College Comparison
University of South Carolina-Columbia 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
University of South Carolina-Columbia
Columbia, SC
School
Clemson University
Clemson, SC
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | South Carolina | Clemson |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 61.5% | 38.0%wins |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1180–1380 | 1230–1390wins |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 26–32 | 28–32wins |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $34,934wins | $39,498 |
| Avg Net Price | $24,532 | $22,112wins |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $62,177 | $71,513wins |
| Graduation Rate | 77.8% | 87.9%wins |
| Retention Rate | 90.7% | 92.8%wins |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 18:1 | 16:1wins |
| Total Enrollment | 28,113wins | 22,778 |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Clemson edges out South Carolina 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.
South Carolina Strengths
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $34,934
- ✓Total Enrollment: 28,113
Clemson Strengths
- ✓Acceptance Rate: 38.0%
- ✓SAT Range (25th–75th): 1230–1390
- ✓ACT Range (25th–75th): 28–32
- ✓Avg Net Price: $22,112
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