Arizona State University Vs University of Southern California: Compare Fees, Placement, Reviews
Compare Arizona State University Vs University of Southern California based on their rankings, fees, programs, acceptance rate, admission requirements, placements, and more. Analyze Arizona State University Vs University of Southern California on various parameters to choose the right university for International students.
Compare Arizona State University Vs University of Southern California based on their rankings, fees, programs, acceptance rate, admission requirements, placements, and more. Analyze Arizona State University Vs University of Southern California on various parameters to choose the right university for International students.
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Arizona State University V/s University of Southern CaliforniaStudent Ratings
Rating of colleges
4/5
98 Verified Reviews
3.6 Internships- 3.6 Part time work
- 3.9 Post study jobs
- 4.2 Quality of faculty
- 4.3 Student Life
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3.6/5
17 Verified Reviews- 3.4 Internships
- 3.5 Part time work
- 3.5 Post study jobs
- 4.4 Quality of faculty
- 4.3 Student Life
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Arizona State University V/s University of Southern CaliforniaCourse Comparison
5 Popular courses in colleges
Arizona State University V/s University of Southern California MS
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Arizona State University V/s University of Southern California M.A.
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Arizona State University V/s University of Southern California MBA/PGDM
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Arizona State University V/s University of Southern California B.E. / B.Tech
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Arizona State University V/s University of Southern California B.Sc.
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Other courses
- B.A. (88 courses)
- BBA (53 courses)
- PG Certificate (80 courses)
- M.Arch (6 courses)
- B.J.M.C. (13 courses)
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- B.A. (48 courses)
- BBA (7 courses)
- PG Certificate (40 courses)
- M.Arch (6 courses)
- B.J.M.C. (7 courses)
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Arizona State University V/s University of Southern CaliforniaCollege Comparison
About College
Established Year
1885
Number of Campus
1
Number of Scholarships
-/-
Campus Size
700 Acres
Accepted Exams
TOEFL+3 More
Established Year
1880
Number of Campus
2
Number of Scholarships
-/-
Campus Size
229 Acres
Accepted Exams
TOEFL+3 More
Established Year
-/-
Number of Campus
-/-
Number of Scholarships
-/-
Campus Size
-/-
Accepted Exams
-/-
Arizona State University V/s University of Southern CaliforniaCampus Comparison
Campus videos & images
Campus Tour
International Students
Living on campus
Business School
Study Graduate Programs at ASU
Campus Building
Campus Old Building
Mccord Hall
College of Nursing
Classroom
Hayden Library
Library
Housing
Room
Dining Hall
Barrett Dining Hall
Meeting Room
Student success centre
Lecture Hall
Barrett Honors college
Music Building
Aerial View of Campus#1. University Park Campus
#1. University Park Campus
#2. Health Sciences Campus
USC Village: A Visual Tour
USC-India: Partner The Future
Aerial View
Aerial View
USC campus
USC Great Lawn
USC Cromwell Field
Classroom
Classroom
McCarthy Honors College
USC Village Dinning Hall
BuildingGet a detailed campus view, add a college
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
Good Quality of Life- High living standards, comprehensive healthcare, and excellent infra
- Access to diverse recreational activities and and natural attractions
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
Get a detailed view about the country. Add a college!
Student’s views on campus
Views on Arizona State University campus
A
Anonymous
Master of Science in Technical Communication - Batch of 2026
3.7
Well organized and welcoming.
Tips: The university is massive so there is lot of walking around campus. Everything is well organised here and that makes learning a lot more straightforward. Professors are well known in their industries and scholarships are available just inquire about the procedure in advance. Part time jobs are few and they pay around 10 to 15 USD per hour if you get one on campus. Downtown Temper is a fun place to hang out.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 1850
Prepping time for classes31 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 102950
Sanchit Gupta
Masters of Global Management (MGM) - Batch of 2026
4.1
Transitioning and growth oriented journey.
Tips: The biggest problem for me was food since I am a vegetarian. It took time to transition but then I started cooking for myself and now it's normal. I got a scholarship and applying for it was a necessary part of the application process. In terms of course and University, this feels like a perfect fit for me. But in terms of the country, it is stressful and uncertain, which makes it less than desirable.
