Total Cost Comparison (4 Years)
Estimated sticker price before financial aid.
Auburn
$184,336
4-year total (out-of-state)
VS
Clemson
$207,504
4-year total (out-of-state)
After average financial aid, estimated net cost: Auburn = $137,936 | Clemson = $158,304. Your actual cost may differ. Use each school's Net Price Calculator for a personalized estimate.
Auburn Top Majors
EngineeringBusinessBiologyNursingAgricultureClemson Top Majors
EngineeringBusinessBiologyNursingComputer Science
Need Help Choosing Between Auburn & Clemson?
Get free personalized guidance from college admissions experts. Application strategy, essay reviews, and financial aid help.
Get Free College Guidance →
✓ 100% free consultation
✓ Expert admissions advisors
✓ No obligation
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Auburn or Clemson harder to get into?+
Clemson is more selective with an acceptance rate of 43.0% compared to 75.0%. Both schools look at GPA, test scores, extracurriculars, essays, and recommendations in their admissions process.
Which is cheaper, Auburn or Clemson?+
At sticker price, Auburn costs less over 4 years ($184,336 vs $207,504). However, financial aid can dramatically change the actual cost. Auburn offers an average of $11,600/year in aid while Clemson offers $12,300/year. Always compare your actual net price after aid.
What are the average SAT scores for Auburn and Clemson?+
The average SAT score at Auburn is 1270 and at Clemson it is 1320. Keep in mind that admitted students often score across a range, and many schools practice holistic admissions where test scores are just one factor.
Do Auburn or Clemson graduates earn more?+
Graduates of Clemson have a higher average starting salary ($62,500 vs $60,200). Salary outcomes vary significantly by major, industry, and location — so this is a general average across all graduates.
What is the student-to-faculty ratio at each school?+
Auburn has a 19:1 student-to-faculty ratio while Clemson has 16:1. A lower ratio generally means smaller class sizes and more individual attention from professors.
How do Auburn and Clemson compare for campus life?+
Auburn is located in Auburn, Alabama (suburban setting) with a 1,841-acre campus. Clemson is in Clemson, South Carolina (rural setting) with 1,400 acres. Auburn competes in NCAA D1 athletics and Clemson in NCAA D1.