If you’re a Clarkie, we want to help you get here.
Through generous need-based aid and merit scholarships, we seek to make a Clark education affordable for every student regardless of income level.
99%
of first-year students receive aid
$45,545
average financial aid package
98%
of all aid awarded are grants that do not have to be repaid
#37
Best Value Schools
(U.S. News and World Report)
Cost of attendance 2025-2026
| Expenses | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition | $59,680 |
| Room (standard double) | $8,250 |
| Board (standard plan) | $5,450 |
| Student Activity & Programming Fee | $440 |
| Orientation Fee | $400 |
| Health and Wellness Fee | $620 |
| Total Billed Charges | $74,840 |
| Other possible expenses | |
| Transportation allowance | $250 |
| Books (estimated) | $900 |
| Miscellaneous (estimated) | $800 |
| Health Insurance* | $2,495 |
| Total Estimated Costs | $79,285 |
*In accordance with Massachusetts State Law, Clark University requires all matriculated full-time and three-quarter-time students to participate in the Student Health Insurance Plan unless proof of comprehensive comparable coverage under a policy filed and approved in the U.S. is provided. More about health insurance.
Types of financial aid
A college education is a significant investment in your future, and we strive to make a Clark education accessible to students from all financial backgrounds. Over 95% of students receive some form of aid from Clark, either merit-based, need-based or both.
Merit-based financial aid
Merit-based financial aid or scholarships are based on your achievements, academic performance, and personal qualities. Some scholarships come from foundations, non-profits, governments, companies, and, of course, colleges and universities. Clark offers several different merit- and achievement-based scholarships. All applicants are automatically considered for these scholarships alongside your application to Clark.
Clark merit scholarships
Merit scholarships are based on your academic performance and potential, accomplishments and talents, and personal qualities you bring to Clark. You are automatically considered for Clark’s merit scholarships; there is no need for a separate application. Merit scholarship decisions are made without consideration of financial need.
Presidential Scholarship
The Presidential Scholarship is a highly esteemed scholarship awarded to approximately five exceptional students annually. It recognizes individuals who stand out due to their outstanding academic achievements and leadership potential. The Presidential Scholarship covers the full costs of tuition, as well as on-campus housing and meals, for the four years of undergraduate study. Students must apply by the admissions deadline to be considered for the Presidential Scholarship.
Private scholarships
You may be eligible for additional scholarships offered by local, statewide, and national organizations.
Need-based financial aid
Need-based financial aid is offered to a student based on their family’s financial circumstances. Need-based aid can come in the form of institutional or government grants, which do not need to be repaid, or federal loans. Students must reapply for need-based aid annually. Apply for need-based aid early so that if you’re admitted to Clark, we can provide both your admission decision and financial aid offer at the same time.
FAFSA
US citizens, permanent residents, and eligible non-citizens submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Clark’s FAFSA code is 002139, you’ll need that number.
International Student Certification of Finances and Financial Assistance Application Form
All international students submit the International Student Certification of Finances and Financial Assistance Application Form. This form is available after a student submits their admissions application.
Student Employment
All students can work at Clark, either on campus or in the local community. You can find a job that matches your interests and helps you meet your career goals.
If you qualify for Federal Work-Study, it will be included in your financial aid offer letter.
Additionally, Clark University funds many jobs on campus and in the local Worcester community for students.
Additional information
Financial aid deadlines
Apply for financial aid early: it’s a good idea to apply for financial aid right after you apply for admission. The FAFSA and any other required financial aid materials are due by the same deadlines as the application for admission.
| Round | Application Deadlines |
|---|---|
| Early Decision I | November 1 |
| Early Action | November 1 |
| Early Decision II | January 15 |
| Regular Decision | January 15 |
| Transfer – Fall Semester Start | Rolling, February 1 – May 1 |
| Transfer – Spring Semester Start | Rolling, September 1 – November 1 |
The value of a Clark degree
As president and CEO of the Entertainment Software Association, the trade association of the U.S. video game industry, Stanley Pierre-Louis ’92 touts the cultural impact and career opportunities in top-level game design.
