The most academically diverse Ivy, Cornell spans everything from engineering and agriculture to hotel administration. Its founding mission was 'any person, any study.'
What is the acceptance rate at Cornell University?
Cornell University admits approximately 7% of applicants, making it "Highly Selective" in our directory.
How much does Cornell University cost per year?
Tuition is approximately 63,200 USD per year before aid. See the Tuition tab for a full cost-of-attendance breakdown.
Does Cornell University offer scholarships or financial aid?
Yes — Cornell University offers Cornell Grant, Need-based Aid, and about 50% of students receive some form of financial aid.
When is the application deadline for Cornell University?
The application deadline is Jan 02. We recommend submitting all materials at least two weeks ahead of that date.
What can I study at Cornell University?
Cornell University offers 4 broad fields of study: Engineering, Business, Natural Sciences, Social Sciences.
How big are classes at Cornell University?
The average class size is 20 students, with a student-to-faculty ratio of 9:1, across a large campus of about 25,000 students.
Cornell University
🇺🇸 Ithaca, NY, United States · USA
#20
Global Ranking
Detailed admissions profile compiled by UniPath on June 24, 2026. Figures are directory estimates intended for planning purposes — always confirm exact requirements and costs with the official admissions office at https://www.cornell.edu.
At a Glance
Established
1865
Student Population
25,000
Faculty Ratio
9:1
Average Class Size
20
Acceptance Rate
7%
Annual Tuition
$63,200
Financial Aid Recipients
50%
Application Deadline
Jan 02
Website
https://www.cornell.edu
About Cornell University
The most academically diverse Ivy, Cornell spans everything from engineering and agriculture to hotel administration. Its founding mission was 'any person, any study.'
Highly competitive admissions mean a tightly selected, high-achieving peer group.
Generous aid — 50% of students receive financial support.
Small average class size (20 students) for close faculty access.
A large campus with broad program variety and a vibrant student scene.
An active, well-funded research culture.
Admissions — Highly Selective
With only 7% of applicants admitted, every part of the application needs to be deliberate — academics, essays, and activities all carry weight.
This school is more selective than approximately 75% of schools in our directory, ranks better than 91% of them, and is more affordable than 4% (out of 172 schools compared).
Typical requirements:
Completed online application
Official academic transcripts
Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS) for non-native speakers
3 letters of recommendation from teachers or mentors
Personal statement plus 2+ supplemental essays
Standardized test scores (optional at many schools, but top-decile scores strengthen the file)
Demonstrated depth in 1-2 extracurriculars rather than breadth across many
Test-optional, but admitted students who submit scores typically land in the 90th percentile or above.
Cost of Attendance (Estimated, per year)
Tuition
$63,200
Housing & Living
$22,120
Books & Supplies
$2,528
Personal Expenses
$5,056
Total Cost of Attendance
$92,904
Est. Average Grant / Aid
- $18,960
Est. Net Price
$44,240
4-Year Total (before aid)
$371,616
Estimates for international students; actual aid varies by applicant profile.
Scholarships
Cornell Grant
Need-based Aid
Majors & Career Outcomes
Engineering — $72,000 avg. starting salary
Common careers: Design Engineer, Project Manager, R&D Specialist, Systems Engineer
Business — $65,000 avg. starting salary
Common careers: Financial Analyst, Marketing Manager, Management Consultant, Entrepreneur
Natural Sciences — $58,000 avg. starting salary
Common careers: Research Scientist, Lab Manager, Biotech Specialist, Environmental Consultant
Social Sciences — $54,000 avg. starting salary
Common careers: Policy Analyst, Economist, Counselor, HR Specialist
Campus Life
A scenic hilltop campus above Ithaca's gorges, with a huge range of clubs and Greek life.
Suggested Application Timeline
12+ weeks before: Request transcripts and letters of recommendation; start drafting your personal statement.
8 weeks before: Finalize essays, gather standardized test scores, and complete the online application form.
4 weeks before: Submit early — leave buffer time for technical issues or late-arriving documents.
Jan 02 — deadline: Hard deadline. All materials must be received by the admissions office.
After submitting: Track your applicant portal and respond promptly to any requests for more information.
Similar Universities to Consider
School
Rank
Tuition
Acceptance
Columbia University
#23
$65,524
3.9%
Princeton University
#17
$57,410
4%
Yale University
#16
$64,700
4.6%
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the acceptance rate at Cornell University?
Cornell University admits approximately 7% of applicants, making it "Highly Selective" in our directory.
How much does Cornell University cost per year?
Tuition is approximately 63,200 USD per year before aid. See the Tuition tab for a full cost-of-attendance breakdown.
Does Cornell University offer scholarships or financial aid?
Yes — Cornell University offers Cornell Grant, Need-based Aid, and about 50% of students receive some form of financial aid.
When is the application deadline for Cornell University?
The application deadline is Jan 02. We recommend submitting all materials at least two weeks ahead of that date.
What can I study at Cornell University?
Cornell University offers 4 broad fields of study: Engineering, Business, Natural Sciences, Social Sciences.
How big are classes at Cornell University?
The average class size is 20 students, with a student-to-faculty ratio of 9:1, across a large campus of about 25,000 students.