Clemson University admits approximately 38.0% of applicants, meaning roughly 2 in 5 applicants receive an offer of admission. This places Clemson in the Selective (25-50%) admissions tier, representing moderate to high competitiveness among four-year institutions. The peer median admission rate of 78.1% highlights Clemson's significantly more selective positioning compared to typical public universities, with a 40.0 percentage point difference. This level of selectivity means that academically qualified students face meaningful competition in the admission process, though acceptance odds remain more favorable than highly selective institutions. Students considering Clemson should expect a thorough evaluation of academic credentials, extracurricular involvement, and fit with the university's academic programs. The university's position as a flagship-level institution in South Carolina contributes to sustained application demand. For prospective students, Clemson's selectivity indicates the importance of building balanced college lists that include institutions with higher acceptance rates alongside similar academic quality. Treating Clemson as a match or slight reach school depending on individual qualifications represents sound application strategy for most students.
A directional estimate — not a prediction
Admitted students at Clemson University typically demonstrate strong academic preparation, with SAT scores ranging from 1230-1390 and ACT scores from 28-32. The SAT midpoint of 1341 and ACT midpoint of 30 represent among the highest test score profiles Azimuth tracks. SAT Math scores range from 610-700, while SAT Verbal scores span 620-690, indicating balanced quantitative and verbal preparation. Most admitted students score between 1230 and 1390 on the SAT, with the middle 50% falling within this range. Scores below 1200 are less common but not automatically disqualifying, particularly for students with strong academic records in other areas. Clemson's test score profile significantly exceeds typical public university standards, with SAT scores 143 points above the peer median of 1198 and ACT scores 5 points above the peer median of 25. This academic profile reflects the university's position as a flagship-level institution competing for high-achieving students regionally and nationally. Students should consider whether their academic credentials align with these ranges when evaluating competitiveness for admission. Applicants scoring within the 1230-1390 SAT range or 28-32 ACT range demonstrate academic readiness for Clemson's selective academic environment, while those below these ranges should carefully assess their overall application strength including grades, course rigor, and extracurricular achievements.
Understanding institutional priorities and student support
Clemson University enrolls a student body with limited economic diversity relative to typical public institutions. The university serves 14.5% Pell-eligible students and 17.2% first-generation students, both below national averages for public universities. Transfer students comprise 25.3% of the student body, indicating meaningful pathways for community college graduates seeking four-year completion. This composition suggests admission priorities favor traditional college-bound students with established academic preparation, though the university does maintain commitment to serving first-generation and transfer populations. The lower Pell share reflects Clemson's positioning as a selective public institution that attracts students from middle and upper-middle-income families alongside merit-driven selection. First-generation students should recognize that 17.2% of enrolled students share similar backgrounds, providing peer community despite being a minority population. Transfer applicants should note the substantial 25.3% transfer enrollment as evidence of institutional commitment to community college pathways. Students from lower-income families should carefully evaluate the 14.5% Pell share when assessing cultural and social fit, while recognizing strong institutional outcomes for students who do enroll.
Given Clemson's 38% acceptance rate and selective academic profile, most applicants should consider backup options. The alternatives below provide comparable outcomes with different admission profiles, costs, or geographic locations.
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Students who enroll at Clemson University demonstrate strong persistence and completion outcomes across student populations. 92.8% of freshmen return for sophomore year, well above the peer median of 83.7%, indicating effective academic and social integration support. 87.9% of students graduate within six years, significantly exceeding the peer median of 65.9% and demonstrating institutional effectiveness in degree completion. Pell-eligible students graduate at 71.2%, creating a 16.7 percentage point gap compared to the overall completion rate. While this gap indicates challenges for lower-income students, the absolute Pell completion rate remains competitive with national standards for selective institutions. The retention and completion data suggest students who gain admission and enroll can expect strong institutional support for degree completion, with graduation rates exceeding typical public university performance. Students should view these outcomes as indicators of the academic environment and support systems they will experience. Lower-income students should consider the Pell completion gap when evaluating fit, while recognizing that those who do complete degrees achieve strong career outcomes as demonstrated by Clemson's mobility performance.
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