Clemson University SAT Scores, ACT Scores, Acceptance Rate, and Admissions Requirements
Clemson is test-optional, but scores still matter here: 35% submit SAT results, and the middle range reaches 1400. If you can move your SAT into the upper half of Clemson’s range, around 1330 to 1400, you give Clemson stronger evidence that you can handle the work.
Data on this page is sourced from our college data partners and was last updated on July 9, 2026.
Clemson University facts and stats
Clemson University enrolls 23,401 undergraduates in a small-town campus setting. Clemson’s freshman retention rate is 94%, well above the national average of roughly 70%, and its 6-year graduation rate is 87%. The student-to-faculty ratio is 16:1.
Clemson, SC
How do your scores compare at Clemson?
Unlock your future with Acely
Adaptive SAT and ACT practice that meets you where you are and gets you to your target score.
Key Clemson University application dates
Key dates
Regular Decision
May 1
Early Action
October 15
Early Decision
Not offered
Priority Deadline
October 15
Financial Aid Priority
January 2
Test dates
August 22, 2026
Registration deadline: August 7, 2026
September 12, 2026
Registration deadline: August 28, 2026
October 3, 2026
Registration deadline: September 18, 2026
September 19, 2026
Registration deadline: August 14, 2026
October 17, 2026
Registration deadline: September 11, 2026
December 12, 2026
Registration deadline: November 6, 2026
Because Clemson is test-optional, follow this timeline only if you plan to submit SAT or ACT scores: take your first test by the spring of junior year, then use the summer before senior year and fall of senior year for retakes and a possible superscore boost. For the October 15 Early Action deadline, plan on the September ACT or August SAT as the last retake likely to return scores in time.
Want to improve your scores and unlock scholarships at Clemson University?
Higher test scores can mean bigger merit awards. Acely helps you get there faster.
What you'll actually pay
Clemson is a public Atlantic Coast Conference university with in-state tuition of $14,038 and out-of-state tuition of $39,350. About 39% of students receive aid, and the FAFSA priority deadline is January 2.
Out-of-state tuition at Clemson is $39,350, while in-state tuition is $14,038, and room and board adds about $13,284. About 39% of students receive aid, with an average aid package of $14,186. Merit awards average $4,905, which can help reduce the billed cost for qualifying students. Graduates leave with an average debt of $35,392.
Student life at Clemson University
8% of undergrads live on campus
Freshman housing: Guaranteed
Fraternities and sororities are active on campus. 19% of men join fraternities, and 38% of women join sororities.
Similar schools
Aiken Technical College
Graniteville, SCAcceptance rate: 69.9%
Allen University
Columbia, SCAcceptance rate: 72.5%
Anderson University
Anderson, SCAcceptance rate: 54.7%
SAT: 1110–1270
ACT: 22–29
Charleston Southern University
Charleston, SCAcceptance rate: 96.5%
SAT: 940–1170
ACT: 18–24
Ready to fit Clemson University's core benchmarks?
Start practicing today and track your progress toward a competitive score.