Clemson University values the work high school guidance counselors do in challenging the minds of students. Our goal is to give you the tools you need to help your college-bound students learn about us and have the information needed when applying for enrollment. If you do not find something here that you need, please call the Office of Admissions directly at (864) 656-2287.
Please make note of our Counselor Breakfasts, which are held each fall around the region.
High School Course Prerequisites for Clemson Freshmen
A high school diploma required; GED is accepted.
Most students accepted at Clemson have taken college preparatory programs in high school. Clemson expects applicants for freshman admission for the 2008-2009 academic year to complete the following courses in high school:
English – 4 credits
All four courses must have strong grammar and composition components, with at least one in English literature and at least one in American literature. College preparatory English I, II, III and IV will meet these requirements.
Mathematics – 3 credits
These include algebra I (for which applied mathematics I and II may count together as a substitute if a student successfully completes algebra II), algebra II and geometry.
Laboratory Science – 3 credits
Two must be selected from biology I, chemistry I or physics I. Physical science does not normally count as a lab science.
Foreign Language – 3 credits*
All credits must be earned in the same language.
Social Sciences – 3 credits
American history is required. A half credit of government and a half credit of economics are also recommended.
Other – 2 credits
One of these must be a fourth year of mathematics, laboratory science or foreign language. Students interested in engineering are strongly encouraged to take a fourth year of mathematics. This course should be selected from precalculus, calculus, statistics or discrete mathematics. The second credit must be in advanced mathematics, computer science or a combination of these; or one unit of world history, world geography or Western civilization.
Physical Education/ROTC – 1 credit
Students who have completed fewer than three credits of the same foreign language are encouraged to apply. Any documentation provided by the high school guidance staff explaining the reason(s) this requirement could not be fulfilled will be considered when reviewing the student’s application.