University of South Carolina-Columbia vs Clemson University
Columbia, SC — Clemson, SC
| Metric | University of South Carolina-Columbia Columbia, SC | Clemson University Clemson, SC |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Columbia, SC | Clemson, SC |
| Type | Public | Public |
| Total Enrollment | 29,820 | 23,300 |
| Acceptance Rate | 60.2% | 38.3% |
| SAT Average | 1,297 | 1,353 |
| In-State Tuition | $12,688 | $15,554 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $35,972 | $40,866 |
| Avg Net Price | $22,811 | $22,253 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $21,500 | $21,500 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 78.3% | 87.2% |
| Retention Rate | 92.2% | 93.5% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $50,621 | $58,311 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $62,177 | $71,513 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 751700.0% | 460600.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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University of South Carolina-Columbia
Columbia, SC
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Clemson University
Clemson, SC
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do University of South Carolina-Columbia and Clemson University compare?▼
University of South Carolina-Columbia (Columbia, SC) has an acceptance rate of 60.2%, in-state tuition of $12,688, and median 10-year earnings of $62,177. 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, University of South Carolina-Columbia or Clemson University?▼
Clemson University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $71,513 vs $62,177. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, University of South Carolina-Columbia or Clemson University?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Clemson University is the more affordable option at $22,253 per year versus $22,811.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
Clemson University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 87.2% vs 78.3%.
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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