
Clemson, SC
Best for
Balanced campus with strong community feel and moderate class-size diversity.
Data source: U.S. College Scorecard · Planning cycle 2026 · Methodology
Moderately Selective
Graduation
Median earnings
$71,513
SAT / ACT
1230–1400
Net price
$22,112
Campus feel
Big-campus energy
Enrollment
22,778
Bio sciences degrees
8.5%
Off-campus housing
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Clemson University, located in Clemson, South Carolina, is a prominent public four-year institution known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life. With an enrollment of over 22,000 students, Clemson offers a rigorous educational experience supported by an honors program and a commitment to student success. The university maintains a selective acceptance rate of 38%, reflecting its competitive admissions standards. Graduates benefit from an impressive 86.6% graduation rate and median earnings of approximately $71,513, underscoring the institution's focus on career readiness. Clemson's standardized test scores indicate a well-prepared student body, contributing to a dynamic learning environment.
Large public university with over 22,000 students providing diverse academic opportunities.
Selective admissions with a 38% acceptance rate and strong median SAT and ACT scores.
Robust graduation rate of 86.6%, reflecting student persistence and institutional support.
Honors program available, enhancing academic challenge and enrichment.
Competitive tuition rates with in-state tuition at $15,554 and a net price around $22,112.
Graduates achieve solid median earnings of $71,513, indicating strong career outcomes.
Comprehensive academic offerings supported by rigorous coursework and faculty engagement.
Vibrant campus life fostering intellectual growth, social interaction, and community involvement.
What makes this school stand out for applicants
Clemson University in South Carolina offers a vibrant academic environment, competitive admissions, and strong career prospects for its large student body. With a notable graduation rate and median earnings, students benefit from rigorous programs and an engaging campus experience. This overview explores why Clemson stands out as a choice for prospective undergraduates seeking quality education and meaningful post-graduate success.
Selective admissions with a 38% acceptance rate, ensuring a motivated and high-achieving student body.
Robust academic environment reflected in strong standardized test scores and a challenging honors program.
Large campus community of over 22,000 students, fostering diverse social and intellectual experiences.
Graduation rate of 86.6%, indicating strong student support and academic success.
Median post-graduate earnings of $71,513, highlighting solid return on investment for graduates.
Competitive tuition rates for in-state students with comprehensive financial aid options to manage net price.
Dynamic campus life that balances rigorous academics with vibrant student organizations and activities.
Programs, pathways, and academic culture
Clemson University stands out as a public research institution with a robust commitment to academic excellence, particularly in STEM fields, business, and engineering. Its rigorous curriculum, combined with a strong honors program, prepares students for competitive careers and graduate studies. The university's integration of practical learning and research opportunities fosters an intellectually stimulating environment that supports student achievement and career readiness.
Clemson's engineering programs—especially in mechanical, civil, and electrical engineering—are highly regarded for their practical focus and industry connections.
The College of Business offers comprehensive programs that emphasize entrepreneurship, supply chain management, and finance, equipping students with skills aligned with market demands.
Strong STEM disciplines, including biological sciences and computer science, benefit from extensive research initiatives and hands-on lab experiences.
An honors program that challenges high-achieving students with advanced coursework and research opportunities, enhancing academic rigor and career prospects.
Faculty engagement in cutting-edge research provides students with mentorship and opportunities to contribute to innovative projects.
Collaborations with industry leaders in South Carolina and beyond facilitate internships and job placements, reinforcing the connection between academics and career outcomes.
Honors program available
Culture, athletics atmosphere, and social environment
Clemson University in South Carolina offers a dynamic campus life that blends rigorous academics with a spirited social environment. With a large student body, a strong honors program, and an impressive graduation rate, Clemson fosters a community where students thrive both intellectually and socially. The university's commitment to student engagement and career readiness makes it a compelling choice for those seeking a well-rounded college experience.
Clemson University’s large campus community of over 22,000 students creates a lively and diverse social atmosphere.
The honors program offers enriched academic opportunities, supporting motivated students in pursuing advanced study and research.
Students benefit from a high graduation rate of 86.6%, reflecting strong academic support and engagement.
The campus experience is marked by a balance of rigorous academics and active student life, including numerous clubs, organizations, and events.