Likes (Safety): ASU has its own police department and emergency buttons are installed everywhere on the campus. Police patrols are very frequent and Temper, being a small town, doesn't have a high crime rate. We also get updates about crime around the university through email notifications.
Dislikes (Permanent Immigration): The government is cracking down on the immigration system and making it harder than it already is to settle here in the US. I am hoping it will get better. The only thing that is positive is that after getting education from the US, there are a lot of options not just in the US but around the world.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 600
Prepping time for classes18 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 80000
A
Anonymous
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science - Batch of 2027
3.5
It is a great experience.
Tips: One thing you should know is that Arizona's heat is too much. When you arrive, get ready to become an omelette. But it's a really great experience studying at ASU. Professors are very hill and easy-going. One tip I can give is people you meet on your orientation day are very crucial for your social life.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 600
Prepping time for classes25 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD
M
Mrudula Eluri
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science - Batch of 2026
4.5
Expensive, fun and motivating.
Tips: There were many cultural shifts, like the traffic rules, late night life. In India, on eclipse day, mom says not to see the moon, but here everyone loves to see the moon on that day. I got the new American University scholarship, which is actually common for the Bachelor's students.
Likes (Quality of faculty): Faculty is really cool and holds office hours for students whenever possible. Teaching methodology is mostly them just making us understand what the concept is and explaining it. It depends on the students, as most of the teaching is independent and requires students to do the research to find better tools for coding. They help us understand the concept in depth but the process is very independent and depends on students. To be honest, there will be no spoon feeding like in India.
Dislikes (Value for money): I don't actually think the tuition fee is justified for my course. I feel like I am paying more even after getting the scholarship. Compared with the other universities where my friends are currently studying. It would be better if there were more scholarship options available for international students.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 550
Prepping time for classes15 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD
A
Anonymous
Bachelor of Science in Psychology - Batch of 2026
3.3
It is pretty expensive and not that worth it.
Tips: The tuition is high and it increases by 1000 dollars almost every year and the scholarships for international students is less or not available. There are many Indian students, so you don't feel too alienated. The classes are a bit outdated, like the skills taught.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 700
Prepping time for classes20 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD
P
Pradyumna Mandawkar
MS in Information Technology - Batch of 2026
3.8
My college is good enough, providing a lot of opportunities to students, it is good in every aspect.
Tips: Students should be aware of the fees, scholarships, weather, post-graduation opportunities, and environment. Also, compare it with other universities. Talk and connect with people who have been to this university before. Plan your focus area before arriving.
Likes (Student Life): The environment is quite friendly on the campus. As the campus area is quite beautiful, you can spend your whole day on campus. There are many events organised by many clubs, like cultural events for international students, Sports games, etc. There are various hiking, swimming, dance, cultural, and international clubs based in the respective country.
Dislikes (Value for money): I think it's quite expensive, but the education and the infrastructure of the university are good. So it totally depends on us how we thrive in this environment, as competition is everywhere. Although for the international students the fees would be quite expensive.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 700
Prepping time for classes25 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 85000
A
Anonymous
Applied Ethics (Biomedical and Health Ethics), MA - Batch of 2026
3.4
Balancing studies, work and immigration hurdles at ASU.
Tips: Students must apply for on-campus jobs, which are available on portals so that they can find it easy to get on-campus jobs and which will help them to cover their expenses, and also try to apply for more and more scholarship options. Studying at this university is quite good, but still a lot of competition. As an international student, we have to face the fact that here at ASU there is a huge quantity of international students.
Likes (Public transportation): The one thing I like most in Tempe, in the state of Arizona, is the Orbit buses. We 70% travel through this shuttle service, which is free for everyone, whether you're a student or outside and if we talk about paid transportation service, it's quite easy and available for almost every and is cheap.
Dislikes (Permanent Immigration): If we looked at current Immigration condition 2025 and lawns are coming out as like for H1b companies will have to pay 100,000$, so working here and setting quietly getting difficult and its unpredictable any thing can happen any time and on other hand for permanent residence que is very long candidate will have to wait like 10 to 15 or may be more years so its quitely hard to get permanent residence.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 800
Prepping time for classes21 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 80000
A
Anonymous
Master of Science in Information Technology - Batch of 2026
4.9
Arizona State University is a gateway to success for all international students.
