Clemson University campus
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Clemson University

Clemson, SC · Public · 23,300 students

Experience main campus in the Upstate foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Acceptance rate

38.3%

SAT (mid 50%)

1240–1410

Avg net price

$22,253

after aid

Testing

Optional

2027 cycle

Sources: the U.S. Department of Education (2024), and the Clemson University admissions site.

Your chances

How hard is it to get in?

Clemson University admitted 38.3% of applicants in its most recent reported class. That’s selective. Fewer than half of the students who apply get in.

Here’s where admitted students landed on tests. The middle 50% score 1240–1410 on the SAT and 28–32 on the ACT. Scores at or above that band keep you in contention. They don’t decide it.

The real question isn’t your odds. It’s your move. That’s where Spike comes in. It reads your profile against what Clemson University actually rewards, then tells you what to do next.

Check your own numbers against this class →

What they value

Innovate, Research, Discover

Explore more than 80 undergraduate majors, 90 minors and 130 graduate programs to find the path and the professors leading to your dream career.

  • Extensive Academic Offerings80+ undergraduate majors, 90+ minors, 130+ graduate programs
  • R1 Public Research InstitutionCarnegie R1, externally funded competitive research
  • Experiential Learningstudent research, co-ops, internships

Verified from clemson.edu and clemson.edu and clemson.edu and clemson.edu and clemson.edu and clemson.edu and clemson.edu and clemson.edu.

Applying

Here’s what to send, and when.

  • TestingOptional (2027 cycle)

Verified from clemson.edu.

The essays

Here are the supplemental essay prompts.

The current prompts, straight from the application. They change year to year. Most guides you’ll find are a cycle behind.

  • Tell us about your academic interests and professional goals (to the extent that you have identified them at this point). What experiences, talents, accomplishments, and/or characteristics inspired and contributed to these goals? What avenues have you explored to learn more about this or to gain experience in this area to date?

    Up to 650 words

  • Submit a response to one of the seven Common Application essay prompts. If you have already completed a Common App personal statement, that essay fulfills this requirement.

    Up to 650 words

Every prompt, with how to approach each →

Verified from clemson.edu.

Cost and aid

What will you actually pay?

The sticker price is about $35,015. That isn’t what most families pay. After need-based aid, the average net price is $22,253.

Higher education is an investment in yourself and your future, and Clemson offers clear tuition information, support resources, scholarship opportunities, and specialized financial aid counselors to guide you.

Ten years after enrolling, graduates earn a median of $71,513.

Verified from clemson.edu and the U.S. Department of Education.

Academics

These are the most popular majors.

  • Business Administration, Management and Operations8% of degrees
  • Marketing7% of degrees
  • Psychology, General7% of degrees
  • Biology, General6% of degrees
  • Finance and Financial Management Services5% of degrees
  • Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing4% of degrees

Campus life

Here’s the feel of the place.

“A Tuesday here means being part of a community on the move, boldly creating a brighter future as a Tiger and a leader.”

Come experience our compassionate community in action and get a taste of life as a Tiger amidst the Upstate foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Outdoor-centricResearch-focusedCommunity-drivenLeadership-focused

Quick answers

What do people ask about Clemson University?

Is Clemson University test-optional?
For the 2027 application cycle, standardized testing at Clemson University is optional.
How hard is it to get into Clemson University?
Very hard. Clemson University admits 38.3% of applicants. The middle 50% of admitted students score 1240 to 1410 on the SAT. Treat it as a reach for every applicant.
How much does Clemson University cost?
The list price is about $35,015. After aid, families pay $22,253 on average.
Is Clemson University worth it?
Graduates earn a median of $71,513 ten years after enrolling. 87% of students graduate within six years. Value depends on your aid offer and your goals. That’s what Spike helps you weigh.

Launching soon

Ask Spike anything about Clemson University.

Spike answers from Clemson University’s own site, then helps you figure out your move.