Clemson Acceptance Rate

Clemson University, located in South Carolina, is a public research institution known for its competitive admissions process. For the most recent admission cycle (Class of 2028), Clemson reported an overall acceptance rate of approximately 43.0%, reflecting a selective yet accessible admissions landscape. This rate is influenced by a growing applicant pool, with over 50,000 applications received in recent years, Ascendancy, a surge in demand for higher education, and the university's strong academic reputation. Clemson provides transparent admission statistics through its official website and Common Data Set reports, offering prospective students valuable insights into the admissions process. For the most accurate and up-to-date data, visit Clemson Admissions.

• Overall Acceptance Rate: 43.0% for the Class of 2028, with approximately 52,000 applicants and 22,360 admitted students, indicating sustained selectivity.
• Early Action Rate: Estimated at 50.0%, based on historical trends, as specific data for 2028 is not yet fully published. Early Action applicants often see slightly higher acceptance rates due to demonstrated interest.
• International Student Rate: Approximately 38.0%, with a smaller but growing pool of international applicants (around 2,000) and heightened competition for limited spots.

Over the past decade, Clemson’s acceptance rate has trended downward from around 51% in 2015 to 43% in 2023, reflecting increasing competitiveness as more students apply each year. Early Action remains a strategic option for applicants, often yielding higher acceptance rates compared to Regular Decision. International admissions have also become more selective due to a rising global interest in U.S. education. Compared to peer institutions like the University of South Carolina (acceptance rate ~62%), Clemson is notably more selective, though it remains less competitive than elite public universities like UNC Chapel Hill (~19%). This balance of selectivity and accessibility makes Clemson a popular choice for both in-state and out-of-state students seeking a robust academic experience.