Imperial College London Vs University of Southern California: Compare Fees, Placement, Reviews
Compare Imperial College London Vs University of Southern California based on their rankings, fees, programs, acceptance rate, admission requirements, placements, and more. Analyze Imperial College London Vs University of Southern California on various parameters to choose the right university for International students.
Compare Imperial College London Vs University of Southern California based on their rankings, fees, programs, acceptance rate, admission requirements, placements, and more. Analyze Imperial College London Vs University of Southern California on various parameters to choose the right university for International students.
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Imperial College London V/s University of Southern CaliforniaStudent Ratings
Rating of colleges
4.1/5
29 Verified Reviews
3.9 Internships- 3.4 Part time work
- 3.8 Post study jobs
- 4.7 Quality of faculty
- 4.6 Student Life
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3.6/5
19 Verified Reviews- 3.4 Internships
- 3.5 Part time work
- 3.6 Post study jobs
- 4.4 Quality of faculty
- 4.3 Student Life
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Imperial College London V/s University of Southern CaliforniaCourse Comparison
5 Popular courses in colleges
Imperial College London V/s University of Southern California MBA/PGDM
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Imperial College London V/s University of Southern California B.E. / B.Tech
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Imperial College London V/s University of Southern California B.Sc.
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Imperial College London V/s University of Southern California MPH
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Imperial College London V/s University of Southern California BBA
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Other courses
- M.Sc. (183 courses)
- MBBS (2 courses)
- M.A. (1 course)
- Executive MBA/PGDM (1 course)
- Others PG (1 course)
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- M.A. (14 courses)
- Executive MBA/PGDM (2 courses)
- Others PG (7 courses)
- B.A. (48 courses)
- PG Diploma (1 course)
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Imperial College London V/s University of Southern CaliforniaCollege Comparison
About College
Established Year
1907
Number of Campus
1
Number of Scholarships
-/-
Campus Size
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Accepted Exams
TOEFL+5 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
-/-
Imperial College London V/s University of Southern CaliforniaCampus Comparison
Campus videos & images
Hammersmith Building
Campus building1
Campus building2
Selkirk Hall
Accommodation
Classroom
Convocation
Classroom1
Wolfson Restaurant
Institute of Biomedical engineering
Lecture theatres
Library
Accommodation Social Area#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 UK
Reputed Higher Education
Globally recognized degrees and top ranking colleges- Cutting-edge research opportunities with good number of course options
Campus Culture and Safety- Robust safety measures
- Vibrant student life and inclusive environment
Better Quality of Life- Accessible healthcare and public services in UK for students.
- Abundant cultural experiences enhance overall lifestyle for Indians.
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 Imperial College London campus
A
Aarnav Pathak
MSc Business Analytics - Batch of 2025
4.8
Opportunities exist, but it can be difficult to find the right one.
Tips: There is a transition challenge for people travelling abroad for the first time. I got accustomed to it easily. I didn’t avail any scholarship and unless you have achieved a lot, it’s difficult for a general student. I am pretty satisfied with the uni, course and country. The only issue right now is getting a job. Though Business Analysts are in demand, if you are diligent and hard working, you can definitely get a job. It’s a bit hard for other courses.
Likes (Value for money): Imperial, even though it is an expensive university, will support you forever. From job hunting, to the alumni network to its library and journals access. It gives you a lot. The fees could be a bit less but this ensures that you are committed to the journey. It’s the money you bet on yourselves, higher the stakes, the better the reward.
Dislikes (Part time work): There are many on and off campus part time opportunities but I would not recommend them. The student should focus on the academics and job application to start with followed by social activities, networking and travel. If you are not compromising on studies and job applications and are okay to limit your social activities, then go for it. It just might make you overwork which would affect the important areas on your priority list.
Total Monthly ExpensePound 2000
Prepping time for classes25 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryPound 40000
A
Aryan Shaw
MSc Management - Batch of 2025
3.6
Inclusive and academically oriented.
