Clemson University vs Auburn

Clemson University and Auburn University, both esteemed institutions of higher learning in the southeastern United States, offer unique educational experiences to their students. While they share some similarities, there are also key differences between the two universities. Clemson, located in South Carolina, has a slightly higher acceptance rate (63%) compared to Auburn's (59%). Both universities offer a wide range of academic programs, but Clemson is known for its strong engineering and science programs, while Auburn excels in business, engineering, and agriculture. The student body demographics also differ, with Clemson having a slightly larger undergraduate population and a higher percentage of male students. In terms of graduation rates, Auburn has a slightly higher four-year graduation rate (68%) compared to Clemson's (66%). To help you make an informed decision about which university is the best fit for you, we have compiled a comprehensive comparison table that delves into these differences in greater detail.
Auburn University logo

Auburn University

Clemson University logo

Clemson University

Overview

Location Auburn, Alabama Clemson, South Carolina
Campus setting City: Small Suburb: Large
College type 4 year 4 year
Control/business model Public Public
Calendar system Semester Semester
Degrees offered Undergraduate and Graduate Undergraduate and Graduate
Students retention rate 93.0% 94.0%
Common app member Yes Yes
Religious affiliation

Admission

Acceptance rate 71.2% 49.2%
Application fees
Undergraduate: $50

Graduate: $60
Undergraduate: $70

Graduate: $80
SAT range N/A 1220 - 1420
ACT range N/A 27 - 32
Students submitting SAT score 40.0%
Students submitting ACT score 30.0%
Total number of applicants 27,619 47,007
Total number of admissions given out 19,660 23,138
Admitted students who chose to enroll 5,311 4,593
Yield rate 27.0% 19.9%
Test scores (SAT/ACT) N/A N/A
High school GPA Required Required
Recommendation letters Not required Not required
High school transcript Not required Not required
English proficiency test (e.g. TOEFL) Required Required

Tuition and Fees

Sticker price
In state: $33,650

Out of state: $53,810
In state: $34,164

Out of state: $57,156
Average net price $23,873 $23,732
Tuition
In state: $10,080

Out of state: $30,240
In state: $14,118

Out of state: $37,110
Room & board
Room/dormitory: $8,892

Meal plan: $5,704
Room/dormitory: $7,808

Meal plan: $4,426
Available payment plans
  • Tuition payment plan
  • Tuition payment plan

Financial Aid

Students receiving financial aid

(Grants & scholarships)

69.0%
Average amount $10,448
81.0%
Average amount $9,699
Students receiving federal student loan 27.0%
Average amount $5,232
41.0%
Average amount $5,281
Students taking out private loans 5.0%
Average amount $24,894
9.0%
Average amount $21,664

Students and Campus

Undergraduate students 24,931
Men 50.5% Women 49.5%
21,653
Men 48.8% Women 51.2%
Graduate students 6,595
Men 46.7% Women 53.3%
5,688
Men 46.8% Women 53.2%
Racial/ethnic diversity
Very Low
Low
Out-of-state students 43.6% 48.4%
International students 7.0% 4.8%
Campus local/setting City: Small Suburb: Large
Dormitory capacity 4,823 7,800
First year students are required to live on campus? No No
Top 5 states where most U.S. students come from Alabama Georgia Florida Tennessee Texas South Carolina North Carolina Georgia New Jersey New York

Academics

Popular study areas
  • Engineering
  • Education
  • Health Professions
  • Business
  • Agriculture
  • Engineering
  • Business
  • Education
  • Health Professions
  • Agriculture
Students to faculty ratio 20:1 16:1
Institutional accreditation Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Outcome

Graduation rate 80.9% 85.5%
Dropout rate 4.4% 2.3%
Transferred out 13.0% 11.3%
Alumni salary by major (Top 10)
Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration (First Professional Degrees)
  • Year 1: $109,330
  • Year 2: $119,954
  • Year 3: $122,981
Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $106,330
  • Year 2: $114,892
  • Year 3: $119,917
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $90,962
  • Year 2: $93,520
  • Year 3: $96,107
Veterinary Medicine (First Professional Degrees)
  • Year 1: $80,045
  • Year 2: N/A
  • Year 3: $94,852
Architectural Engineering (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $72,488
  • Year 2: $70,456
  • Year 3: $86,080
Chemical Engineering (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $75,285
  • Year 2: $74,576
  • Year 3: $83,134
Mechanical Engineering (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $67,127
  • Year 2: $68,778
  • Year 3: $77,684
Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $72,274
  • Year 2: $65,753
  • Year 3: $75,817
Industrial Engineering (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $66,558
  • Year 2: $65,170
  • Year 3: $75,401
Real Estate Development (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $70,456
  • Year 3: $74,364
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $78,776
  • Year 2: $90,762
  • Year 3: $98,373
Computer and Information Sciences, General (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $63,762
  • Year 2: $69,079
  • Year 3: $82,921
Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $74,898
  • Year 2: $74,262
  • Year 3: $80,104
Chemical Engineering (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $70,368
  • Year 2: $74,721
  • Year 3: $78,362
Industrial Engineering (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $65,182
  • Year 2: $68,592
  • Year 3: $76,236
Public Administration (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $69,048
  • Year 2: $64,493
  • Year 3: $76,070
Computer Engineering (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $66,632
  • Year 2: $67,995
  • Year 3: $74,017
Mechanical Engineering (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $66,398
  • Year 2: $66,673
  • Year 3: $73,905
Engineering-Related Fields (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $65,136
  • Year 2: $66,206
  • Year 3: $73,720
Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $66,228
  • Year 2: $67,101
  • Year 3: $73,643