Median early career earnings of $71,513 underscore the university’s effectiveness in preparing students for successful employment.
The university’s acceptance rate of 38% indicates a selective admissions process, contributing to a motivated and capable student body.
Students enjoy access to both on-campus housing and vibrant off-campus living options, fostering a close-knit community feel.
With competitive SAT and ACT scores, Clemson attracts academically strong students who contribute to an intellectually stimulating environment.
Clemson University’s large campus community of over 22,000 students creates a lively and diverse social atmosphere.
Acceptance Rate
38%
Class of 2026
Earnings, value, and graduate outcomes
Clemson University, a large public four-year institution in South Carolina, offers a compelling blend of rigorous academics and robust career outcomes. With a strong graduation rate and impressive median earnings for graduates, Clemson presents a solid return on investment for students seeking both quality education and promising career prospects.
Public university with an 86.6% graduation rate, indicating strong student support and academic success.
Median early-career salary of $71,513, reflecting the market value of Clemson degrees.
Selective admission with a 38% acceptance rate, ensuring a competitive and motivated student body.
Honors program available for high-achieving students, fostering academic excellence and enriched learning experiences.
SAT and ACT score ranges demonstrate a student cohort prepared for rigorous coursework.
Affordable in-state tuition coupled with substantial post-graduation earnings highlights the financial value of attending Clemson.
The feel of campus — socially and academically
Clemson University offers a vibrant student atmosphere where intellectual curiosity meets spirited social engagement. With a strong emphasis on academic excellence and community involvement, Clemson students experience a balanced college life that fosters growth both inside and outside the classroom. The campus culture is marked by a shared commitment to innovation, leadership, and a welcoming spirit that reflects its Southern roots.
Clemson University offers a diverse range of housing options tailored to support the large student body’s academic and social needs. From traditional residence halls to suite-style and apartment living, students can find accommodations that foster community engagement while providing a conducive environment for study and relaxation. The university's housing policies and vibrant campus lifestyle contribute significantly to the overall student experience, complementing Clemson's strong academic programs and career outcomes.
Variety of on-campus housing including traditional dormitories, suite-style residences, and apartments
Housing designed to promote community interaction and academic collaboration
Convenient access to campus resources such as dining, libraries, and recreational facilities
Supportive residential staff and programming enhance student well-being and engagement
Options for upperclassmen and honors students seeking quieter or more specialized living environments
Proximity to Clemson’s vibrant town provides opportunities for off-campus living and cultural exploration
Student ecosystem
Students at Clemson University in Clemson typically sequence housing search, banking setup, renters insurance, and move-in paperwork in the 60 days before classes start.
Clemson, SC · ~22,778 students
Value market · Clemson Heights, College Hill, The Loop…
Avg 1BR
$900/mo
Shared estimate
~$600/person
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Admissions, costs, and outcomes for Clemson University
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Graduation Rate
Above national average
Total Enrollment
Undergraduate students
Global community, support, and practical pathways
Clemson University in South Carolina offers a vibrant and supportive environment for international students. With a competitive acceptance rate and strong graduation outcomes, Clemson blends rigorous academics with a dynamic campus life. International students benefit from diverse cultural engagement, extensive support services, and promising career prospects post-graduation.
Clemson University is a large public institution with an enrollment of over 22,000 students, fostering a diverse and dynamic community.
The university’s acceptance rate of 38% reflects its selective admissions, ensuring a motivated and capable student body.
International students find a welcoming environment with dedicated support services, including orientation programs and cultural organizations that ease the transition into American college life.
Clemson offers a robust Honors Program that enhances academic rigor and provides enriched learning opportunities for high-achieving students.
The campus social scene is vibrant, featuring a mix of student organizations, cultural events, and recreational activities that promote inclusion and community building.
Graduation rates near 87% signify strong academic support and student success, with median earnings post-graduation around $71,500, indicating solid career outcomes.
Housing options include both on-campus residence halls and off-campus apartments, allowing international students to choose living arrangements that best fit their preferences and budgets.
Return on Investment
Good4-Year Cost
$88,448
10-Year Earnings
$715,130
ROI Multiple
8.1×
Based on avg net price × 4 years vs. median earnings × 10 years after enrollment
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