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College Comparison

Florida State University vs Clemson University: Which is Better?

Side-by-side comparison of acceptance rates, SAT scores, tuition, earnings, and more, updated with the latest College Scorecard data.

School

Florida State University

Tallahassee, FL

School

Clemson University

Clemson, SC

Head-to-Head Stats

MetricFlorida StateClemson
Acceptance Rate25.4%wins38.0%
SAT Range (25th–75th)1240–1390wins1230–1390
ACT Range (25th–75th)27–3128–32wins
Tuition (Out-of-State)$18,786wins$39,498
Avg Net Price$10,997wins$22,112
Median Earnings (10 yr)$61,675$71,513wins
Graduation Rate83.0%87.9%wins
Retention Rate95.6%wins92.8%
Student–Faculty Ratio17:116:1wins
Total Enrollment31,812wins22,778

Verdict

Based on the data above, Florida State edges out Clemson on 6 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.

Florida State Strengths

  • Acceptance Rate: 25.4%
  • SAT Range (25th–75th): 1240–1390
  • Tuition (Out-of-State): $18,786
  • Avg Net Price: $10,997

Clemson Strengths

  • ACT Range (25th–75th): 28–32
  • Median Earnings (10 yr): $71,513
  • Graduation Rate: 87.9%
  • Student–Faculty Ratio: 16:1

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