Tips: Everyone is at the top of their game. You might feel intimidated at first, but things will ease out over time. Honestly, for me it was what I expected. My lifestyle became better but nothing that was a culture shock to me.
I didn't get any scholarships.
Academically, it'll put you in the right place but it doesn't really translate into an ocean of job opportunities within the country.
Likes (Student Life): Case-based subjects require group exercise so the majority of my day was spent working in groups on projects. The best part is the world class facilities such as gyms, cafes, etc. Open to relax after a heavy business exercise. You can also book individual rooms in the business school for relaxing/meetings.
Cultural events such as the Winter Ball and Summer Ball and business events. Networking is organised by Imperial. My participation in cultural events was limited. From business clubs to art/theatre clubs, you can find everything on campus.
Dislikes (Permanent Immigration): 20% at max. ILR has recently been increased from 5 to 10 years. The PSW has also been reduced from 24 months to 18 months under the Starmer-led government. The intent of this is clearly visible in corporate job applications as well. The rejection turnaround times have reduced to 24 hours if you require a visa in future to work in the UK.
I won't permanently shift here. This is because of the rising taxes and safety concerns.
Total Monthly ExpensePound 1240
Prepping time for classes15 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryPound 30000
H
Halima Afroz Lari
MSc International Management - Batch of 2025
5
Challenging, transformative and definitely worth it.
Tips: Come prepared to be challenged- academically, socially and personally. Imperial is fast paced and the workload is intense but that's exactly what makes it worth it. Be ready to engage deeply with your cohort as the majority of the assignments are group based and collaboration is at the heart of the experience.
Total Monthly ExpensePound 2500
Prepping time for classes15 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryPound 55000
P
Param Jain
MSc Finance & Accounting - Batch of 2025
3.8
Great location and facilities.
Tips: This college is mainly for rich brats; half of the Indian crowd will go back to India, mind this. Be practical and be mindful of this. The brand name is great, but that will not help in the job search. Don't come to this university if you are taking an education loan.
Likes (Public transportation): Near South Keng, the line is always working never faced an issue in that. Transport is expensive because the majority of the classes are in peak hours and that means no student discount whatsoever. The campus is in the centre of London so no issues in that.
Dislikes (Part time work): Imperial is filled with the richest people; no one even considered part time work. On campus, there are jobs. I haven't seen any Master's student woring there. Part time if done is manageable but classes were almost every day.
Total Monthly ExpensePound 1250
Prepping time for classes10 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryPound 42000
Y
Yukta Sajnani
MSc Economics & Strategy for Business - Batch of 2025
4.1
Realistically optimistic experiences.
Tips: The college is one of the best that they could pick. Just look at the curriculum closely before deciding on which course to apply for. Keep in mind the immigration policies as they gravely impact your permanent settlement probability. Be ready for sleepless nights and too much caffeine. The earlier you apply, the better your chances of getting in.
Likes (Quality of faculty): The faculty members are best at what they teach. The course is extremely fast-paced but the quality of the faculty is something one can never complain about. They are knowledgeable and attentive both. One of our modules was taught by the governor of the Central Bank of England so it doesn't get better than that.
Dislikes (Permanent Immigration): I did get a sponsored job there. However, the state and the regulations there have made it pretty difficult to find sponsored jobs. They are few and far between. It has nothing to do with Imperial per se. It is mainly attributed to the regulations enforced by the UK government and their frequently changing immigration policies.
Total Monthly ExpensePound 2050
Prepping time for classes35 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryPound 43000
S
Sai Sumitra Shankaranand Natesan
MSc Strategic Marketing - Batch of 2025
4
The job market is competitive so make sure to double check before joining.
Tips: There are scholarships and financial aid. Life abroad teaches you to live independently, support yourself and adapt to a culture which isn't your own which is an important takeaway. Don't surround yourself with what's familiar, as it defeats the purpose. It's very important when it comes to building yourself and exposing yourself to various mindsets that you surround yourself with global cohorts and friend groups. It is important to note that the value of a foreign education is derived from the effort you put into your work academically and professionally.
