Clark University

Clark University, located in Worcester, Massachusetts, is a private liberal arts research institution founded in 1887. Initially established as the first all-graduate university in the United States, it began offering undergraduate programmes in 1902. Clark University emphasises a liberal arts education, providing students with a broad introduction to various disciplines. The curriculum includes over 50 undergraduate majors, minors, and interdisciplinary concentrations, allowing students to tailor their educational experiences.

Things To Consider Before Applying

Applying to your desired university requires a fair amount of work before starting. Preparing crucial documents and degree percentages can decide your course of action. 

Entry Requirements

Clark University entry requirements differ for every programme. They may include specific academic qualifications, submitting a portfolio of your work, or attending an audition. It is crucial to review the entry requirements for your chosen programme and confirm that you meet them before applying. 

Undergraduate Entry Requirements
 

1. Application: Submit either the Common Application or the Coalition Application with Scoir.
2. Transcripts: Provide transcripts for the last three years of education. These can be submitted through the application platforms or emailed directly to the admissions office.
3. Letters of Recommendation: Two letters are required—one from a school counsellor and one from a teacher.
4. English Language Proficiency: Proof of English proficiency is required for non-native English speakers. Acceptable tests and minimum scores include:
   • TOEFL iBT: 85 overall, with no sub-score below 20
   • IELTS: 6.5 overall, with no sub-score below 6
   • Duolingo: 120 overall, with no sub-score below 100
   • PTE: 61 overall, with no sub-score below 55
5. Standardised Test Scores: SAT or ACT scores are optional and not required for admission.
6. Application Fee: There is no application fee.

Graduate Entry Requirements

1. Application: Complete the graduate application through the Clark University website. Students can also apply with the help of UniScholars website. 
2. Transcripts: Submit official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended, showing an earned degree.
3. GPA: A minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale is typically required.
4. Letters of Recommendation: Two or three letters are usually required, depending on the programme.
5. GRE/GMAT Scores: These may be required for certain programmes, but waivers are available based on specific criteria.
6. English Language Proficiency: For international applicants, proof of English proficiency is required, similar to undergraduate requirements.
7. Application Fee: A non-refundable fee of $75 must accompany the application.

Additional Considerations

• Interviews: Optional interviews may be available for undergraduate applicants to provide additional context to their applications.
• Deferral Policy: Admitted students may defer their admission for up to one year.

These requirements ensure that applicants are well-prepared for the academic challenges at Clark University, whether they are entering as undergraduates or pursuing graduate studies. Students can contact UniScholars for up-to-date information on the entry requirements. Our experts are available 24x7 to guide you through all the required documents and inform you of your eligibility to apply for a specific course.

Documents

Gathering all necessary Clark University documents in advance can help streamline your application. This includes academic transcripts, certificates, and any applicable language proficiency test scores. Ensuring all required documents are ready before the application process can prevent delays and complications. Below is a list of general documents required from every student: 

Undergraduate Application Documents
 

1. Application Form: Complete the Common Application or Coalition Application with Scoir.
2. Transcripts:
   • Official transcripts from the last three years of education.
   • Transcripts can be submitted through the application platforms or emailed directly to the admissions office.
3. Letters of Recommendation:
   • Two letters are required—one from a school counsellor and one from a teacher.
   • Recommendations can be submitted via the application platforms or emailed directly.
4. Personal Statement/Essay: Write an essay detailing your personal experiences and interests on one of the provided topics.
5. Proof of English Language Proficiency (for non-native speakers):
   • Acceptable tests include TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, or Pearson PTE, with specific minimum scores required.
6. Standardised Test Scores:
   • SAT or ACT scores are optional for all students.
7. Application Fee: There is no application fee for undergraduate applicants.

Graduate Application Documents

1. Application Form: Complete the graduate application through the Clark University website. Students can also apply with the help of UniScholars website. 
2. Transcripts:
   • Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
3. Letters of Recommendation:
   • Typically, two or three letters are required, depending on the programme.
4. GPA Requirement:
   • A minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale is generally expected.
5. Standardised Test Scores:
   • GRE or GMAT scores may be required for certain programmes, but waivers are available based on specific criteria.
6. Proof of English Language Proficiency (for international applicants): Similar requirements for undergraduate applicants.
7. Application Fee: A non-refundable fee of $75 must accompany the application.

Additional Information

• Interviews: Optional interviews may be available for both undergraduate and graduate applicants.
• CSS Profile: Required for those applying for need-based financial aid.
   

How To Apply To Clark University?

Clark University has a well-sought application process with distinct procedures for undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. Students must apply well in advance to make things easy and understandable. Below is the detailed information needed for enrolling in Bachelors and Masters programmes at Clark University:

Undergraduate Admission

1. Choose an Application Plan: Clark offers Early Decision, Early Action, and Regular Decision plans for first-year applicants.
2. Complete the Common Application or Coalition Application: Submit the application along with the required $50 application fee.
3. Submit Supporting Documents:
   • Official high school transcripts
   • At least two letters of recommendation
   • SAT or ACT test scores (optional)
   • Personal essay
4. Apply for Financial Aid: Complete the FAFSA and CSS Profile if applying for need-based aid.
5. Submit Application by Deadline:
   • Early Decision: November 15
   • Early Action: November 15
   • Regular Decision: January 15

Transfer Admission

1. Complete the Clark Transfer Application: Submit the application online.
2. Submit Supporting Documents:
   • Official college transcripts
   • High school transcript
   • Letters of recommendation
   • SAT or ACT scores (optional)
3. Apply for Financial Aid: Complete the FAFSA and CSS Profile.
4. Submit Application: Transfer applications are accepted on a rolling basis.

