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Clemson University and College of Charleston are both public institutions — Clemson University in Clemson, SC and College of Charleston in Charleston, SC. 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.
Clemson, SC · Public
Acceptance rate: 38.3%
Undergrad enrollment: 23,300
Tuition: $40,866/year
Student-faculty ratio: 16.0:1
Graduation rate: 86.6%
Top programs: Business and marketing, Engineering, Social sciences
Best for: Students who want a public campus in Clemson, SC with published program strength in Business and marketing and Engineering.
Charleston, SC · Public
Acceptance rate: 60.0%
Undergrad enrollment: 10,558
Tuition: $38,296/year
Student-faculty ratio: 16.0:1
Graduation rate: 65.8%
Top programs: Business and marketing, Biological sciences, Communication
Best for: Students who want a public campus in Charleston, SC with published program strength in Business and marketing and Biological sciences.
| Factor | Clemson University | College of Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 38.3% | 60.0% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| 1240–1410 |
| 1140–1310 |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 28–32 | 25–30 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 23,300 | 10,558 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $40,866/year | $38,296/year |
| Average net price after aid | $22,253 | $18,960 |
| Graduation rate | 86.6% | 65.8% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $71,513 | $56,416 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 16.0:1 | 16.0:1 |
| Institution type | Public | Public |
| Location | Clemson, SC | Charleston, SC |
| Largest program areas | Business and marketing, Engineering, Social sciences | Business and marketing, Biological sciences, Communication |
Clemson University is more selective (38.3% vs 60.0% acceptance rate). College of Charleston has a lower average net price after grant aid ($18,960 vs $22,253). Clemson University reports the higher graduation rate (86.6% vs 65.8%). Clemson University is the larger undergraduate campus (23,300 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.
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Common questions when choosing between Clemson University and College of Charleston
Clemson University has an acceptance rate of 38.3%; College of Charleston is around 60.0%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
Clemson University tuition is $40,866/year. College of Charleston is $38,296/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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