Likes (Student Life): There are always resources available, but it isn't spoon-fed which you tend to receive when doing your undergraduate degree. It is all about the effort you put in. University campuses are very student-friendly, clean, and disability-friendly. The faculty are attentive and approachable, usually with a wealth of knowledge and non-academic experience, which is ideal when coming to practical classroom sessions. There are many clubs which are hobby based or specialisation based, depending on your interest ranging from music, salsa, ballroom dancing, birdwatching, chess, theatre to consulting, trading, FMCG and so on. Budget-wise, food is affordable and a lot of students bring their own food and heat it up in designated areas. There's a student hub for most departments which serves as a communal space. If need be, the university offers part-time roles for interested students. Imperial focuses on diversity so your cohort is from all over the world and there is a host of events organised to celebrate all countries' Chinese New Year, with the latest. There is no feeling of exclusion and the environment is welcoming. Public transport, groceries, and accommodation usually occupy the biggest percentage of your expenditure since they're non-negotiable but it changes city to city with London being the most expensive. However, there are always student friendly discounts and alternatives when you do your research. I am entering the average values from a student perspective below for expenses, which range depending on your lifestyle, but this is the average. This is for London, so public transport would depend on factors like which zone you stay in and whether you use bus, tube, bike, car, or your own vehicle.
Dislikes (Permanent Immigration): The job market is competitive so you've got to double check and decide whether you plan on staying or going back to your own country. If you plan to stay, ensure you enroll to only the top-tier universities so it doesn't hinder your career opportunities. If you plan on going back, you may still want to consider only the top universities so it's worth the investment you put into it and you get some ROI from it. If your technical abilities are good and you have prior work experience, the UK is a good option for permanent president considering the markets you work with, the front-office roles and general career growth, especially in the MNC space. If you aren't too experienced, apply at the earliest and upskill yourself to exceed the minimum expectations of your industry of choice. Student life here is very good and the city is supportive of student-friendly options. It isn't unsafe if you are practical, but as a student, you have to go out of your way to ensure you get the best from your education since it's a lot more independent as compared to the resources provided by Indian universities, especially course-related research and job opportunities. All in all, you would do well if you come with work experience or possess high technical, quantitative/sector specific abilities. There are still a lot of qualitative factors you get from a foreign degree from a life perspective and living abroad which shape your exposure and mindset, so it's worth it.
Total Monthly ExpensePound 2700
Prepping time for classes15 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryPound 35000
R
Rohan S
MSc Finance & Accounting - Batch of 2024
3.4
Choose your course wisely.
Tips: Students stretch themselves too thin trying to make the most out of living abroad for the first time as well as leveraging all the opportunities and resources available at their university to up-skill themselves and also try to land a high paying job by applying to 100+ job postings a month. In addition to all these aspects of being a student, many people also take up part time jobs to support themselves. Very important for people to crystallise the reason why they chose the university and focus on achieving those goals. Go easy on yourselves and focus your energy on one, maybe two things that could potentially propel you towards what you want.
Dislikes (Value for money): All courses at Imperial College or any other college for that matter are expensive for international students and the job market across the world is quite competitive. If you think a fancy MSc degree is your ticket to success, you’re naive. Research well and come in with a feasible plan, success however you’d like to define it, will not fall on your lap just because you have a degree. I learnt that the hard way.
Total Monthly ExpensePound 1100
Prepping time for classes14 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryPound 35000
A
Anonymous
MSc Financial Technology - Batch of 2025
3.8
Amazing, well qualified, approachable, and friendly faculty.
Tips: Be prepared for a hectic schedule, academically rigorous experience. That said, there are lots of student led clubs and programmes which cater to almost everyone's interests. Amazing diversity on the campus, lots and lots of events happening every day.
Likes (Quality of faculty): Amazing, well qualified, approachable, and friendly faculty. Engage the audience very well, active class participation, novel ways of teaching, numerous class activities and structured but rigorous content. A diverse set of faculty members from very reputable institutions.
