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Clemson University and University of South Carolina-Columbia are both public institutions — Clemson University in Clemson, SC and University of South Carolina-Columbia in Columbia, 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.
Columbia, SC · Public
Acceptance rate: 60.2%
Undergrad enrollment: 29,820
Tuition: $35,972/year
Student-faculty ratio: 19.0:1
Graduation rate: 78.8%
Top programs: Business and marketing, Health professions, Biological sciences
Best for: Students who want a public campus in Columbia, SC with published program strength in Business and marketing and Health professions.
| Factor | Clemson University | University of South Carolina-Columbia |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 38.3% | 60.2% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| 1240–1410 |
| 1180–1360 |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 28–32 | 26–32 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 23,300 | 29,820 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $40,866/year | $35,972/year |
| Average net price after aid | $22,253 | $22,811 |
| Graduation rate | 86.6% | 78.8% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $71,513 | $62,177 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 16.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Institution type | Public | Public |
| Location | Clemson, SC | Columbia, SC |
| Largest program areas | Business and marketing, Engineering, Social sciences | Business and marketing, Health professions, Biological sciences |
Clemson University is more selective (38.3% vs 60.2% acceptance rate). Clemson University has a lower average net price after grant aid ($22,253 vs $22,811). Clemson University reports the higher graduation rate (86.6% vs 78.8%). University of South Carolina-Columbia is the larger undergraduate campus (29,820 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 University of South Carolina-Columbia
Clemson University has an acceptance rate of 38.3%; University of South Carolina-Columbia is around 60.2%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
Clemson University tuition is $40,866/year. University of South Carolina-Columbia is $35,972/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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