
8 Clarkson Avenue, Potsdam, NY 13699, USA


Clarkson University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, ensuring that it meets rigorous standards of quality and effectiveness in higher education. This regional accreditation validates the university's overall academic programs and institutional integrity, which is a key consideration for prospective students assessing the credibility of their chosen school.
The university also holds specialized accreditations for specific academic programs. For example, its engineering programs are accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET), a widely recognized agency that evaluates the quality and relevance of engineering education. This specialized accreditation assures students that the curricula adhere to industry standards and prepare graduates for professional engineering careers.
Additionally, Clarkson University's business programs have accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), a distinction held by fewer than 5% of business schools worldwide. AACSB accreditation reflects excellence in business education, including faculty qualifications, curriculum quality, and student learning outcomes.
Such programmatic accreditations provide prospective students with greater confidence in the university's ability to deliver education that meets professional standards and can enhance employability after graduation.
Clarkson University requires applicants to possess a General Educational Development (GED) certificate or an equivalent high school completion credential. Prospective students must submit their secondary school records, including GPA and class rank, as these are mandatory components of the application. Letters of recommendation are also required, while submitting additional competencies and other test scores is recommended but not obligatory. The university mandates a TOEFL score for applicants whose first language is not English.
The institution does not practice open admission and does not offer dual credit or college credit options at the time of application. However, Advanced Placement (AP) credits are accepted.
Standardized testing data reveals that Clarkson University's admitted students typically demonstrate strong academic performance. The average SAT score among enrolled students is 1280, placing them in the top 20 percent nationally. This includes an average SAT Math score of 650 and a SAT Writing score of 630, both considered high and above the 75th percentile. The mean ACT score for enrolled students is 29, ranking in the top 15 percent.
Admission selectivity is moderate, with an acceptance rate of approximately 77 percent, situating the university in the upper half for selectivity nationally. Of the 7,347 applicants, about 5,669 are admitted, with overall enrollment standing at 608 students. The enrollment figures show a difference in gender breakdown, with 209 women and 399 men enrolled, reflecting a slightly higher enrollment of males relative to females.
Clarkson University requires an application fee from prospective students to process their admission materials. This fee helps cover administrative costs associated with reviewing applications. However, the university provides options to waive this fee under certain circumstances.
Applicants eligible for fee waivers include those who demonstrate financial need, often verified through documentation such as qualification for government assistance programs or participation in specific educational initiatives. High school counselors can also submit fee waiver requests on behalf of students who meet established criteria. Additionally, part of Clarkson University's commitment to accessibility means that some applicants may have their fees waived automatically based on participation in approved college fairs or recruitment events.
Prospective students are encouraged to consult the admissions office or official university resources to determine if they qualify for an application fee waiver and to understand the required process for submitting the waiver request.
Clarkson University does not have any Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) branch units available on its campus. Prospective students seeking ROTC opportunities will need to explore options at other institutions or affiliated programs off campus.
Clarkson University welcomes transfer students for both the fall and spring semesters, offering opportunities to continue their education without interruption. The institution evaluates transfer applicants on a moderately difficult admission scale, ensuring academic standards are maintained while providing access to qualified students.
Prospective transfers can benefit from Clarkson University's acceptance of various credit examinations, including CLEP general and subject tests as well as DANTES exams, which may accelerate credit transfer and degree completion.
The university also accepts transfer credits from other accredited institutions and considers recommendations as part of the transfer admission process, allowing for a comprehensive review of an applicant's qualifications.
Clarkson University offers a variety of study abroad opportunities designed to broaden students' academic and cultural horizons. These programs include semester-long exchanges, faculty-led short-term trips, and summer immersion experiences, allowing students to engage deeply with international environments while earning academic credit.
Students may choose from partnerships in multiple countries, focusing on disciplines such as business, engineering, and environmental science. The university emphasizes integrating global perspectives into its curriculum, encouraging students to develop cross-cultural competencies essential for their professional and personal growth.
Additionally, Clarkson University provides support services to assist students in preparing for international study, including pre-departure orientations and guidance on travel logistics. This structure aims to make international education accessible and manageable for a diverse student body.
Median composite SAT score
1280Median composite ACT score
29Percent of students submitting ACT scores
8.06%Percent of students submitting SAT scores
48.5%High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
NoComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
YesSecondary school GPA
RequiredSecondary school rank
RequiredSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
Data not availableRecommendations
RequiredFormal demonstration of competencies
RecommendedAdmission test scores
Data not availableTOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language
RequiredOther Test (Wonderlic, WISC-III, etc.)
RecommendedOpen admission policy
NoDual credit
NoCredit for life experiences
NoAdvanced placement (AP) credits
YesOrientation program
YesDisabilities services
YesOff-campus study
YesROTC-Army
ROTC branch unit on campusROTC-Air Force
ROTC branch unit on campusStudy abroad
YesWeekend/evening college
YesStudent can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization
YesPreparation at another institution required
NoApproved by the state for initial certification or licensure of teacher
YesEntrance difficulty for transfer students
ModerateGenerally accepts credits
YesAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall, Spring