Clemson University, located in South Carolina, is one of the nation’s top public research universities. It is especially popular among students in engineering, business, agriculture, and health sciences. As families consider Clemson, one of the most important questions is: What does it cost to attend?
Understanding tuition, housing, meal plans, fees, and financial aid is key to preparing for the Clemson experience. This guide breaks down the total cost of attendance (COA) for in-state and out-of-state students.
Tuition Costs at Clemson University
Clemson charges different tuition rates for South Carolina residents (in-state) and non-residents (out-of-state).
| Academic Year 2024–2025 | In-State Tuition | Out-of-State Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate (Full-Time) | ~$15,500 per year | ~$40,000 per year |
| Graduate Programs | $12,000–$18,000 (varies by program) | $25,000–$35,000 (varies by program) |
Clemson’s tuition is charged per credit hour, but full-time students typically pay a flat rate. Out-of-state students pay nearly three times the in-state cost, which makes residency status very important.
Mandatory Student Fees
In addition to tuition, Clemson charges fees to support student services, campus technology, health centers, and athletics.
- Student Activity Fee: ~$1,500 per year
- Technology Fee: ~$500 per year
- Course/Lab Fees: Varies depending on the program
Housing and Meal Plans
Most first- and second-year students are required to live on campus. Clemson provides a wide range of residence hall options and dining plans.
Housing Costs
- Traditional Residence Halls: $7,000–$9,000 per year
- Suite-Style Housing: $9,500–$11,000 per year
- Apartment-Style Housing: $11,500–$13,500 per year
Meal Plans
Clemson offers multiple dining options:
- Basic Meal Plan: $4,000–$4,500 per year
- Unlimited Meal Plan: $5,000–$5,500 per year
Additional Expenses to Consider
Beyond tuition, fees, housing, and meals, students should budget for personal and academic costs.
- Books & Supplies: $1,200–$1,500 annually
- Transportation: $1,000–$2,000 annually (depends on location)
- Personal Expenses: $2,000–$3,000 annually
Adding everything together, the total cost of attendance (COA) is:
- In-State Students: $28,000–$32,000 per year
- Out-of-State Students: $50,000–$55,000 per year
Financial Aid and Scholarships at Clemson
Clemson offers multiple financial aid opportunities to help reduce costs:
- Merit-Based Scholarships – For high-achieving students, both in-state and out-of-state.
- Need-Based Aid – Based on FAFSA results and family income.
- State Scholarships – South Carolina students may qualify for LIFE, Palmetto Fellows, or HOPE scholarships.
- Work-Study Programs – Allowing students to earn money through on-campus jobs.
Many in-state students at Clemson end up paying significantly less than the sticker price because of these scholarship programs.
Comparing Clemson Costs with Other Universities
| University | In-State COA | Out-of-State COA |
|---|---|---|
| Clemson University | $28K–$32K | $50K–$55K |
| University of South Carolina | $27K–$31K | $47K–$52K |
| University of Georgia | $25K–$30K | $47K–$52K |
| NC State University | $25K–$30K | $45K–$50K |
Clemson’s costs are competitive with other large public universities in the Southeast but still represent a significant financial commitment for out-of-state families.
Tips for Managing Costs at Clemson
- Apply Early for Scholarships: Clemson has priority deadlines for merit aid.
- Maximize State Aid: South Carolina residents should explore state-funded scholarships.
- Budget Carefully: Factor in textbooks, transportation, and social expenses.
- Consider On-Campus Jobs: Many students offset personal costs through part-time work.
Final Thoughts
Clemson University provides a high-value education with strong academics, school spirit, and career support. While out-of-state tuition is costly, in-state students benefit from affordable rates, and financial aid can reduce the burden for many families. With careful planning, Clemson can be an attainable and rewarding choice for students.
FAQs About Clemson University Cost
Q1. How much does it cost to attend Clemson per year?
For 2024–2025, the total cost of attendance is about $28K–$32K for in-state students and $50K–$55K for out-of-state students.
Q2. Is Clemson more expensive for out-of-state students?
Yes. Out-of-state tuition is about three times higher than in-state tuition.
Q3. Does Clemson offer full-ride scholarships?
Yes. Highly competitive programs such as the National Scholars Program provide full tuition, housing, and additional benefits.
Q4. What is the average financial aid package at Clemson?
Most students receive some form of aid. On average, packages range from $10,000–$15,000 per year depending on merit and need.
Q5. Can upperclassmen live off-campus to save money?
Yes. Juniors and seniors can live off-campus, and many find housing that can be more affordable than university residences.
