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Clarkson University and Alfred University are both private nonprofit institutions — Clarkson University in Potsdam, NY and Alfred University in Alfred, NY. This page compares published admission, cost, and outcome data from federal sources so you can see the tradeoffs before you add either school to your list.
Potsdam, NY · Private
Acceptance rate: 77.4%
Undergrad enrollment: 2,196
Tuition: $59,398/year
Student-faculty ratio: 13.0:1
Graduation rate: 74.9%
Top programs: Engineering, Business and marketing, Biological sciences
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Potsdam, NY with published program strength in Engineering and Business and marketing.
Alfred, NY · Private
Acceptance rate: 73.8%
Undergrad enrollment: 1,423
Tuition: $41,500/year
Student-faculty ratio: 9.0:1
Graduation rate: 57.0%
Top programs: Visual and performing arts, Engineering, Business and marketing
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Alfred, NY with published program strength in Visual and performing arts and Engineering.
| Factor | Clarkson University | Alfred University |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 77.4% | 73.8% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| 1200–1390 |
| 1095–1310 |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 25–32 | 24–29 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 2,196 | 1,423 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $59,398/year | $41,500/year |
| Average net price after aid | $30,305 | $25,620 |
| Graduation rate | 74.9% | 57.0% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $89,696 | $54,897 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 13.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Institution type | Private nonprofit | Private nonprofit |
| Location | Potsdam, NY | Alfred, NY |
| Largest program areas | Engineering, Business and marketing, Biological sciences | Visual and performing arts, Engineering, Business and marketing |
Alfred University is more selective (73.8% vs 77.4% acceptance rate). Alfred University has a lower average net price after grant aid ($25,620 vs $30,305). Clarkson University reports the higher graduation rate (74.9% vs 57.0%). Clarkson University is the larger undergraduate campus (2,196 students). Use the free side-by-side comparison tool to weigh cost, program fit, location, and outcomes for your own list — and verify deadlines and requirements with each college.
Common questions when choosing between Clarkson University and Alfred University
Clarkson University has an acceptance rate of 77.4%; Alfred University is around 73.8%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
Clarkson University tuition is $59,398/year. Alfred University is $41,500/year. Compare net price after aid, not sticker price — especially for private schools and out-of-state publics.
Use College Decider's free comparison tool at /compare — add both schools to see tuition, acceptance rates, graduation outcomes, and more in one table.
Add both schools to our free side-by-side comparison tool — tuition, outcomes, and more.
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