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Clemson University vs Harvard University

46 data points compared. Stronger value in each row highlighted. Sources: College Scorecard, Opportunity Insights, Times Higher Education, IPEDS.

9
Clemson Wins
6
Tied / N/A
31
Harvard Wins

Overview

Public
Type
Private nonprofit
Suburban
Setting
Urban
Southeast
Region
New England
23,300
Enrollment
7,601
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

38%
Acceptance Rate
4%
1353
SAT Average
1553
30
ACT Midpoint
35
1240-1410
SAT Range
1510-1580

Cost & Financial Aid

$15,554
In-State Tuition
$61,676
$40,866
Out-of-State Tuition
$61,676
$22,253
Average Net Price
$19,066
$13,607
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$8,697
$14,109
Net Price ($30-48K)
$2,991
$18,851
Net Price ($48-75K)
$2,091
$27,922
Net Price ($110K+)
$53,337
15%
Pell Grant Rate
16%
31%
Federal Loan Rate
4%

Academics

87%
Graduation Rate
97%
93%
Retention Rate
98%
88%
Full-Time Faculty
87%
$12,153
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$25,048
17%
First-Gen Students
26%

Student Body

50%
Female
50%
76%
White
31%
9%
Hispanic
12%
5%
Black
9%
3%
Asian
22%
0.41
Diversity Index
0.81

Outcomes

$58,311
Earnings (6yr)
$99,572
$65,822
Earnings (8yr)
$101,095
$71,513
Earnings (10yr)
$101,817
$21,500
Median Debt
$14,000
0.3x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.14x
78%
Earning Above HS
88%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

120.14%
Mobility Rate
175.92%
3784.3%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
5774.2%
317.5%
From Bottom 20%
304.7%
$120,200
Parent Median Income
$174,000

Social Capital

1.57
Economic Connectedness
1.69
0.01
Friending Bias
0.02
5.0%
Volunteering Rate
9.6%

Research (Times HE)

#350-400
World Rank
#1
20.8
Teaching Score
99.7
17
Research Score
98.7
25.5
Citations Score
98.8

The Overviews

Clemson University

Clemson, SC · Public

38% accept 87% grad $71,513 earnings $22,253 net

Clemson University is a great fit for students who seek a strong sense of community and a variety of academic paths. With around 23,300 undergraduates, there’s a vibrant campus life, and the acceptance rate of 38% means it’s selective but still accessible for many. Students frequently dive into programs like Business & Marketing, Engineering, and Biology & Biomedical, which are well-regarded and align with industry needs.

Looking ahead, graduates from Clemson can expect promising outcomes. The average earnings a decade after graduation sit at $71,513, which reflects the value of their education in real-world terms. While the affordability of higher education continues to be a concern, Clemson’s net price after aid is around $22,253, making it a reasonable option for many families. This financial aspect is crucial, especially when considering long-term financial mobility.

On a practical level, students here graduate with a median debt of $21,500, which is manageable given their earning potential. Those who thrive at Clemson tend to be proactive and engaged, taking advantage of both educational and extracurricular opportunities. With a graduation rate of 87%, it’s clear that many find their stride and succeed in completing their degrees, setting them up for a bright future.

Harvard University

Cambridge, MA · Private nonprofit

4% accept 97% grad $101,817 earnings $19,066 net

With an acceptance rate of just 4%, Harvard University is a place where the most driven and ambitious students find their footing. It’s especially suitable for those drawn to rigorous academic programs like Social Sciences, Biology and Biomedical Sciences, Mathematics, Computer Science, and Physical Sciences. The environment here encourages intellectual curiosity and a commitment to excellence, attracting a diverse group of scholars who are ready to engage deeply with their studies.

After graduation, the financial outlook is promising, with alumni earning an average of $101,817 within ten years. This level of earning power is a significant motivator for students considering their future. While the cost of education is an important factor, many graduates see a strong return on their investment, which makes the financial commitment worthwhile for those who can navigate the admissions process.

When we look at the practical aspects, the net price after aid stands at $19,066, and the median debt is relatively manageable at $14,000. This financial structure allows students to focus on their education without being overwhelmed by debt. Those who thrive at Harvard often share a passion for learning and a desire to make a difference in the world, making the most of the resources and opportunities available to them.

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