Total Monthly ExpensePound 1700
Prepping time for classes20 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryPound
S
Saumya Vig
MSc Strategic Marketing - Batch of 2025
4
A transformational Imperial experience.
Tips: I would say that I was extremely satisfied with my university course and the country. A few things that I would suggest a student should know before they join this college are that they should consider living in GradPad Woodlane Studios which is located inside Imperial White City campus and they have the option of running shuttle bus systems, every half an hour till 5 PM and that is for free. Also, the white campus is very homey. My accommodation was extremely friendly. The staff was amazing and I made some of my best friends there. I met them and the campus is extremely safe. It is full of like cameras around and there is 24 seven security and even the Imperial enterprise lab is available there scale space is another building which is home to a lot of business ventures, ideas and workshops and even some career affairs. The place is extremely beautiful and comfortable. Westfield Mall is like seven minutes of walk. There are Tesco and Starbucks which are just two minutes of walk and a lot of other departmental stores around. There is also a cafe which is literally on the ground floor of one of Imperial‘s buildings inside the campus and you can get student discounts there, and there are other grocery stores available in Westfield Mall. I highly recommend this place as it is safe, student-friendly and very comfortable to be in. Especially the accommodation will become a home to you because the receptionist and the staff there are extremely helpful and the common spaces are actually a lot of fun.
Likes (Value for money): Make time for yourself. You can learn languages from Imperial at a very low cost and it’s easier when you can stay consistent with someone teaching you in person, try different things while you’re in London, and you can become lazy. You can just not want to go outside your accommodation and be in the comfort of meeting friends, but explore the city. Go outside if you can make your own money and explore more places. There are so many beautiful places around London and other than that, I would say create a routine. Take care of your health and try to have as many cook as many meals as you can, and save money on that. London can be expensive, but take a work from home opportunities. Try tutoring children through platforms like explore, learning. Really treat this as one as a once in a lifetime opportunity and make goals, make targets for every month and just enjoy the ride because it’s one of the best memories. It’s honestly the best memories I have.
Dislikes (Part time work): I would suggest that if you want to work in the UK or in London, please start as soon as you can, and do not delay by more than three months. As soon as you can start. We want to wait and try and build a CV and then apply for jobs, but you can build your CV immediately by applying for internships and part-time, which are directly related to your job, and if you cannot find something, you should start applying for internships as soon as you start your course till the time you find one, you should try and do coffee chats and keep improving yourself and keep building your heart skills. Keep practising new tools, staying up-to-date with AI and the latest commercial knowledge and start doing passion projects or start writing online and creating a personal brand or start creating content on how your life is at Imperial and that two counts marketing yourself or taking up consistent courses on platforms like Coursera from leading universities.
Total Monthly ExpensePound 2200
Prepping time for classes17 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryPound 30000
A
Anonymous
MSc Economics & Strategy for Business - Batch of 2025
4.6
Strong academic rigor.
Tips: Imperial has a rigorous and fast paced environment that requires strong time management. You have to adapt to the diverse international cohort. The discussion style of teaching is like a cultural shift but is quite enriching. Feel free to look out for extracurriculars.
Total Monthly ExpensePound 1925
Prepping time for classes40 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryPound 42025
A
Anonymous
MSc Economics & Strategy for Business - Batch of 2022
4.4
Welcoming and friendly campus.
Tips: Be prepared to dive into the city life of London alongside the campus experience offered by Imperial. A wonderful atmosphere to learn on a personal and professional level and a journey of growth for students. Lots of guidance in applying for internships and mentorships.
The experienced careers guidance team helps to find opportunities perfect to build your profile that is best suited for the roles candidates are looking for and future prospects after graduation, too.
Dislikes (Safety): The city of London is unsafe. However, Imperial College does try to offer as many options to overcome these difficulties as possible.
They have numerous hotlines and safety measures but there are some pickpockets in London city, not necessarily close to the college but all through the city.
Total Monthly ExpensePound 3350
Prepping time for classes20 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryPound 40000
A
Anonymous
MSc Science Media Production - Batch of 2024
2.9
Great education, challenging timing.
