Cornell University: Rankings, Fees & Courses Details

Cornell University: Located in Ithaca, New York, USA, Cornell University is a private and statutory Ivy League research university that has been a hub of academic excellence since its founding in 1865. With a strong commitment to liberal arts and sciences, Cornell offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across seven colleges and schools.

Cornell University: Rankings and Accolades

here are the notable rankings and accolades for Cornell University:

• Global University Rankings: Cornell University is ranked #12 globally in TOP global university rankings (2024).
• QS World University Rankings: Cornell University is ranked #16 globally (2025) and #43 in the QS World University Rankings (2024).
• Subject Rankings: Cornell University achieves a ranking position #101 in QS World University Rankings By Subject (Business & Management Studies) in April 2024.
• National University Rankings: Cornell University is ranked #12 out of 439 National Universities in the U.S. News College Compass (2024).

Course Rankings:

• QS Rankings: Cornell University’s courses in Mechanical, Aeronautical, and Manufacturing Engineering (2023: 51-100, 2024: NA), Art and Design (2022: 51-100, 2023: 51-100, 2024: NA), and Pharmacy and Pharmacology (2022: 101-150, 2023: 51-100, 2024: NA) receive notable rankings.
• U.S. News and World Report Rankings: Cornell University’s courses in Entrepreneurship MBA, Finance MBA, Graduate Business School, Business Analytics MBA, Supply Chain Management MBA, UG Business, Aerospace Engineering PG, Biomedical Engineering PG, Chemical Engineering PG, Civil Engineering PG, Computer Engineering PG, Electrical Engineering PG, Mechanical Engineering PG, and UG Computer Engineering, Electrical, Electronic & Communications Engg., and Mechanical Engineering receive NA (Not Available) rankings.
• Times Higher Education Rankings: Cornell University’s courses in PG Computer Science, Engineering, Psychology, Law, Life Sciences, and Arts and Humanities receive NA rankings.

Other Accolades:

• Cornell University is recognized for its excellent teaching staff, with students describing them as both knowledgeable and approachable.
• The university is a trailblazer in higher education, regularly ranked among the best in the States and worldwide.

Please note that the rankings and accolades mentioned above are based on the provided search results and may not be exhaustive or up-to-date.

Cornell University: Fees and Expenses

here are the key details:

• Tuition: The total tuition cost for the 2023-24 academic year is $62,456 (as reported in “Costs for Cornell University”).
• Fees: Mandatory/administrative fees include:
  • Undergraduate Student Activity Fee: $384 per year ($192 per semester)
  • Graduate Student Activity Fee: $110 per year ($55 per semester) (as reported in “Tuition Rates and Fees”)
• Other Expenses:
  • Books and Supplies: $1,000 per year
  • Room and Board (on-campus): $16,988 per year
  • Other Expenses Budget: $2,008 per year (as reported in “Costs for Cornell University”)
• Estimated Total Cost of Attendance: $83,196 per year (including all fees and expenses, as reported in “Cornell University – Net Price, Tuition, Cost to Attend, Financial Aid and Student Loans”)
• Graduate Program Tuition: For Tier 2 M.H.A., M.I.L.R., M.L.A., M.P.A., M.P.H., M.R.P., M.F.S., and M.P.S programs, the per-credit tuition is not specified, but the per-semester tuition is $22,384, and the per-year tuition is $44,768 (as reported in “Tuition Rates and Fees”)
• International Student Expenses: For the 2023-24 academic year, international students’ typical expenses include $2,194 per month (undergraduate) + $155 per semester (activity fee) + $682 per semester (books and supplies) + $3,612 (one year of health insurance) (as reported in “Tuition and Living Expenses – Cornell International Services”)
• Comparison to National Average: Cornell University’s tuition and fees are 45% higher than the average for a four-year private institution ($57,570) and 30% higher than the average graduate school cost ($23,130) (as reported in “Cornell University Tuition and Fees”)

Cornell University Courses

Cornell University offers over 80 formal major fields across its colleges and schools. Here are some examples:

• Agricultural Sciences: Animal Science, Agricultural Economics, Plant Breeding and Genetics, Soil Science
• Biological Sciences: Biology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Neuroscience
• Engineering: Aerospace Engineering, Biological Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering
• Human Ecology: Design and Environmental Analysis, Human Development, Nutrition, Textiles and Apparel Technology
• Arts and Sciences: Anthropology, Archaeology, Asian Studies, Astronomy
• Business: Applied Economics and Management, Hotel Administration

Graduate and Professional Programs

Cornell University offers over 100 graduate and professional programs, including:

• Master’s and Ph.D. Programs: Aerospace Engineering, Animal Science, Applied Economics and Management, Architecture, Asian Studies, Astronomy, Atmospheric Science, Biomedical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Computer Science, Engineering Physics, History of Architecture and Urban Development, Information Systems, Materials Science and Engineering, Physics
• Professional Programs: Master of Architecture (M.Arch), Master of Business Administration (MBA), Master of Public Administration (MPA), Master of Science in Hotel Administration (MSHA), Master of Urban Planning (MUP)

Online Courses

eCornell, a subsidiary of Cornell University, offers online courses and certificate programs in various fields, including:

• Business: Leadership, Management, Marketing, Finance
• Technology: Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity
• Professional Development: Communication, Project Management, Human Resources

Continuing Education

Cornell University’s School of Continuing Education and Summer Sessions offers a wide range of courses and programs for:

• College Students: Supplemental courses, study abroad programs, and internships
• High School Students: Pre-college programs, summer camps, and online courses
• Working Professionals: Certificate programs, online courses, and immersion programs
• Local Residents: Community-based programs, online courses, and workshops

These programs are designed to provide flexible and accessible learning opportunities, often with the option to earn college credits.

