Clemson University is the best university in South Carolina according to recent rankings by Forbes and U.S. News & World Report. Clemson also received a green light rating in the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression’s (FIRE) 2027 College Free Speech Rankings.
The Forbes list recognizes colleges that produce high-earning, successful and influential graduates from all economic backgrounds with less student debt. Each year, Clemson awards financial aid in the form of grants, scholarships, loans and part-time employment to more than 20,000 students. Ninety-seven percent of first-time in-state students receive state scholarships, while a majority of Clemson’s graduates (57 percent) have no student debt compared with 40 percent statewide and 39 percent nationally.
U.S. News & World Report ranks Clemson tied for No. 37 among public universities. Clemson also ranks No. 18 nationally for Co-Ops/Internships and tied for No. 8 among public universities in First-Year Experiences. Sixty-five percent of graduates participate in at least one experiential education opportunity, including a co-op, internship, student teaching or nursing practicum, during their time at Clemson.
The U.S. News & World Report also spotlights the Clemson University School of Nursing, which is tied for No. 14 among public universities and No. 19 overall for Bachelor of Science in Nursing Programs. The School of Nursing is a nationally recognized leader in nursing education, research and service, preparing compassionate, skilled nurses and healthcare leaders to make a meaningful impact in communities across South Carolina and beyond. Through hands-on learning, groundbreaking research and a focus on improving health outcomes, Clemson nursing equips students and faculty to address the evolving challenges of healthcare with confidence and purpose.
FIRE’s green light rating recognizes colleges and universities whose policies do not seriously imperil speech.
These recognitions build on Clemson’s strong showing in rankings published in August. Niche ranked Clemson the best college in South Carolina and No. 2 nationally for Best College Locations in America, with top 10 national rankings for Best College Athletics and Best Student Life. Time magazine’s inaugural America’s Best Colleges 2026–2027 rankings recognized Clemson for having the state’s best student outcomes. Niche also ranked Clemson No. 1 in South Carolina for athletics, campus, academics, professors, student life, business, psychology, biology, education, computer science, accounting and finance, English, nursing, research, and economics.
