do not create any opinions based on what seniors say, Experience everything and form your own opinions. Your masters experience depends on how you make it. Do not have preconceived notions.

Reviewed on 21 Feb 2024Read more

Anonymous

Master of Science in Electrical Engineering - Batch of 2024

Offered by University of Southern California

3.8

No complaints, great network for better opportunities.

Tips: Apply early for a chance at a scholarship. Culture is very open-minded but there are ethnic and religious events happening year-round. Extremely satisfied with my course, nothing to complain about. I am currently specializing in ML maybe a bit more practical courses could have been better.

Likes (Student Life): Great fun, lot of people to network with, strong alumni network. This creates a strong bond between people. I really liked the atmosphere which was present at the place. It is very open minded, people can be what they want, express themselves. And also you can still connected to your culture and tradition through various clubs

Dislikes (Internships): The job market was bad in 2023, thus finding an internship was bad. Otherwise, it has been fine. USC has a decent track record of students landing good internships. But 2023 was such a year that only 700 new tech jobs was created. That caused problems mainly.

Reviewed on 17 Feb 2024Read more

OMKAR VERMA Verified Icon

Master of Science in Electrical Engineering - Batch of 2024

Offered by University of Southern California

3.2

Expensive college, stressful course

Tips: You will have to be mentally strong before coming to the US, as it gets stressful at times. You have to do all things yourself like cooking, on-campus job, studies, finding full time employment. My course in VLSI is very stressful. It is fairly difficult and keeps you on your toes for at least 2 semesters. At the time of writing this review, markets are not that good, so finding a job is getting very difficult and stressful. I wish I had relevant experience before coming here.

Likes (Indian Food): In Los Angeles, there are numerous Indian restaurants. Some of them are decently priced and some are expensive, based on the ambiance. Generally, you can find good restaurants without any issues. As a reference, Chicken Biryani at a good restaurant typically ranges from USD 18 to USD 25. I try to save money by cooking my own food.

Dislikes (Permanent Immigration): The immigration backlog for Indians coming to this country is extensive. The expected time for permanent residency is more than 100 years, so it is not possible for permanent settlement. Also, opportunities in India are growing exponentially. I plan to go back after my studies. I would be living peacefully in my country without any daily stress of losing a job and having to leave the country.

Reviewed on 7 Feb 2024Read more

Anonymous

Master of Science in Electrical Engineering - Batch of 2024

Offered by University of Southern California

3.2

It is a good university but only if you can afford it.

Tips: You can consider joining this college only if you can manage the expenses. Avoid taking a loan, as it is not justified for this university, given that you are responsible for your placements, and there is always the possibility of a recession or layoffs in the country. It is advisable to keep expenses minimal. On-campus jobs are not very common but attainable.

Reviewed on 4 Feb 2024Read more

Anonymous

Master of Science in Computer Science - Batch of 2024

Offered by University of Southern California

3.1

The rich sporty college.

Tips: I feel that my university is expensive and because of the current job market, the investment was not worth it. Other than that, everything seemed fine. They encourage co-curricular activities. The environment here is very diverse and you can make good friends.

Likes (Quality of faculty): Professors over here are really knowledgeable. They know what they teach. They have office hours and encourage students to be interactive. PhD is something that professors here support. Overall I feel that it's great academically. That would be it.

Dislikes (Part time work): The number of students In USC is humongous, and the part-time job openings are relatively fewer. It's kind of hard to get a part-time on-campus job. I would recommend students to hunt for jobs at the lab. Even though it's difficult, it would be worth it.

Reviewed on 29 Jan 2024Read more

Kaushal Ganesh Binjola Verified Icon

Master of Science in Computer Science - Batch of 2025

Offered by University of Southern California

3.7

University of Southern California is safe choice.

Tips: The courses are heavy, and the university is quite academically oriented. It is also a very expensive university, so you should take courses that suit you well (these courses are competitive and difficult). It is also an expensive endeavour to live off campus, but there are great student housing and security measures like free Lyft, and security is provided by the university.

Likes (Student Life): There are many on-campus events for students. Other than that, there are hundreds of student-run clubs catering to any hobby you might have. The campus is pretty big as well brimming with things happening any time you go to campus. There is also an app for you to stay up to date with all events.

Dislikes (Safety): Los Angeles is notorious for being an unsafe city. There are constant reports of assault or robbery. But the college has noted this and has free Lyft and security patrol zones. Other than that, the public transport is shady, filled with people who are most probably high.

Reviewed on 21 Jan 2024Read more

Akshay Jain Verified Icon

Master of Science in Computer Science - Batch of 2024

Offered by University of Southern California

Exceptionally qualified teaching faculty.

Tips: Before joining any college in the US, students should be aware that they will struggle at some point. They will make bad decisions, lose track of time, don't get enough time to cook and might even get bad grades. However, they have to motivate and keep on trying. USC has taught me a lot and groomed my entire personality. This is a continuous learning process and it takes time to reach the goals set.

Likes (Quality of faculty): Most of the Computer Science faculty on campus are exceptionally qualified and willing to help students in every possible manner. They take student feedback into consideration and offer make-up assignments as well. Teaching methodology involves theory + practical application with a focus on clearing fundamentals. Classes are fun but that depends upon student interest. The teaching faculty is diverse and understanding.

Dislikes (Safety): USC has partnered with DPS (Depth. Of Public Safety, under LAPD) to ensure patrolling of areas around the campus during night time. There are security personnel (USC Yellow Jackets) placed at strategic locations to monitor the area. However, students sometimes face incidents related to cycle theft, burglary, fondling, etc. due to negligence and the homeless population around the area.