Cornell University Admission Requirements

Test Scores: Cornell University is test-optional, meaning that submitting SAT or ACT scores is not required for admission. However, if submitted, scores will be considered as part of the application review process.

High School GPA: While not required, a strong high school GPA is considered in the admission process. Recommended GPA requirements to get into Cornell are between 3.8 and 4.0.

High School Class Rank: Not required for admission, but considered if submitted.

College Preparatory Program: Not required for admission, but considered if submitted.

Recommendations: Required to be considered for admission.

Demonstration of Competencies: Not required for admission, but considered if submitted.

Application Deadlines:

• Early Decision (ED): November 1 (submit application), November 15 (submit supporting material), and mid-December (admissions decisions released).
• Regular Decision (RD): January 2 (submit application and supporting material), and early April (admissions decisions released).

Transfer Admissions: Cornell’s transfer decision acceptance rate is 13.9%. The recommended GPA requirements for transfer students are between 3.8 and 4.0.

Admission Statistics:

• Total applicants: 69,195
• Admitted students: 5,168
• Acceptance rate: 7%
• Yield rate: 68%

Safety Schools: Easier to get into, with average SAT scores ranging from 1375 to 1418 and average ACT scores ranging from 30 to 33.

Reach Schools: Harder to get into, with average SAT scores ranging from 1475 to 1527 and average ACT scores ranging from 33 to 35.

Same Level Schools: Equally hard to get into, with average SAT scores ranging from 1435 to 1493 and average ACT scores ranging from 33 to 34.

Competitive Profile: To have the best chance of getting into Cornell University, students should have a strong academic record, including a high GPA, challenging coursework, and demonstrated excellence in their intended major. Extracurricular activities, leadership, and community service are also important factors in the admission process.

Cornell University Application Process

The Cornell University application process for first-year applicants involves several key steps and deadlines. Here’s a summary:

Timeline:

• August: The Common Application opens for submission.
• October 1: The CSS Profile opens for submission.
• December: The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) opens, and the last applicable SAT and ACT testing dates occur.
• January 2: The Common Application and Cornell Writing Supplement are due, along with the $80 application fee or fee waiver portfolio design supplement.
• February 15: Financial aid application materials are due for U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens.
• Late March: Admission decisions and financial aid awards are announced.
• May 1: Reply to offer of admission.

Application Status:

• Once submitted, applicants can track their application materials, upload supplemental materials, and update contact information through the secure Application Status Page.
• Cornell will email applicants about establishing an online application status account, confirming receipt of their application.
• Applicants can reset their password or update their email address through the Application Status Page.

What Cornell Looks For:

• Start early: Allow sufficient time to complete both the general Common Application and the Cornell University Writing Supplement.
• Give attention to both parts of the application to showcase academic achievements, personal qualities, and fit with Cornell’s community.

Application Checklist:

• Submit the online Common Application.
• Pay the $80 nonrefundable application fee or submit a fee waiver.
• Meet specific requirements for each college or school, which may include additional recommendations or materials.
• Note that Cornell practices need-blind admissions and meets the full demonstrated financial need of admitted students.

Additional Notes:

• Students enrolled in concurrent high school and college courses are considered first-year candidates.
• Students who have earned 12 credits or more should apply as transfer students.
• International applicants should follow separate application instructions.
• Early decision applicants may be eligible for release from their commitment if the financial aid award does not make a Cornell education affordable.

By understanding these key steps and deadlines, applicants can navigate the Cornell University application process effectively and increase their chances of admission.

Cornell University Campus Life and International Student Support

Cornell University Student and Campus Life serves all students – undergraduate, graduate, and professional – and strives to promote an educational environment where you can thrive in pursuit of your academic and personal goals. Stay up to date on the latest campus news and announcements.

International Student Support

International students make up approximately 24% of the entire student population on campus and over half of the graduate student population. As an international student, you bring a unique global perspective to Cornell and to your future employer if you wish to work in the U.S. following graduation.

• Review the International Module in the Canvas Career Development Toolkit to get a quick start on important elements for international students seeking a career in the U.S.
• Make an appointment with the International Career Advisor in Cornell Career Services for personalized guidance.
• Visit the FAQ for International Students to stay informed on employment and tax policies, visas, helpful resources, and more.

Additional Support and Resources

The Office of Student Support and Advocacy Services assists students in navigating difficult life events and crisis situations that impact their ability to be successful. They utilize a student-centered and individualized approach to support and empower students.

• Additional campus-wide mental health resources are available, including the Access Fund for students with low-income status and undocumented/DACA students who are low-income.
• First-Generation & Low-Income (FGLI) Student Support empowers students to navigate and access essential resources for short-term relief and long-term planning to address their basic needs.
• Cornell University offers a variety of resources for on- and off-campus housing needs, including emergency housing solutions through Cornell University Dispatch (607-255-1111).