Graduate Admission

1. Complete the Graduate Application: Submit the application online along with the $50 application fee.
2. Submit Supporting Documents:
   • Official transcripts from all colleges attended
   • Letters of recommendation
   • GRE or GMAT scores (may be required for some programmes)
   • Personal statement
3. Apply for Financial Aid: Complete the FAFSA if applying for federal aid.
4. Submit Application by Deadline: Deadlines vary by programme.

Clark has been test-optional since 2012, allowing applicants to choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores. The university also offers optional interviews for first-year and transfer applicants.

Deadlines

Clark University deadlines for admissions are specific and vary by applicant type and semester. For undergraduate applicants, the Early Decision deadline is November 15, while the Early Decision II and Regular Decision deadlines are both set for January 15. Additionally, for graduate programmes, the priority deadline for the Fall semester is February 15, with a final deadline of June 3. For the Spring semester, the priority deadline is August 15, and the final deadline is October 16. For the Summer semester, the priority deadline is April 4, and the final deadline is May 15. It is advisable for all applicants, especially international students, to apply at least a month prior to these deadlines to allow sufficient time for immigration and visa documentation.

Decision Dates

The decision dates for admissions vary depending on the type of application submitted. Applicants can expect to receive decisions within a few weeks of applying for undergraduate programmes. Clark University communicates the outcome via email and updates the applicant portal accordingly.

Undergraduate Decision Dates

• Early Decision I
  • Deadline: November 1
  • Notification: Late December
• Early Action
  • Deadline: November 1
  • Notification: Mid-January
• Early Decision II
  • Deadline: January 15
  • Notification: Early February
• Regular Decision
  • Deadline: January 15
  • Notification: Late March

Transfer Decision Dates

• Fall Semester Transfers
  • Application Period: February 1 to May 1
  • Notification: Rolling decisions within four weeks
• Spring Semester Transfers
  • Application Period: September 1 to November 1
  • Notification: Rolling decisions within four weeks

It is recommended that all applicants submit their materials well in advance of these deadlines to ensure a smooth application process.

Clark University Selection Criteria

Clark University employs a holistic approach in its selection criteria for admissions, focusing on various aspects of each application to determine suitability for the chosen course. Here are the critical components of the selection criteria:

• English Language Proficiency: International students must demonstrate proficiency through standardised tests:
  • TOEFL: Minimum score of 85
  • IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5
  • Duolingo: Minimum score of 120
• Standardised Test Scores: SAT and ACT scores are optional, but the average SAT scores range from 1218 to 1403, and the average ACT scores range from 27 to 30.
• Letters of Recommendation: Two letters are required—one from a school counsellor and one from a teacher. As per the programme, two to three letters are required for postgraduates.
• Personal Statement/Essay: A personal essay is required, allowing applicants to showcase their interests and experiences.
• Interview: International students are highly recommended to participate in an interview with the admissions committee.
• Application Materials: Applicants must submit official transcripts, a personal statement, and any additional required documents specific to their programme.
   

Clark University values practical experience and a well-rounded application, making a strong personal statement essential for success in the admissions process.

Clark University Acceptance Rate

Clark University’s acceptance rate is approximately 41.6%, indicating that it is moderately selective in its admissions process. This acceptance rate reflects a decline from previous years, where the rate was around 48% for Fall 2021 and 47.1% for Fall 2020. The university also has a notable acceptance rate of 86.6% for international students as of Fall 2022. Overall, Clark University is competitive, and prospective students are encouraged to present strong academic credentials and supporting materials to enhance their chances of admission.

Fees

Clark University fees can vary based on your programme of study and whether you are a domestic or international student. This will give you a comprehensive understanding of the costs and help you plan accordingly. Here's an overview of the fees:

Undergraduate tuition for the current academic year is $57,440. However, 85% of students receive financial aid, with the average package exceeding $30,000. Merit scholarships range from $14,000 to $20,000 annually for four years.

Clark University offers a range of tuition fees for its postgraduate programmes. For the current academic year, the tuition for graduate programmes typically ranges between $30,000 and $62,700 per year, depending on the specific programme. In addition to tuition, students should also consider other expenses such as living costs, which average around $74,475 annually for graduate students.

Additional fees may include:

• Student Activity Fee: Approximately $427
• Health and Wellness Fee: Around $600
• Health Insurance: Estimated at $2,390 for the academic year.

These fees contribute to the overall cost of attendance, which can vary based on the student's lifestyle and specific programme requirements. Clark University is committed to affordability and provides various financial aid options to help students manage their education expenses.