Reviewed on 2 Jan 2024Read more

Abhimanyu Sharma Verified Icon

BA in Cinema and Media Studies - Batch of 2021

Offered by University of Southern California

Excellent faculty at the film school.

Tips: There is a culture shock for sure, despite assuming that I know everything cause I saw all the TV shows so couldn't be more wrong. The film course is under the school of cinematic arts, which is known to be quite competitive. The faculty of the film school includes renowned names in the industry, and they train you to keep up with the industry standard.

Likes (Student Life): There are clubs, societies, and networking for everyone if you seek it out. It is centrally located so you have access to various necessities and leisure. They have sports facilities for those that are inclined towards that. I joined several clubs and ended up meeting a lot of like-minded people, which definitely helps in adjusting to a new country.

Dislikes (Permanent Immigration): Permanent immigration options are easier for STEM majors, although there are plenty of options for other fields as well all across the spectrum. I personally wanted to get back to India and pursue filmmaking in Bombay, although if you network well enough, there are collaborative opportunities that you can pursue with other international students.

Reviewed on 9 Apr 2023Read more

Lasya Vadapalli Verified Icon

Master of Science in Computer Science - Batch of 2022

Offered by University of Southern California

2.2

USC is very expensive, try public universities.

Tips: USC is very expensive. Apart from that, the university boosts a number of labs which provide ample research opportunities. The student population is very diverse. It also has a huge Indian population. Courses are difficult to register for because of the large class size.

Likes (Public transportation): I found public transport non-reliable due to erratic schedule and it is not very safe. The campus shuttle is not very frequent. Most students use personal means to travel to the campus. Hence, it is important that you stay close to the campus.

Dislikes (Internships): We received very limited help from the university. The Office of International Services (OIS) sometimes does not provide enough support to international students. The career services do not provide personalized help. The career fairs are also not that great.

Reviewed on 21 Mar 2023Read more

Astha Tewatia Verified Icon

MS in Pharmaceutical Sciences - Batch of 2024

Offered by University of Southern California

3.8

Mental peace and health are given importance at University of Southern California

Tips: Students should not get intimidated by the fee expenses. They should be willing for hard-core multitasking and should be at their best in time management. If not, they will miss out on some serious opportunities organized by the university for students. Students should be willing to come out of their comfort zone and should actively participate in activities for making the most of this university.

Likes (Quality of faculty): The quality of faculty is 5/5. They make your efforts count in every possible manner. It is very easy to reach out to the professors and they are always willing to help students out of their domain as well. Mental peace and health are given importance. Professors are always ready to listen to students which is all that an international student needs sometimes.

Dislikes (Safety): Safety in Los Angeles has been quite an issue for students over here. Public transportation is not the first option for many students when traveling alone. I have witnessed incidents where safety of people in LA is compromised. Homelessness is a major concern over here.

Reviewed on 28 Dec 2022Read more

Parul Gupta Verified Icon

Master of Science in Computer Science - Batch of 2021

Offered by University of Southern California

3.8

USC rocks! One should take admission here.

Tips: Hard work is the key and try to connect with Alumni and get suggestions for subjects. Prepare LeetCode for technical interviews. Talk to the professors before getting enrolled in a subject regarding which you are doubtful, as every course has its own fees and structure.

Likes (Safety): The university has its own team to take care of it. They have free Lyft app for certain areas and cruise availability for students. They have security people in the campus to watch over students' activities during off hours and at nights, they make sure that nothing wrong happens.

Dislikes (Value for money): Other cheaper universities can provide the same experience and better education in some subjects. Also, other universities might have more flexible syllabus to do what you want in a particular field. Assignments are pretty hectic for some courses.

Reviewed on 24 Aug 2021Read more

Anonymous

Master of Science in Computer Engineering - Batch of 2018

Offered by University of Southern California

4.5

University of Southern California- A great school with great spirit.

Tips: Perhaps the biggest cultural shock was the variety of choices in the grocery stores. Plus, by default, most of the food items have added sugar, so I had to make sure to read the fine print to choose the ones that did not. I'm very satisfied with the university and the course. I was funded by a research project for my PhD program. It provided tuition and a stipend of around $2500 per month (it is now increased due to inflation). Also, my advice to the incoming student is to explore the campus, sports, college activities, and clubs to the fullest. Do not be stuck in just the academic bubble because US university experiences are very enriching and can have a tangible impact on your personality as well as your career.

Dislikes (Indian Food): Just like most US cities except for cities like Texas, NJ, etc, Indian food restaurants are a hit or a miss. Even if you find a good restaurant, they are expensive too because it's LA. So I prefer cooking or on days I'm extremely busy, I rely on sandwiches/soups which are healthier swaps. But LA is a foodie's paradise. So there are many options to explore especially Mexican food so I personally never missed Indian food.

Reviewed on 23 Sep 2024Read more

Anonymous

Master of Science in Computer Science - Batch of 2024

Offered by University of Southern California

2.5

USC is a decent university

Tips: The neighborhood the university is located in is not the safest, so you will have a tough time adjusting here. It is not the prettiest either and a far cry from the ideas that were fed to you about LA. There are no scholarships offered and getting a job on campus too is very hard given the high demand. There are better locations and universities in the US that would serve better to people who are new to the US.

Likes (Student Life): There are quite a few student clubs and events happening on campus but you need to be the one to track them and put in the effort to attend them. They aren't always the most productive but you do enjoy yourself. The masters courses are usually late in the day so it does give you time to participate in other activities early in the day.

Dislikes (Public transportation): You have free lyft around campus. You also are given a public transport pass so it's decent that way but not the most convenient or safe. But if you need to go anywhere far you will need to buy a car or use Uber which can get quite expensive. On campus, many students just use a cycle.

Reviewed on 8 Feb 2024Read more

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