Tips: I had watched a lot of videos on YouTube about life in London, so I didn't feel a complete cultural shock because I was better prepared. London is really expensive, and you need to manage your time well, handling household, cooking, laundry, keeping up with your assignments and still finding time to enjoy life in the city. I am really satisfied with the university, the course I chose and the country. However, one regret I have is that I came at the wrong time. The competition in the job market is extremely fierce right now. If you don't have prior experience in your field and are thinking of coming to the UK, you should think twice. That said, I don't regret studying at Imperial because the staff were very knowledgeable and the course curriculum and overall quality were top notch. I just feel that if I had come two or three years earlier, my situation might have been very different. The UK feels quite crowded at the moment and with the new rules and regulations introduced by the government, it's becoming tougher to live here. As a result, many people are considering moving back to their home countries.
Likes (Indian Food): I live in Imperial student accommodation, Griffon Studios near Clapham Junction. As a vegetarian it was quite difficult to find vegetarian food nearby so I used to travel to Wembley where there are many pure vegetarian restaurants and wide variety of Indian cuisine.
Dislikes (Part time work): My course commenced in September and all the part-time jobs within the college had already been taken by business school students as their course started in August. Doing a part-time job is manageable, but you need to manage your time well alongside assignments and projects. The average pay is minimum wage which increases by 1 pound every year. Currently, it is 12.21 per hour.
Total Monthly ExpensePound 1700
Prepping time for classes20 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryPound 26600
H
Hritika Vilas Daware
MSc Strategic Marketing - Batch of 2026
4
Intense, world class, and demanding.
Tips: Before joining students should know that this college is academically intense fast-paced and highly competitive. You need strong time management, self-discipline and comfort with ambiguity. There's a little hand-holding. The workload can feel overwhelming if you come in expecting a relaxed or overly social academic culture. The transition was challenging but manageable. Academically expectations were much higher than in my previous education. Culturally, the shift was real. Classrooms are diverse, discussions are direct and independence is assumed. Living in London also requires adjusting to high cost, a fast routine and a very individualistic lifestyle. I did not avail of a scholarship. Scholarships here are limited, highly competitive and often merit-based or need-based. Allowances, when available, usually cover partial tuition or fixed grants rather than full living expenses, so financial planning is critical. Satisfaction is high with the university and course due to global reputation, faculty quality and exposure. The country offers strong career opportunities but the cost of living and pressure can reduce day to day comfort. This experience plays off long-term but it's not an easy ride. Research course structure deeply before accepting. Budget realistically for London. Build academic and professional resilience early.
Total Monthly ExpensePound 1500
Prepping time for classes20 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryPound 35650
A
Anonymous
MSc Strategic Marketing - Batch of 2026
3.6
Diverse and helpful faculty.
Tips: It is a cultural shift from India for sure. Because here, we are not just in one of the most competitive colleges in the world, you are also cooking, travelling, cleaning etc. Basically, cut your time from that. I did not get any scholarships, but I am very satisfied with Imperial.
Likes (Quality of faculty): Faculty are very approachable; they have office hours and then you can email them wherever. The teaching method is very much a discussion, in class activities and discussions. The teaching faculty is very diverse, although I see a lot of American faculty members in my course, though.
Dislikes (Student Life): I spend my day between meetings with my syndicate group. Which is generally a group of 3-5 people from different countries. And projects most of the time. I enjoy the variety of food, infrastructure and library here. Events are networking with a lot of societies, etc.
Total Monthly ExpensePound 2050
Prepping time for classes20 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryPound 40000
A
Anonymous
MSc Health Data Analytics and Machine Learning - Batch of 2023
3
The professors are kind and are happy to help you out.
Tips: There are some cultural differences but it's very diverse so it's easy to find people from your country. There are very few scholarships but do apply so you dont miss them out. I really like the city and people. The university has a good brand name and might get you ahead if you use it wisely. Most importantly, never lose focus on why you joined the university.