Tips: Be prepared for extreme heat, as it is very hot here in Arizona. There are a few communities where you can live with Indians. Start applying for part-time jobs and scholarships as soon as you get access to the Arizona State University portals, and be open to cultural shifts and networking.
Likes (Safety): Since the U. S. offers strong opportunities for permanent settlement with good career prospects. If given the chance, I would like to settle here permanently, as it aligns with my long-term professional and personal goals.
Dislikes (Indian Food): While Indian restaurants are available, they can be a bit pricey compared to home-cooked meals. There are both casual dining and fine-dining options, but I usually prefer cooking myself as it's healthier and more economical. That's why Arizona State University is surrounded by Indian restaurants.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 700
Prepping time for classes9 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 95425
R
Razak Shaik
MBA/MS in Industrial Engineering - Batch of 2024
3.8
The college has a good academic structure and curriculum.
Tips: After coming here, especially to this university and city, I changed a lot personally and professionally. My food habits changed; in India, I never went a day without rice or Indian curries, but here, I became accustomed to American food. My way of doing assignments changed; it became much easier. My communication and social skills improved, and I became more easy-going and adaptable. I didn't avail any scholarships, but I had a part-time on-campus job where I learned the value of labour; I was working as a dishwasher at the campus dining hall. While I'm not fully satisfied with how my career went, I personally learned and evolved a lot. Thanks to the good and bad people in my life, and the people who supported me through thick and thin.
Likes (Public transportation): There are many free buses to and from college, from student housing and the surrounding areas. There are also minimal-cost buses for longer routes, along with metro trains and bus passes, making it a good transportation system. I reduced my expenses considerably because of this and enjoyed travelling around the city with friends using the buses.
Dislikes (Value for money): My total fees are around 60,000 dollars. While the college is well-rated and has a good academic structure and curriculum, the courses are not specialised or designed for hands-on work. Many things are purely mathematical rather than practical or job-oriented. Some courses, like systems engineering, financial engineering, production systems, and stochastic, are good, but most end with mathematical data. I barely learned skills related to my current job; in fact, other non-core courses taught me more than the core courses. If you are interested in quality or the analyst side of industrial engineering, this college is great, but it lacks hands-on experience, and the projects are not hands-on either. There are many positives, but for the money we are putting in, it could be much better.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 1000
Prepping time for classes15 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 71325
A
Anonymous
Master of Science in Graphic Information Technology - Batch of 2025
3.8
Welcoming and friendly place.
Tips: The campus is large, so be prepared for a lot of walking to get to classes, and the location is somewhat rural. The student body is very close-knit. The professors are dedicated and well-known in their fields. Studying here will give you a sense of community, which I really appreciated.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 2875
Prepping time for classes36 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 88300
A
Anonymous
Master of Science in Information Technology - Batch of 2025
4
Campus of growth and opportunities.
Tips: Moving away from home is a challenge for everyone. As an Indian, I experienced a cultural shift, as there are no Indian festivals celebrated, and being away from family makes it difficult to maintain my own cultural identity. However, ASU has clubs and organisations that celebrate festivals from all cultures.
Likes (Public transportation): Temper, Arizona in the United States is one of the best town with excellent public transportation. It is very rare in the United States. It has public buses and metro rail which can be used right from the doorstep. Also, the town has Valley metro buses and street car which provides ride without any charges.
Dislikes (Indian Food): Since 2024, part-time job opportunities on campus have decreased, mainly due to budget cuts. Many students have lost their part-time positions, and pay for existing workers has not increased significantly. New workers also receive lower hourly wages. The limited number of jobs is a result of increased student numbers and fewer available positions.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 700
Prepping time for classes30 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 75000
A
Anonymous
Master of Science in Engineering in Electrical Engineering - Batch of 2027
3.7
Try not to miss out the orientation.
