College Comparison
Rutgers 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
Rutgers University
New Brunswick, NJ
School
Clemson University
Clemson, SC
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Rutgers | Clemson |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 65.3% | 38.0%wins |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1270–1480wins | 1230–1390 |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 28–33 | 28–32 |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $36,001wins | $39,498 |
| Avg Net Price | $23,519 | $22,112wins |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $74,479wins | $71,513 |
| Graduation Rate | 85.0% | 87.9%wins |
| Retention Rate | 92.6% | 92.8%wins |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 15:1wins | 16:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 36,357wins | 22,778 |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Rutgers edges out Clemson on 5 of 9 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.
Rutgers Strengths
- ✓SAT Range (25th–75th): 1270–1480
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $36,001
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $74,479
- ✓Student–Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Clemson Strengths
- ✓Acceptance Rate: 38.0%
- ✓Avg Net Price: $22,112
- ✓Graduation Rate: 87.9%
- ✓Retention Rate: 92.8%
Want a deeper comparison?
Our interactive compare tool lets you add more schools, filter by major, and see financial aid breakdowns by income level.