Likes (Indian Food): There are so many Indian options in London. I barely felt like there isn’t something I was missing. I used to both cook myself and eat out. You can even find grocery stores dedicated to Indian food. You can get both North and South Indian food in London.
Dislikes (Value for money): I felt it was quite expensive. The faculty is very good but it’s a classroom course so I feel its a little overpriced. The professors are kind and are happy to help you out with any doubts. They are approachable and kind. The curriculum is fast paced but nicely structured.
Total Monthly ExpensePound 1500
Prepping time for classes20 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryPound
A
Anonymous
MSc Environmental Technology - Batch of 2024
4
Exhilarating learning experience.
Tips: It will be a very extensive academic experience with fast paced learning and skill development initiatives. This approach is often best to get us ready for the corporate world after we graduate. I'd say it teaches a lot about balancing things and prioritising what's important.
Likes (Quality of faculty): Faculty was world class including international lawyers global leaders as guest lecturers, as well as highly experienced professors with intensive academic experience. Truly a wonderful experience interacting and working with them on various projects and endeavours.
Dislikes (Safety): A lot of stabbing and mobile snatching incidents happened around my accommodation and university, which led me to rate 3 on safety. I had heard many of my friends mention certain areas and times when I shouldn't be out, and one of them even got robbed in an alleyway.
Total Monthly ExpensePound 2050
Prepping time for classes15 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryPound 28500
A
Anonymous
MSc Strategic Marketing - Batch of 2023
3.8
Challenging but worth it.
Tips: Be prepared to struggle. It's not all rosy as it seems on social media. Diverse backgrounds - you will not always see eye to eye.
There will be a great deal of personality development and you will learn life skills. New people, new cultures and new environments.
Likes (Public transportation): London Metro although expensive is really well connected. Quite safe depending on where you live but if you live anywhere in zone 1 and zone 2 should be alright. Even the bus system is easy to navigate and is much more cost effective as compared to train.
Dislikes (Internships): Unlike India where we have placement cells, in the UK, we have a career cell that helps with applications but doesn't have a set network that is open to internships. It's all about networking there. Even the internship Module students had to find themselves.
Total Monthly ExpensePound 1800
Prepping time for classes33 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryPound 31525
M
Mukshita Garabadu
MSc Management - Batch of 2024
3.7
Student life at Imperial is commendable.
Tips: I have definitely gained a lot of business knowledge, become a better professional and learnt a very good set of soft skills. There was a very high cultural shift but it only teaches you to be more inclusive and feel belong. I applied in the last round, so I couldn't avail any scholarships. I am highly satisfied with the education that I received and the brand recognition that Imperial has. This course really made me a skilled individual in the market. That being said, getting a job is completely dependent on the student and their profile and has nothing at all to do with the college.
Likes (Student Life): Student life at Imperial is commendable. There are so many study rooms with whiteboards, projectors, etc. In business school specifically for IBS Master's students. You will have privacy while studying. Also, faculty quality is great. You will have ample opportunities to showcase your collaborative skills and improve your soft skills. All your lectures, assignments, and notes will be available online for easy reference. A 5-storied building for a library, where you will definitely find the academic related book you are searching for. Group work helps you get the best businesswoman out of yourself. Some assignments of core subjects really make you feel like you own a business and are making decisions for it, which also teaches you accountability. Quality education and absolutely worth your money if you are concerned only about education.
Dislikes (Post study jobs): The job market is very tough to crack. And college brand name matters but really less. If you don't have work experience, it is almost impossible to crack a skilled and relevant job. You have to compromise with an assistant or below level or sales job. But proper planning and rightful execution might land you a job of your dreams (very rare).
Total Monthly ExpensePound 1850
Prepping time for classes16 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryPound 35850
A
Anonymous
MSc Climate Change, Management and Finance - Batch of 2026
4
High pressure but high reward.
Tips: Students must know that Imperial is more rigorous and hectic than compared to any UK university, including Cambridge and Oxford.
The education system is very different from India. Imperial is much more practical, competitive and requires actual hard work. If you are not ready for a rigorous life and prefer a chill and party life, maybe choose UCL or other less competitive universities.
