Clemson University vs California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo
Clemson, SC — San Luis Obispo, CA
| Metric | Clemson University Clemson, SC | California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo San Luis Obispo, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Clemson, SC | San Luis Obispo, CA |
| Type | Public | Public |
| Total Enrollment | 23,300 | 21,996 |
| Acceptance Rate | 38.3% | 31.3% |
| SAT Average | 1,353 | — |
| In-State Tuition | $15,554 | $13,596 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $40,866 | $34,665 |
| Avg Net Price | $22,253 | $16,665 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $21,500 | $18,500 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 87.2% | 85.7% |
| Retention Rate | 93.5% | 95.5% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $58,311 | $72,358 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $71,513 | $90,768 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 460600.0% | 437700.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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Clemson University
Clemson, SC
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California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo
San Luis Obispo, CA
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do Clemson University and California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo compare?▼
Clemson University (Clemson, SC) has an acceptance rate of 38.3%, in-state tuition of $15,554, and median 10-year earnings of $71,513. California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo (San Luis Obispo, CA) has an acceptance rate of 31.3%, in-state tuition of $13,596, and median 10-year earnings of $90,768.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Clemson University or California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo?▼
California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $90,768 vs $71,513. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Clemson University or California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo is the more affordable option at $16,665 per year versus $22,253.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
Clemson University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 87.2% vs 85.7%.
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All data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. PlainCollege is not affiliated with any government agency.
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Source: U.S. Department of Education — College Scorecard College Scorecard institution outcomes (earnings, completion, debt) · 2025