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Clarkson University and Elmira College are both private nonprofit institutions — Clarkson University in Potsdam, NY and Elmira College in Elmira, 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.
Elmira, NY · Private
Acceptance rate: 77.0%
Undergrad enrollment: 708
Tuition: $38,976/year
Student-faculty ratio: 11.0:1
Graduation rate: 64.7%
Top programs: Business and marketing, Health professions, Public administration and social service
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Elmira, NY with published program strength in Business and marketing and Health professions.
| Factor | Clarkson University | Elmira College |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 77.4% | 77.0% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| 1200–1390 |
| 1090–1385 |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 25–32 | 26–29 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 2,196 | 708 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $59,398/year | $38,976/year |
| Average net price after aid | $30,305 | $22,386 |
| Graduation rate | 74.9% | 64.7% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $89,696 | $57,550 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 13.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Institution type | Private nonprofit | Private nonprofit |
| Location | Potsdam, NY | Elmira, NY |
| Largest program areas | Engineering, Business and marketing, Biological sciences | Business and marketing, Health professions, Public administration and social service |
Both schools admit a similar share of applicants (77.4% vs 77.0%). Elmira College has a lower average net price after grant aid ($22,386 vs $30,305). Clarkson University reports the higher graduation rate (74.9% vs 64.7%). 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 Elmira College
Clarkson University has an acceptance rate of 77.4%; Elmira College is around 77.0%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
Clarkson University tuition is $59,398/year. Elmira College is $38,976/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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