About

About Clark Atlanta University

hbcudoctoral research universityatlanta university centerarts and business focusprivate institution

Clark Atlanta University is a private research university in Atlanta, GA, known for its hbcu, doctoral research university, and atlanta university center. With an acceptance rate of 56%, Clark Atlanta University is moderately selective, typically enrolling around 1,157 students each year. Clark Atlanta University is test optional; students who submit scores are typically admitted with SATs between 880–1120, though many competitive applicants choose not to submit. Clark Atlanta University offers merit scholarships regardless of financial need, with awards averaging $4,464 per year; the sticker price of $39,446 may look very different from what your family actually pays.

Admissions

Clark Atlanta University acceptance rate and admitted student profile

moderately selective

56%
Overall Accept Rate
1000
Median Admitted SAT
SATSubmitted score range: 880 – 1120 (test optional)

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Application Strategy

Strategy tips for applying to Clark Atlanta University

The first 2 tips apply to all applicants. Your personalized strategy requires your profile — build your free list to unlock it.

Essay Strategy
Clark Atlanta University is an HBCU with a strong mission around social justice, community service, and Black excellence, so your personal statement should directly connect your goals to why an HBCU environment specifically will help you grow. Admissions readers want to see that you understand and are drawn to CAU's identity, not just that you want to attend college in Atlanta.
Application Strategy
Research CAU's specific academic programs, like the School of Business, the communications department, or STEM offerings through the Atlanta University Center Consortium, and name them explicitly in your application materials. Showing that you know exactly which program you are entering and why it fits your career plan signals serious interest to the admissions committee.

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Financial Aid & Cost

What Clark Atlanta University actually costs your family

Average net prices by income bracket from College Scorecard data.

Family IncomeSticker PriceEst. Net Cost / yr
0-30k~$39k/yr$37.4k
30k-48k~$39k/yr$39.3k
48k-75k~$39k/yr$39.0k
75k-110k~$39k/yr$39.5k
110k+~$39k/yr$38.7k

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Personalize this page

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Outcomes & Campus

Student outcomes and campus profile

48%
6-Year Graduation Rate
$28k
Median Earnings (6 yrs)
19:1
Student-Faculty Ratio
3,187
Undergrad Enrollment
Clark Atlanta University Acceptance Rate & Admissions | SpearMatch