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Clemson University vs Princeton University

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

8
Clemson Wins
5
Tied / N/A
33
Princeton Wins

Overview

Public
Type
Private nonprofit
Suburban
Setting
Urban
Southeast
Region
Mid-Atlantic
23,300
Enrollment
5,709
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

38%
Acceptance Rate
5%
1353
SAT Average
1553
30
ACT Midpoint
34
1240-1410
SAT Range
1510-1580

Cost & Financial Aid

$15,554
In-State Tuition
$62,688
$40,866
Out-of-State Tuition
$62,688
$22,253
Average Net Price
$6,128
$13,607
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$41
$14,109
Net Price ($30-48K)
$352
$18,851
Net Price ($48-75K)
$1,217
$27,922
Net Price ($110K+)
$36,094
15%
Pell Grant Rate
19%
31%
Federal Loan Rate
2%

Academics

87%
Graduation Rate
97%
93%
Retention Rate
98%
88%
Full-Time Faculty
87%
$12,153
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$25,354
17%
First-Gen Students
28%

Student Body

50%
Female
51%
76%
White
34%
9%
Hispanic
10%
5%
Black
9%
3%
Asian
23%
0.41
Diversity Index
0.79

Outcomes

$58,311
Earnings (6yr)
$87,815
$65,822
Earnings (8yr)
$112,152
$71,513
Earnings (10yr)
$110,066
$21,500
Median Debt
$10,320
0.3x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.09x
78%
Earning Above HS
83%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

120.14%
Mobility Rate
134.58%
3784.3%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
6586.5%
317.5%
From Bottom 20%
204.3%
$120,200
Parent Median Income
$218,100

Social Capital

1.57
Economic Connectedness
1.88
0.01
Friending Bias
-0.00
5.0%
Volunteering Rate
10.8%

Research (Times HE)

#350-400
World Rank
#5
20.8
Teaching Score
90.9
17
Research Score
95.4
25.5
Citations Score
99.9

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.

Princeton University

Princeton, NJ · Private nonprofit

5% accept 97% grad $110,066 earnings $6,128 net

With an acceptance rate of just 5%, Princeton University is not for everyone, but for those who make the cut, it’s a place where ambition meets opportunity. The school attracts bright minds, particularly in fields like Social Sciences, Engineering, Computer Science, and Biology. Students here are often deeply engaged in their studies, working alongside faculty who are leaders in their fields. This kind of environment fosters not just learning but also a strong sense of community among peers.

After graduation, the benefits of attending Princeton are clear. Alumni can expect an impressive average earning of $110,066 within a decade of finishing their degrees. This speaks volumes about the value of a Princeton education, especially when considering the high graduation rate of 97%. The school’s focus on producing skilled graduates who excel in their careers contributes significantly to their long-term success.

When it comes to finances, the net price after aid is manageable at $6,128, and the median debt stands at $10,320. This means many graduates leave with a realistic financial outlook, allowing them to focus on their careers rather than being weighed down by overwhelming debt. Students who thrive here often come from diverse backgrounds, bringing a variety of perspectives that enhance classroom discussions and campus life.

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