Tips: My experience here has been full of trials and errors. I missed the orientation, and I quit my meal plan after a week. But I can tell you this: make the most of your time here. It doesn't make sense to come here without financial aid or scholarships, but if you must, make sure to befriend at least two professors who will help you navigate the work environment and your course-related dilemmas. Learn to cook and invest in a bike.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 2350
Prepping time for classes32 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 92925
A
Anonymous
Master of Computer Science - Cybersecurity - Batch of 2026
3.9
ASU's tech programs are beyond massive.
Tips: ASU's tech programs are beyond massive, and you are sure to face a lot of competition as well as witness a lot of passion and intelligence. For me, classes have been about learning the course as well as about myself. Phoenix is a super hot place to live in and keep a digital calendar, because assignments pile up really fast. Be driven throughout and make sure all your paperwork is absolutely impeccable.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 2775
Prepping time for classes31 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 89075
A
Anonymous
Master of Computer Science -Big Data Systems - Batch of 2026
3.9
Practical learning and global exposure with strong career outcomes.
Tips: Students should be prepared for a fast-paced curriculum and independent learning. The cultural shift includes open class discussions and team-based work. Transitioning was smooth with support from peers. I didn't receive a scholarship, as most are merit-based and limited.
Dislikes (Part time work): ASU offers a solid MS in CS and Big Data Engineering programme with strong faculty and industry-aligned curriculum. On-campus part-time jobs are limited and competitive, off-campus work is restricted. Balancing work and academics is manageable with planning. Faculty are diverse, approachable, and focus on practical learning. Living costs average around 5000 dollars/month. Post-graduation salaries are promising. The experience involves cultural adjustment but supports strong career growth.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 3500
Prepping time for classes17 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD
A
Anonymous
Master of Science in Information Technology - Batch of 2026
4
If you want to experience the American university life, then this is the right place.
Tips: If you're interested in studying in Arizona, be aware that extreme summers can occur, reaching temperatures as high as 50 degrees. If you have a CGPA of 8.5 or higher, you can apply for a scholarship worth up to 6,000 per year. Otherwise, you can still apply for a fellowship worth up to 1,000 annually. If you want to work part-time while studying, you should try to apply as soon as you get your visa. The college has its own buses to travel from one campus to another, which is a plus. I feel safe living in the city because it's a college town. The transportation is free throughout the city, which is great. I’m happy there are a lot of grocery stores and stores that sell products from different countries in Tempe.
Dislikes (Internships): The job market is the only thing that is negative about internships at this college. Aside from that, students do have opportunities for good internships here. The alumni network is amazing. Plus, the college runs a ton of events that connect students with alumni, and they help students build resumes with guidance from people already working in the fields that the students are interested in.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 1075
Prepping time for classes30 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 85975
A
Anonymous
Master of Arts in Political Psychology - Batch of 2025
3.8
Pretty good place to learn, grow and build connections.
Tips: ASU is a very student-friendly and global campus. You are bound to have interactions with all sorts of people who ultimately contribute to your university experience. Located in a comparatively small town, ASU has its own charm, especially if you are fond of exploring and trekking-related activities. Some of the alumni have become quite famous as well, which has further added value to studying here. There are over 100 clubs and organisations for you to further explore your hobbies and skills.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 3775
Prepping time for classes30 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 71325
A
Anonymous
Master of Arts in Sociology - Batch of 2025
3.4
Great faculty who have contributed extensively to science and research.
Tips: If you are someone passionate about research and innovation, ASU is a pretty good option. The acceptance rate is high and it is comparatively easier to get some kind of financial aid/scholarship here as compared to some other colleges in the United States. Moreover, the faculty here is truly prestigious and includes several notable figures who have contributed extensively to science and research and getting to learn under them has been a remarkable experience. The classes are highly engaging and extremely knowledgeable. Public transportation is easy, convenient and affordable. Overall, I am satisfied with the course, university and the country.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 3400
Prepping time for classes30 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD
A
Anonymous
Master of Arts in Communication - Batch of 2026
4
Fulfilling experience with highly-knowledgeable faculty.
