Financial Aid
Your Dream Future Is Within Reach
At Clarkson University, we’re dedicated to making your investment worth it. Because college costs can sometimes appear prohibitive, we build financial aid packages that take each student’s need into account and reward their achievements. In the process, no Clarkson student pays full tuition as they access an applied, career-ready STEM education backed by a seriously impressive return on investment (ROI).
Additionally, with one in four students on campus being the first in their families to attend college, our team is here to provide guidance throughout the financial aid process — whether that’s exploring scholarships or answering questions about the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®). As you envision your time here with equally driven peers, learn more about funding your studies and the long-term benefits of a Clarkson degree.
We're a Best Value College
100%
of Clarkson undergraduate students receive financial aid.
That means that 0% of Clarkson students pay full tuition
Nearly 60%
Of Clarkson students pay less than half of the total cost of attendance.
$41,285
Is the average yearly financial aid award for Clarkson students, compared to a national average of $7,535.
$77,735
Is the average starting salary for Clarkson graduates and increases to $82,900 within five years according to PayScale.
25%
Of Clarkson students graduate without debt, and for 80% of graduates, their debt totals less than their starting salary.
$200M
In scholarships and aid awarded to the Class of 2028
$100M
In scholarships and aid awarded to the Class of 2028
Tuition and costs
Review the total cost of attendance for the upcoming academic year — from tuition and fees to housing, books and other projected expenses — based on how you’ll attend Clarkson.
Net Price Calculator
If you’re an incoming, first-time undergraduate student, calculate how much a Clarkson education could cost based on last year’s tax return and your academic record.
Scholarships and Other Types of Financial Aid
We’re a community where leaders take shape and ideas progress into innovative concepts. Scholarships and other merit- and need-based awards support your endeavors here and harness your potential to propel you to many different places. Explore all awards available to you.
Undergraduate Students
As an incoming undergraduate, you’re eligible for institutional, federal and state need-based grants as well as several merit-based scholarships and Alumni Connection awards, along with work-study and loans. While submitting your FAFSA® places you into consideration for need-based grants, certain awards may involve a separate application.
Transfer Students
As you start the next segment of your educational journey, Clarkson opens up multiple awards to transfer students, including space in our Honors Program.
Graduate Students
Pay for your education and build your résumé with research and teaching assistantships. Clarkson also extends industrial and government fellowships, stipends, partial-tuition scholarships and corporate partner discounts to graduate students.
International Students
Our hands-on, discovery-fueled programs draw students from all over the globe. We embrace the talents and perspectives our international students bring — and we also reward them with merit-based scholarships, Honors stipends and assistantships.
The Clarkson School Students
These awards recognize your ambition and outstanding academic record as a high school student getting an early start on college — with many carrying over once you choose Clarkson University for your bachelor’s degree program.
Military and Veterans
You’ve dedicated your service to our country, and now, we dedicate ourselves to your next adventure. Understand how to apply the benefits you’ve earned toward a Clarkson education, from the Yellow Ribbon and Tuition Assistance programs to ROTC and Air Force
scholarships.
Grants and Outside Scholarships
“What’s the difference between a scholarship and a grant — and what other options do I have to pay for my education?” Our resources break down the details and point you toward additional funding.
Loans
Beyond your awards, loans help you finance your studies but need to be paid back with interest. While our institution has low default rates compared to other schools (1.6% versus a 10.1% average), you’re advised to thoroughly review this funding source, including terms and other factors, before you approve your aid package.
Ignite Presidential Fellowship
Open to incoming first-year, transfer, international and Clarkson School students, this merit-based award covers all tuition costs over eight semesters for 10 first-time students.
I decided to attend Clarkson because, as a Higher Education Opportunity Program (HEOP) student, I have amazing aid. I figured if I was getting this much financial aid, why wouldn’t I accept? I wanted to leave for college. I didn't want to stay in the city, so with my aid, I was able to go away for college like I wanted.
Adriana Gonzalez '26
Solinsky Engineers Program
Up to 100 first-year engineering students each receive $5,000 per year for all four years they attend Clarkson. Along with this scholarship, participants have access to networking opportunities, mentorship, research projects and company visits and can get a head start on their master’s.
How to Apply for Aid
The first step to receiving financial support is submitting the FAFSA®. Whether you’re applying as a first-year, transfer or graduate student, are incoming or are continuing your education, completing this form allows us to accurately select awards in line with your background. Get a step-by-step overview of this process, or review our FAQs for additional information.
Key Undergraduate Financial Aid Deadlines
December 1
Early Decision deadline for scholarships and the FAFSA® for the Fall semester.
Transfer student FAFSA® deadline for the Spring semester.
February 1
First-year student FAFSA® deadline for need-based aid.
Last day to submit recommendations for the Holcroft Alumni Recognition Awards.
February 15
Deadline to submit the Ignite Presidential Fellowship application.
April 15
Transfer student FAFSA® deadline for the Fall semester.
"I chose Clarkson University not only for the education but also for the good mentorship from truly distinguished professors and the opportunity to meet students who are equally driven and motivated. Clarkson's network of people is one of the motivating factors in my decision to attend Clarkson."
Bizimana Valesi '25
Have Questions About Financial Aid?
The Clarkson’s Office of Financial Aid and Student Achievement Services (SAS) are ready to help. Here’s how you can contact us.
Office of Financial Aid
Phone: 315-268-6413
Email: finaidletters@clarkson.edu