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Clarkson University

8 Clarkson Avenue, Potsdam, NY 13699, USA

Clarkson University award
Clarkson University award
US ranking
position: 493
Tuition & fees per year: $61,148
Acceptance rate: 77.00%
Median alumni salary: $72,875
Avg. SAT and ACT: 1280 SAT, 29 ACT
Entrance difficulty: Moderate

What is the accreditation of Clarkson University?

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.

What are the admission requirements at Clarkson University?

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.

What are the application fees and waivers at Clarkson University?

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.

What types of ROTC programs are available at Clarkson University?

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.

What are the requirements for transfer students at Clarkson University?

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.

What types of study abroad programs are available at Clarkson University?

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.

Clarkson University Admissions Factors

Avg. SAT score 1280
SAT Composite median score for all enrolled full-time and part-time first-year degree-seeking students
Avg. ACT score 29
ACT Composite median score for all enrolled full-time and part-time first-year degree-seeking students.
Acceptance rate 77%

Clarkson University Admissions

Applicants Total: 7,347
Admission Total: 5,669
Enrolled Total: 608
Women
Men

Clarkson University Admission Requirements

Median composite SAT score

1280

Median composite ACT score

29

Percent of students submitting ACT scores

8.06%

Percent of students submitting SAT scores

48.5%

High school completions

General Educational Development (GED) required

Computer required

No

Computer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution

Yes

Secondary school GPA

Required

Secondary school rank

Required

Secondary school record

Required

Completion of college-preparatory program

Data not available

Recommendations

Required

Formal demonstration of competencies

Recommended

Admission test scores

Data not available

TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language

Required

Other Test (Wonderlic, WISC-III, etc.)

Recommended

Open admission policy

No

Dual credit

No

Credit for life experiences

No

Advanced placement (AP) credits

Yes

Special learning opportunities

Orientation program

Yes

Disabilities services

Yes

Off-campus study

Yes

ROTC-Army

ROTC branch unit on campus

ROTC-Air Force

ROTC branch unit on campus

Study abroad

Yes

Weekend/evening college

Yes

Student can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization

Yes

Preparation at another institution required

No

Approved by the state for initial certification or licensure of teacher

Yes

Clarkson University Transfer Acceptance Rate

Entrance difficulty for transfer students

Moderate

Generally accepts credits

Yes

Accept ACE recommendation for credit

Yes

Possible transfer

Fall, Spring