What is Clemson University's acceptance rate?

Clemson University's acceptance rate is 38.3%, which makes it very selective — competitive, but within reach for strong applicants.

What SAT or ACT score do you need for Clemson University?

Admitted students typically score about 1250–1400 on the SAT (middle 50%) and about 28–32 on the ACT. Scores at or above this range strengthen your application, but they are one factor among many.

Is Clemson University test-optional?

Clemson University's current testing policy is: Test-optional. Always confirm on the school's admissions site, as policies change by cycle.

Clemson University Acceptance Rate & How to Get In (38.3%)

38.3%

Acceptance rate

1250–1400

SAT (mid 50%)

28–32

ACT (mid 50%)

Test-optional

Testing

How hard is it to get into Clemson University?

With a 38.3% acceptance rate, Clemson University is very selective — competitive, but within reach for strong applicants. It enrolls roughly 24,060 undergraduates (small town setting) in Clemson, SC. Solid grades, a sensible test plan, and thoughtful essays go a long way here.

What it takes to get in

SAT: admitted students land around 1250–1400 (middle 50%). Aim for the upper end to be competitive.
ACT: the middle 50% is about 28–32.
GPA: admitted students average around 3.47. Rigor (APs/IB/honors) matters as much as the number.
Testing policy: Test-optional. Confirm on the school's site, since policies shift each cycle.
Essays: at Clemson University's selectivity, the application essays are often what separates similar applicants. Make them specific and authentically yours.

Cost

Published tuition is about $40,866 out-of-state ($15,554 in-state) per year before aid. Many students pay less after financial aid — check the school's net price calculator.

Notable programs

Engineering · Business · Agriculture · Computer Science

See the Common App personal-statement guide

Score your Clemson University essays, free

Great numbers get you in the room; the essays get you in. Paste your draft into Halo for instant, rubric-based feedback. Halo never writes your essay for you.

Try Halo free

Clemson University admissions FAQ

What is Clemson University's acceptance rate?: Clemson University's acceptance rate is 38.3%, which makes it very selective — competitive, but within reach for strong applicants.
What SAT or ACT score do you need for Clemson University?: Admitted students typically score about 1250–1400 on the SAT (middle 50%) and about 28–32 on the ACT. Scores at or above this range strengthen your application, but they are one factor among many.
Is Clemson University test-optional?: Clemson University's current testing policy is: Test-optional. Always confirm on the school's admissions site, as policies change by cycle.

Sources & official links

Clemson University official website
Clemson University on College Scorecard (U.S. Department of Education)
Admissions figures compiled from the Common Data Set and IPEDS.

Figures are the most recent available from Common Data Set, IPEDS, and public reports, and are approximate. Always confirm details on Clemson University’s official admissions site.