Frequently Asked Questions


  • What are the main academic differences between Clemson University and Auburn University?

    Clemson University is particularly strong in engineering, science, and agriculture, with a strong emphasis on research and innovation. Auburn University also excels in these areas, but it's additionally known for its architecture, pharmacy, and veterinary medicine programs. Consider your specific academic interests when deciding which university aligns best with your goals.

  • How do the campus cultures compare at Clemson and Auburn?

    Both Clemson and Auburn have strong school spirit and a vibrant campus life centered around athletics, particularly football. Clemson's campus is located in a smaller, more rural setting, fostering a close-knit community feel. Auburn's campus is in a larger town, offering a blend of college town atmosphere and access to more amenities. Both universities have active Greek life and numerous student organizations.

  • Which university is more selective: Clemson or Auburn?

    Clemson University is generally considered slightly more selective than Auburn University. Both universities have competitive admissions processes, but Clemson typically has a lower acceptance rate and slightly higher average SAT/ACT scores for admitted students. However, both schools seek well-rounded students with strong academic records and extracurricular involvement.

  • What are the differences in tuition and cost of attendance between Clemson and Auburn?

    Tuition and cost of attendance can vary depending on residency status (in-state vs. out-of-state). Generally, Auburn University may have a slightly lower in-state tuition rate compared to Clemson. However, out-of-state tuition rates can fluctuate. It's best to check the official websites of both universities for the most up-to-date and accurate cost information, including fees, room and board, and other expenses.

  • How do Clemson and Auburn compare in terms of research opportunities?

    Both Clemson and Auburn are Carnegie R1 classified universities, indicating very high research activity. Clemson has strong research programs in areas like automotive engineering, advanced materials, and environmental science. Auburn's research strengths include areas like aerospace engineering, cybersecurity, and veterinary medicine. Both universities offer numerous opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students to participate in research projects.

  • What are the career services like at Clemson and Auburn?

    Both Clemson and Auburn offer comprehensive career services to help students with internships, job placement, and career development. They provide resources such as career counseling, resume workshops, mock interviews, and on-campus recruiting events. Both universities have strong relationships with employers in various industries, providing students with ample opportunities to connect with potential employers.

  • How do the surrounding cities of Clemson and Auburn differ?

    Clemson, South Carolina, is a smaller, more traditional college town with a strong focus on the university. It offers a quieter, more intimate environment. Auburn, Alabama, is a larger town with a more diverse economy and a wider range of amenities, including restaurants, shops, and entertainment options. Both towns offer a supportive and welcoming atmosphere for students.

  • What are the notable alumni networks like at Clemson and Auburn?

    Both Clemson and Auburn have strong and active alumni networks that provide valuable connections and support for graduates. These networks can be beneficial for career advancement, networking opportunities, and staying connected with the university. Both alumni associations host events and programs to engage alumni and support current students.

  • How do the athletic programs compare between Clemson and Auburn?

    Both Clemson and Auburn have highly competitive athletic programs, particularly in football. Both universities are members of the NCAA Division I and the Southeastern Conference (SEC) or Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC), respectively, and have a rich history of athletic success. Attending sporting events is a significant part of the student experience at both universities.

  • What are some unique aspects of Clemson University?

    Clemson University is known for its emphasis on 'The Clemson Experience,' which focuses on providing students with a well-rounded education that includes academic rigor, leadership development, and community engagement. Its location near Lake Hartwell offers recreational opportunities. Also, Clemson's cooperative education program is highly regarded.

  • What are some unique aspects of Auburn University?

    Auburn University is known for its 'Auburn Family' atmosphere, which emphasizes a strong sense of community and tradition. Its Samuel Ginn College of Engineering is highly ranked. Auburn's location provides access to both urban and rural environments, offering a diverse range of experiences.

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