Kiplinger Ranks Clemson University Among the Best Values in Higher Education

Kiplinger magazine has rated Clemson University among the best values in public higher education in its ranking of the "100 Best Values in Public Colleges."

Clemson's ranking — 34^th for in-state students and 39^th for out-of-state students — was based on a number of factors that matched quality of education with cost. The university also was ranked 34^thfor in-state students in last year’s rankings, and 36^th for out-of-state students. Clemson is ranked highest on the best values list among South Carolina schools. 

“Each year the college selection process sees families placing a greater weight on value,” said Clemson admissions director Robert Barkley. “We had a record-breaking number of admissions applications again this year, as students and families recognize the value of the Clemson experience.”

To compile the rankings, Kiplinger compares data from nearly 600 public four-year schools, then narrows the list to about 130 based on measures of academic quality. Then the magazine ranks each school based on cost and financial aid. The magazine says quality accounts for 55 percent of each school’s rank and cost 45 percent.

The Kiplinger study is available on the magazine's website and specific data about Clemson is listed here.