Depends on courses as well; management courses like MIM have a more chill schedule compared to more technical STEM courses.
Likes (Quality of faculty): My professors are world famous scientists and economists. They are best in their field and often even work with the UN, the Government and big companies. I have never seen so many great professors in my life. The education is even better than I expected.
Dislikes (Part time work): Doing part-time with the Imperial schedule is next to impossible. We have classes every day, sometimes till 7 PM as well. Only people who can do part-time work while at Imperial are MIM students, as their course is less challenging. Compared to other UK universities, which only have classes twice a week, we have classes every day and sometimes events on weekends as well.
Total Monthly ExpensePound 3350
Prepping time for classes50 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryPound 62200
L
Lakshay Kaushal
MSc Management - Batch of 2023
4.2
Stepping beyond comfort: A memorable year at Imperial.
Tips: The environment at college is really fast paced and 1 year of Master's can go really fast. It's important that students come prepared with what they want to do during their time here and manage their time well. There is some cultural shift initially but one gets used to it in a few months as the environment pushes you outside the comfort zone. One needs to adapt and be flexible to the multi cultural environment. The exposure to students all across the globe helped to build my confidence, mindset, and independence. I didn't get any scholarships. I am very satisfied with everything as it helped me become a better person and gave me many opportunities to meet new people and work with them.
Likes (Indian Food): There are many Asian restaurants- Indian, Chinese, Thai around the South Kensington area but they are quite expensive. On average a meal could cost between GBP 20-30. There are superstores such as Tesco, Waitrose, Sainsbury's that have ready made Indian meals both veg & non veg options and the price is around GBP 3-4. I preferred eating outside on weekdays and cooking for myself during the weekends.
Dislikes (Permanent Immigration): There are very limited jobs for international students and companies usually do not consider candidates who require visa sponsorship. I would like to immigrate permanently but it requires a visa to be sponsored and companies need to pay international students higher salaries than local people. This can be a challenge unless someone has significant work experience.
Total Monthly ExpensePound 325
Prepping time for classes15 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryPound 35000
Views on University of Southern California campus
A
Anonymous
Master of Science in Computer Engineering - Batch of 2026
Offered by University of Southern California
4.1
Great opportunities and valuable insights.
Tips: Be accurate, be precise and be manageable. Better chances to get a job which helps to survive in the system and go through the immigration process. The University of Southern California also helps with immigration during the study time also guiding students step by step to be safe and careful about the laws and updates regarding the same.
Dislikes (Post study jobs): There is a strong opportunity for getting a job once you have the name of the University of Southern California on your profile, which helps to go through the best career unlock for the same and manage between the opportunities to go for the best rewards to select.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 7625
Prepping time for classes30 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 87675
A
Anonymous
Master of Science in Computer Science - Batch of 2026
Offered by University of Southern California
3.7
Challenging and transformative.
Tips: Before joining USC students should know it's very fast paced and competitive. The coursework especially in CS, is intense and very project heavy. You really need strong fundamentals in data structures and algorithms and system design. Time management is important.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 6100
Prepping time for classes29 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 77100
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
BS in Business Administration - Batch of 2028
Offered by University of Southern California
4.1
Unwavering success and collaboration.
Tips: There is always a bit of a culture shift when you migrate to a different country. Though USC is so diverse in its student body, it still feels like home. There is no other place I'd want to be at. There are multiple scholarships that you can apply for, and if you're merit enough, you might end up getting them. Public transportation is not really convenient because it does not connect a lot of places that anyone wants to go to. And even if it does, it is not really that safe to use alone or in a small group. The public transportation is technically very affordable but given that it is not that safe or easy to use, its affordability doesn't add much to its benefits.
Likes (Quality of faculty): The faculty here is excellent. They are approachable, even if you are not taking a class with them. It is very diverse and the faculty represents multiple nationalities from multiple countries. The teaching methodology is very practical and very much inclined towards the emphasis of group work and team spirit and collaboration.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 1000
Prepping time for classes5 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 90000
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