Columbia University in the City of New York vs Clemson University

New York, NY — Clemson, SC

Metric
Columbia University in the City of New York
New York, NY
Clemson University
Clemson, SC
Location New York, NY Clemson, SC
Type Private Nonprofit Public
Total Enrollment 8,973 23,300
Acceptance Rate 4.0% 38.3%
SAT Average 1,553 1,353
In-State Tuition $71,845 $15,554
Out-of-State Tuition $71,845 $40,866
Avg Net Price $21,590 $22,253
Median Debt at Graduation $21,500 $21,500
4-Year Graduation Rate 95.5% 87.2%
Retention Rate 98.0% 93.5%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $88,535 $58,311
Median Earnings (10 yr) $102,491 $71,513
Loan Repayment Rate 185800.0% 460600.0%

Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.

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Columbia University in the City of New York
New York, NY
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Clemson University
Clemson, SC
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Columbia University in the City of New York and Clemson University compare?
Columbia University in the City of New York (New York, NY) has an acceptance rate of 4.0%, in-state tuition of $71,845, and median 10-year earnings of $102,491. 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.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Columbia University in the City of New York or Clemson University?
Columbia University in the City of New York graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $102,491 vs $71,513. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Columbia University in the City of New York or Clemson University?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Columbia University in the City of New York is the more affordable option at $21,590 per year versus $22,253.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Columbia University in the City of New York has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 95.5% vs 87.2%.

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All data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. PlainCollege is not affiliated with any government agency.

Related

Source: U.S. Department of Education — College Scorecard College Scorecard institution outcomes (earnings, completion, debt) · 2025