Cornell University founded in 1865 by Ezra Cornell and Andrew Dickson White Ithaca, New York is a highly respected institution known for high-quality education. It was the first university in the United States to offer education to people of all backgrounds and genders. It is well recognized as one of the best universities in the US when it comes to diversity and accessibility.
Cornell has made significant contributions to many fields, including agriculture, engineering, and veterinary medicine. Its research in science, arts, and humanities has also been groundbreaking. The university has many reputable alumni, who include Nobel Prize winners, Pulitzer Prize winners, and influential leaders.
Notable alumni include Ruth Bader Ginsburg, an influential Supreme Court Justice known for her advocacy for gender equality; Bill Nye, “The Science Guy,” renowned for his work in science communication; Pearl S. Buck, a Nobel Prize-winning author; E. B. White who is celebrated for his contributions to children’s literature; and Sandra Fluke, an advocate for women’s rights and social justice.
Cornell University’s campus is large and impressive and has top-notch facilities and instructors. This shows that the university is committed to providing excellent education that inspires students. Below, you will learn everything there is to learn about Cornell University and why you should include it in your list of the best universities to attend in the United States.
Cornell University Rankings
Cornell University’s acceptance rate depends on the program and is highly competitive. For undergraduate programs, the overall acceptance rate is around 10-12%. However, this rate may change significantly depending on the specific college you are applying for. Some colleges admit a smaller percentage of applicants than others.
For graduate programs, acceptance rates differ significantly based on the field of study and the competitiveness of the program. Graduate programs at Cornell have lower acceptance rates than undergraduate programs. It often ranges from 5% to 20%, again this depends on the specific program.
Tuition Fees At Cornell University
The tuition fees you pay at Cornell University depend on the specific program, college, and your student residency status. For the 2023-2024 academic year, the undergraduate tuition for New York state residents is $59,316 and this includes tuition, fees, room, and board.
Out-of-state resident’s and international student’s tuition and fees are $59,316 per year, plus additional expenses for room, board, and miscellaneous fees.
Graduate students’ tuition costs differ based on the program and college. Graduate students also pay their tuition fees based on their residency status; this means that out-of-state and in-state students pay significantly different fees. The cost of graduate education at Cornell can range from $20,000 to $40,000 per year for tuition alone, with additional expenses for fees, books, and living expenses.
Cornell University Financial Aid
Cornell University understands that not everyone can afford the entire tuition fees and other expenses, so it helps students pay for their education in different ways:
- Scholarships: If you have done well in school and shown leadership skills or other achievements, Cornell might give you a scholarship.
- Grants: If you need financial help to pay for college, Cornell might give you a grant based on your family’s income. You show your financial need through forms like the FAFSA or CSS Profile.
- Loans: If you still need money after getting scholarships and grants, you can get loans from the government or private lenders. Government loans usually have lower interest rates and better terms.
- Work-Study Programs: Cornell offers part-time jobs to students who qualify for the Federal Work-Study Program. This lets you earn money while you’re in school to help pay for your expenses.
These options are meant to help students from different backgrounds afford a Cornell education, so money isn’t a barrier to getting a degree.
Cornell University’s Courses
Cornell University offers programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels across different disciplines. Below is a list of some of the courses available at Cornell University:-
- Animal anatomy
- Anthropology
- Architecture design
- Astronomy
- Biology
- Business Strategy
- Chemical engineering
- Chemistry
- Civil engineering
- Computer science
- Ecology
- Economics
- Electrical engineering
- Entrepreneurship
- Environmental science
- Finance
- Genetics
- Geology
- Historic preservation
- History
- Horticulture
- Landscape architecture
- Literature
- Marketing
- Mechanical engineering
- Microbiology
- Music
- Natural resources
- Neuroscience
- Operations management
- Philosophy
- Physics
- Political science
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Sustainable agriculture
- Urban planning
- Veterinary Ethics
- Animal physiology
- Pathology
- Pharmacology
These are just a few examples of the courses offered at Cornell University. The university offers many courses to allow students access to courses that interest them.
Cornell University’s Admission Criteria
Cornell University evaluates applicants based on a holistic admissions process. They do not consider only good grades and test scores, see the admission criteria below:-
- Academic Performance: Cornell looks at your high school GPA, the rigor of your coursework, and your performance on standardized tests like the SAT or ACT. They want to see that you have challenged yourself academically and performed well in your classes.
- Extracurricular Activities: Cornell values involvement in extracurricular activities such as clubs, sports, community service, and leadership roles. They want to see that you are engaged outside of the classroom and have developed leadership skills and interests.
- Essays and Personal Statements: Your application essays and personal statements allow you the opportunity to showcase your personality, passions, and values. Cornell wants to understand who you are beyond your grades and test scores, so it is important to take the time to craft thoughtful and compelling essays.
- Letters of Recommendation: Applicants are required to submit letters of recommendation from teachers, counselors, or other mentors to provide insight into their character, work ethic, and potential for success at Cornell.
- Cornell University does not track demonstrated interest as heavily as some other schools, showing genuine interest in the university through campus visits, interviews, and attending information sessions can still make a positive impression on admissions officers.
- Cornell seeks to build a diverse and inclusive community, so they consider factors such as race, ethnicity, socioeconomic background, geographic location, and other aspects of identity in their admissions decisions.
Cornell University looks for well-rounded applicants who have demonstrated academic excellence, leadership potential, and a genuine interest in contributing to the university community. It is important to present yourself authentically in your application and highlight your unique strengths and experiences.