Cornell University

School Overview

Cornell University is located in Ithaca, NY, 14853, set within a rural environment that shapes the daily student experience. The university is ranked #12 among National Universities by U.S. News & World Report. It offers programs at the bachelor’s degree level, serving students with a range of academic interests and career aspirations.

Admission to Cornell University is exceptionally competitive. Only 8% of applicants are offered a place, putting it among the most selective schools in the nation. Successful applicants typically present SAT scores of 1500-1570 and ACT scores of 33-35. Applications are due by Jan. 2, so students should plan their materials well in advance.

With 16,128 undergraduates, Cornell University is large enough to offer a wide range of academic programs yet maintains a sense of campus community that helps students find their place. The student-to-faculty ratio is 9:01, meaning professors are accessible for office hours, research mentorship, and one-on-one guidance. Approximately 54% of classes have fewer than 20 students, fostering the kind of seminar-style discussion and hands-on collaboration that deepens real understanding. The institution achieves a four-year graduation rate of 87%, a strong indicator that students receive the support they need to finish on time and move into their careers or further study.

The most popular fields of study at Cornell University include Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services (18% of students, median early-career salary: $140,860), Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services (14% of students, median early-career salary: $98,785), and Engineering (13% of students, median early-career salary: $115,100). These enrollment patterns reflect the institution's strengths and the career interests of its student body, giving prospective students a clear sense of the academic culture and post-graduation opportunities available here.

The published tuition and fees are $72,270 per year. Room and board adds approximately $20,574. However, the average net price after financial aid is $29,651, which is the amount most aided students actually pay — often considerably less than the sticker price. Need-based aid averages $62,720 per recipient, demonstrating the institution's commitment to making education financially accessible. For families evaluating the return on a college investment, these figures — combined with Cornell University's academic reputation and graduate outcomes — provide a concrete basis for comparison.

Choosing a college is one of the most significant decisions a student and family will make. Cornell University combines nationally recognized academic quality, a favorable student-to-faculty ratio, a diverse range of popular programs to create an environment where students can grow intellectually, build professional skills, and form lasting connections. We encourage prospective students to explore the detailed data on this page to determine whether Cornell University is the right fit for their academic and personal goals.