Clark University | Admissions, Tuition & Programs Overview

Clark University was established in 1887 by Jonas Gilman Clark, a visionary businessman who aimed to create a unique institution that combined the strengths of both American and European universities. When it opened its doors in 1889, it proudly became the first all-graduate university in the United States, focusing on advanced studies in fields like mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology, and psychology. The university's mission is to educate both undergraduate and graduate students, nurturing them into imaginative and engaged citizens of the world. Clark University fosters a culture of rigorous scholarship and encourages creative pursuits, equipping students to tackle the challenges of our ever-changing and complex society.

Rankings and Accreditations

Clark University is highly ranked both in the US and around the world, which shows its dedication to research and academic excellence. These rankings show how well the university does in a number of areas, such as how well its students are satisfied, how well its research is published, and how well its academic reputation is.

Clark University Rankings

Note: Rankings are subject to change annually based on various factors.

These rankings show how committed Clark University is to giving students a good education and encouraging research.

Academic Programs at Clark University

People know Clark University for its unique and cross-disciplinary way of teaching. Clark University Worcester has a curriculum based on liberal arts traditions and modern research applications, whether you're an undergraduate looking into different subjects or a graduate student looking to gain more knowledge in a specific field. The university offers a wide range of programs that encourage students to be intellectually curious and global citizens.

Clark University Degrees & Top Programs Table

Clark University Admission Process Clark University

The Clark University admissions process is meant to be clear and easy for students from all academic and cultural backgrounds to understand. Clark looks at the whole person and their academic potential when they apply for an undergraduate, graduate, or professional degree.

Eligibility Criteria

Undergraduate Applicants:

• Completion of secondary education (high school diploma or equivalent)
• Strong academic record, especially in core subjects
• Optional SAT/ACT scores (Clark is test-optional)
• Demonstrated extracurricular engagement and leadership

Graduate Applicants:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
• Minimum GPA of 3.0 (varies slightly by program)
• GRE/GMAT may be required for some programs, like the MBA
• Work experience is preferred for some professional tracks

Application Timeline and Deadlines

Clark University also has a priority scholarship deadline for undergraduate applicants on January 15.

Required Documents

Undergraduate Students:

• Completed Common Application
• Official high school transcripts
• One counselor recommendation
• One teacher recommendation
• Personal statement
• Optional: SAT/ACT scores

Graduate Students:

• Completed application form (program-specific portal)
• Official university transcripts
• Letters of recommendation (typically 2-3)
• Statement of purpose
• Resume/CV
• Standardized test scores (if applicable)

Entrance Exams and Interviews

• Some graduate programs require the GRE or GMAT, but undergraduates don't have to take standardized tests.
• English proficiency is required for non-native speakers through the TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test.
• Interviews: Not required for undergraduates, but they are strongly encouraged. As part of the review process, graduate programs may ask for interviews.

Tuition, Scholarships, and Financial Aid at Clark University

Clark has a lot of ways to help you get a good education, from full tuition plans to a lot of scholarships and other forms of financial aid. This section has everything you need to know about the Clark University cost, whether you're an undergraduate or graduate student. It includes information about tuition, merit-based awards, and work-study opportunities.

Tuition Fees Overview

The Clark University cost changes based on the program and level of study. The university has a clear annual fee structure that includes tuition, room and board, and other costs like student fees and health insurance.

Note: Health insurance is required but can be waived with proof of existing coverage.

Clark University Scholarships

Clark University is known for having a lot of scholarships that reward students for doing well in school, being a leader, and being a good global citizen. A lot of these scholarships can be renewed for four years based on how well you do in school.

Undergraduate Scholarships:

• Presidential LEEP Scholarship: Full tuition, room, and board; requires a separate application.
• Clark Merit Scholarship: Ranges from $14,000 to $26,000 per year; automatically considered with application.
• International Traina Scholarship: $20,000/year for international students demonstrating outstanding academic achievement.

Graduate Scholarships:

• Graduate Assistantships: Offered across many departments; includes tuition discounts and stipends.
• Accelerated Degree Program (Fifth Year Free): Eligible undergraduates can earn a master’s degree tuition-free in the fifth year.
• External Fellowships: Graduate students are encouraged to apply for awards like the Fulbright or the NSF.

When students apply for merit scholarships, all of them are considered, and most undergraduate awards don't require a separate form.

Financial Aid Options

Clark University is part of federal, state, and institutional financial aid programs. U.S. citizens and permanent residents should fill out the FAFSA (Clark's FAFSA code is 002139).

Types of Financial Aid Offered:

• Need-Based Grants: Offered through Clark and government programs based on demonstrated financial need.
• Federal Student Loans: Subsidized and unsubsidized loans are available through FAFSA.
• Parent PLUS Loans: For parents of dependent undergraduates.

Clark meets a substantial portion of demonstrated financial need and commits to making a private education more accessible through need-based aid packages.

Student Apartments near Clark University

Clark University has a lot of different types of housing on campus, from traditional dorms to suites and apartments. Most first-year students live on campus, which helps build a strong sense of community.

On-campus Housing at Clark University

• Dodd Hall, Wright Hall, and Johnson Sanford Center are popular places for first-year students to live. These halls are for both men and women and have shared spaces like kitchens, study rooms, and lounges.
• Upperclassmen can live in apartments and suites, such as Maywood Street Apartments and Blackstone Hall. These give you more freedom because they have private bedrooms and shared living spaces.
• LLCs, or Living-Learning Communities: Themed housing options that match students' interests or academic goals, like Honors housing or Sustainability housing.

Clark University Off-Campus Housing

After a year or two on campus, or if you're a returning graduate, many students select to live off-campus due to increased independence, flexibility, and usually, a slightly cheaper rent. Whether you're looking for a small studio, or you’re sharing an apartment with friends, you can typically find a range of student-friendly accommodation in the neighborhoods surrounding. If you plan to search for off-campus housing, be sure to start your search early and consider factors such as safety, commute time, and monthly costs, (rent + utilities). From the list of options with all of these considerations checked off, it is easier to find housing in your new community that best fits your lifestyle, pocket-book and academics. Clark University makes sure that all of its residential students have access to 24-hour security, the internet, laundry facilities, and trained residential advisors (RAs) who can help them.

Clark University Notable Alumni

Clark University has a global alumni network of innovators, changemakers, and thought leaders in many fields. These graduates are great examples of how a Clark education can change lives. Many of them come back to ClarkCONNECT to help current students.

Prominent Alumni Include:

Clark alumni are also well-represented in academia, public service, tech startups, and nonprofit leadership roles, demonstrating the broad utility of a Clark degree.