Tips: I was initially both nervous and excited but joining this university has given me a sense of community as well as several opportunities contributing to my growth. There are several scholarships available and the sports scholarships here are very popular as well. Arizona is located in the countryside so a lot of your socialising and exploring will be confined within the campus which is a drawback. There are many on-campus events that you can participate in and build connections. There are student communities in case you have difficulties adjusting. Overall, I am satisfied with my experiences.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 2775
Prepping time for classes33 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 75175
A
Ashwith Poojary
MS in Robotics and Autonomous Systems (Artificial intelligence) - Batch of 2026
4.2
A great college with lots of opportunities.
Tips: While applying to this university, you are by default eligible for the NAMU scholarship. If you are awarded any, then it will be mentioned in your offer letter. As far as I know, most people who scored above 9.0 CGPA received a scholarship. Other than that, the courses are diverse and you get to choose from a ton of courses from great professors. One thing is at the end of each semester, you'll need to hustle to grab your desired classes as the demand is huge. Overall, I am quite satisfied with mu experiences.
Likes (Public transportation): Most public transport is free of cost and bus availability is also pretty good with every bus within 15 minutes interval. The paid ones are also quite affordable with only $2 for any distance you travel. The buses even have a cycle track so you can loads your cycle whenever you are tired.
Dislikes (Indian Food): I prefer to cook at home because very few Indian restaurants serve authentic Indian food. Even when I request spicy food, the restaurants tend to make it sweet. Also, it is difficult to find Indian ingredients, so it is better to bring your own when you come here.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 700
Prepping time for classes20 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 80000
M
Manasi Rajan Variar
MS in Data Science, Analytics and Engineering - Batch of 2026
3.5
Arizona State University gives all you want - great faculty and strong academics.
Tips: Before joining this college, students should know they can apply for part-time or on-campus jobs from India before coming to the US. They should also contact as many professors as possible for grading, teaching assistant, or research assistant positions. If students have a CGPA of 9.0 or higher, they may be eligible for the NAMU scholarship. Finally, students shouldn't be concerned about a cultural shift, as there are many Indian students and organizations on campus.
Likes (Student Life): There are so many Indian Masters students with whom we can enjoy. There are many Asian student clubs where various events are conducted, like Diwali and Ganpati celebrations. I used to participate in all Indian events. Don't miss the food here, as it is usually amazing.
Dislikes (Safety): There are some robbery issues near campus, but I didn't have any experience. There is an alarm-based app and mail system that will notify students and faculty if any dangerous issues occur. Other than that, the police here are really helpful and always available.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 650
Prepping time for classes10 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD
Views on University of Southern California campus
A
Anonymous
M.A in Occupational Therapy - Batch of 2026
Offered by University of Southern California
4
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.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 2400
Prepping time for classes32 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 73650
A
Abhinav Gupta
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.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 1050
Prepping time for classes15 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 110000
A
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.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 4575
Prepping time for classes29 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 89075
G
Ganpati Goel
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.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 1000
Prepping time for classes30 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 85000
A
Agraj Khare
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.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 1425
Prepping time for classes35 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD
A
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.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 1200
Prepping time for classes25 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 100025
A
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.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 1800
Prepping time for classes30 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD
A
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.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 1225
Prepping time for classes30 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 100750
O
OMKAR VERMA
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.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 950
Prepping time for classes40 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 120000
A
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.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 1325
Prepping time for classes30 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 85225
A
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.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 1200
Prepping time for classes25 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 90000
K
Kaushal Ganesh Binjola
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.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 1000
Prepping time for classes30 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD
A
Akshay Jain
Master of Science in Computer Science - Batch of 2024
Offered by University of Southern California
4
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.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 100
Prepping time for classes25 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 90000
A
Abhimanyu Sharma
BA in Cinema and Media Studies - Batch of 2021
Offered by University of Southern California
4
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.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 1223
Prepping time for classes17 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD
L
Lasya Vadapalli
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.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 1170
Prepping time for classes20 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 129176
A
Astha Tewatia
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.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 904
Prepping time for classes10 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD
P
Parul Gupta
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.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 1194
Prepping time for classes34 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 101667
A
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.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 1800
Prepping time for classes50 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 13020
A
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.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 1550
Prepping time for classes30 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 112975
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