The University of Alabama (UA) is a public research university located in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, with a student population of approximately 38,000. It is known for its vibrant campus life, strong athletics, and comprehensive academic programs. Admissions are moderately selective, with an acceptance rate of around 76%. Popular programs include Engineering, Business, Education, and Nursing. UA has a graduation rate of approximately 74%, and its graduates earn average starting salaries of around INR 51–52 lakhs annually (USD $61,700).
The University of South Carolina (USC), located in Columbia, South Carolina, is a large public research university with around 34,000 students. It emphasizes a diverse academic environment and community engagement. Admissions are somewhat selective, with an acceptance rate of approximately 61.5%. Popular programs include Business, Public Health, Engineering, and Hospitality Management. USC has a graduation rate of around 72%, and its alumni earn average starting salaries of INR 45–46 lakhs annually (USD $54,100).
| University of Alabama | University of South Carolina | |
|---|---|---|
| Collegedunia Score | 5.8 Out of 10 | - |
| ranking (overall) | # 801 Times Higher Education 2026 # 1001 QS World University 2026 # 192 Center for World University Rankings 2025 | # 628 QS World University 2026 |
| Subject Strength | # 97 for Engineering by US News 2025 # 156 for Medicine by QS World University 2025 # 251 for Law by Times Higher Education 2025 | # 401 for Medicine by QS World University 2025 # 63 for Law by US News 2025 |
| Programs | UG Programs -38 PG Programs -52 Doctorate Programs -3 | UG Programs -80 PG Programs -63 Doctorate Programs -57 |
| Acceptance Rate | 88.0 % | 61.5 % |
| Exam Score | Duolingo-110 IELTS-6.5 PTE-59 SAT-990 TOEFL-80 | SAT-920 |
| Cost to Study | Average Tuition Fees 50460 [For UG Program] Average Tuition Fees 38380 [For PG Program] Hostel + Meal - 25128 Per Year | Average Tuition Fees 41845 [For UG Program] Average Tuition Fees 31796 [For PG Program] Hostel + Meal - 20545 Per Year |
| placement (average package) | The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) has a strong track record of preparing students for successful careers, and many graduates go on to work for top companies or pursue advanced degrees. Here are some examples of companies that have hired UAB graduates, as well as the average salaries for some of the most popular majors:
It is important to note that these are only averages, and individual salaries may vary depending on factors such as location, industry, and years of experience. Additionally, UAB offers a range of career development services to help students and alumni succeed in their job searches, including resume and cover letter reviews, career fairs, and networking events. | |
| application requirements | Submit official transcripts Submit LORs Submit English language proficiency Check program specific requirements | - |
| CollegeDunia Reviews | 8.4/10 Read 8 reviews | - |
Top Courses Comparison
| ranking | # 601 for Business by Times Higher Education 2025 | # 151 for Business by QS World University 2025 |
| application | - | - |
| exam scores | Duolingo - 120/160IELTS - 6.5/9TOEFL - 80/120 | IELTS - 7/9TOEFL - 95/120 |
| documents required | #Letter of Recommendation + Statement of Purpose | #Letter of Recommendation + Statement of Purpose |
| application dates | Apr 1, 2026 (Application Deadline For Summer 2026 Intake) Jul 1, 2026 (Application Deadline For Fall 2026 Intake) Nov 1, 2026 (Application Deadline For Spring 2026 Intake) | Mar 1, 2026 (Application Deadline For Summer I 2026 Intake) Apr 1, 2026 (Priority Application Deadline for Fall 2026 Intake) May 1, 2026 (Application Deadline For Summer II 2026 Intake) Jul 25, 2026 (Final Application Deadline For Fall 2026 Intake) |
Other Popular Comparisons
| General Facts | University of Alabama | University of South Carolina |
|---|---|---|
| Type of University | University | University |
| Established | 1969 | 1961 |
| Student:Faculty Ratio | 10:1 | 14:1 |
| Male:Female | 50% Male, 50% Female | 36% Male, 64% Female |
| Location Facts |
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| Library | The UAB Libraries’ collections include over 1.4 million volumes and more than 40,000 journals and serials, in addition to extensive electronic resources, rare books, microforms, and audio-visual materials. The UAB Libraries host nearly 1 million patrons each year and support students and faculty in advancing their learning, research, and teaching. | |
| Campus Life |
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| Hostel | #Housing - $10112 #Housing - $9700 | #Off campus (with family) - $4451 #On campus - $7592 #Off campus (not with family) - $8502 |
| Famous Alumni | The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) has a long list of notable alumni, including accomplished professionals in various fields. Here are some of the prominent alumni from UAB :
This is just a small sample of the many successful alumni of the University of Alabama at Birmingham, which is a testament to the quality of education and opportunities offered by the university. | |
| City Life |
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| Weather |
University of Alabama vs University of South Carolina
Subject Global Strength & Rankings (2025/2026)
The University of South Carolina (USC) and the University of Alabama (UA) are both reputable public universities in the U.S. In the QS World University Rankings 2026, UA ranks 901-950 worldwide, with excellence in Business, Engineering, Law, and Communications. USC ranked 628 globally, with high-profile programs in Business,Engineering, Hospitality, Public Health, and Education, with a focus on applied learning and local impact.
General Information
UA, established in 1831 in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, is a large campus with ~38,000 students, featuring an extensive array of undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree programs, and a very active athletic and student life environment. USC, established in 1801 in Columbia, South Carolina, has ~35,000 students, featuring a large urban campus environment with close connections to local industries and professional networks.
Acceptance Rate & Admissions
Admissions at both institutions are relatively selective. UA is 76% acceptance, with increased competition in Engineering, Business, and Nursing. USC is roughly 61.5% acceptance, with competitive programs in Business, Engineering, Hospitality, and Public Health.
Research Impact & Facilities
UA is a Carnegie R1 research institution, with research units in engineering, business, law, health sciences, and energy, and close relations with industry and government. USC is also research-oriented, with excellent centers in business, engineering, hospitality, public health, and social sciences, targeting applied and community-focused research.
Cost & Financial Aid
Both are public universities. Tuition is affordable for in-state students, while out-of-state and international students pay more. Both provide merit-based, need-based, and program-specific scholarships, although UA has more in endowment to fund additional research and fellowship opportunities.
Career Outcomes & Alumni Success
UA graduates are successful in business, engineering, law, communications, and athletics, with extensive contacts throughout the southeastern United States. USC graduates are successful in business, engineering, hospitality, healthcare, and public service, drawing on strong regional employer networks and professional development programs sponsored by the universities.


















