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Clemson highlights record applications, strong retention and new veterinary college timetable
Summary
Clemson University President Jim Clements told the House Education and Public Works Committee the university has seen application growth to roughly 62,000–65,000, strong retention and graduation rates, $338 million in research expenditures and plans to open the College of Veterinary Medicine for fall 2026.
Clemson University President Jim Clements told the House Education and Public Works Committee that the university has seen a surge in applications—nearly 62,000 last year and an expected 65,000 this year—and significant gains across admissions, retention, graduation and research.
Clements highlighted that about 62% of Clemson undergraduates are in‑state and 38% out‑of‑state, and said the university has expanded pathways for South Carolina applicants through direct admission and summer programs. “This year, we already surpassed that total, number of applications, and we're expecting about 65,000 total,” Clements said.
He cited specific student‑success metrics: a freshman‑to‑sophomore retention rate of 93.5%, a four‑year graduation rate of about 71% and a six‑year graduation rate of roughly 87%. Clements said 96% of graduates were employed, continuing education or enlisted within six months of graduation.
In research and fundraising, Clements reported $338 million in external research expenditures for the past year and private fundraising of $259 million, calling both figures all‑time highs. He thanked the General Assembly for investments that support tuition mitigation and experiential learning programs the university says help retain students in‑state.
Clements described the Harvey S. Peeler Jr. College of Veterinary Medicine as under construction and on track to welcome its first class in fall 2026. He also listed recent national student awards—Rhodes, Churchill and Gates Cambridge scholars—and noted Clemson’s athletic accomplishments and national rankings.
Clemson introduced trustees and legislative staff in the committee room; Clements named trustees Ronnie Lee, Patty Mcabee and Nikki McCarter and legislative staff including Angie Leidinger, Mark Catherin and Jarrett Breuder.
Representative Johnson and Representative Gillum asked questions and offered praise during the presentation. Clements invited committee members to Clemson Day at the State House and a Clemson reception later the same day.
