College Comparison
Clemson University vs The University of Alabama: Which is Better?
Side-by-side comparison of acceptance rates, SAT scores, tuition, earnings, and more — updated with the latest College Scorecard data.
School
Clemson University
Clemson, SC
School
The University of Alabama
Tuscaloosa, AL
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Clemson | Alabama |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 38.0%wins | 75.8% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1230–1390wins | 1170–1400 |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 28–32wins | 24–31 |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $39,498 | $33,200wins |
| Avg Net Price | $22,112wins | $22,150 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $71,513wins | $59,221 |
| Graduation Rate | 87.9%wins | 73.7% |
| Retention Rate | 92.8%wins | 86.1% |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 16:1wins | 19:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 22,778 | 32,323wins |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Clemson edges out Alabama on 8 of 10 measurable categories — including key factors like acceptance rate, earnings, and graduation rate. That said, the right choice depends heavily on your major, financial situation, and campus culture fit.
Clemson Strengths
- ✓Acceptance Rate: 38.0%
- ✓SAT Range (25th–75th): 1230–1390
- ✓ACT Range (25th–75th): 28–32
- ✓Avg Net Price: $22,112
Alabama Strengths
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $33,200
- ✓Total Enrollment: 32,323
Want a deeper comparison?
Our interactive compare tool lets you add more schools, filter by major, and see financial aid breakdowns by income level.