Founded in 1865, Cornell University. is a Private college. Located in New York, which is a city setting in New York, the campus itself is Urban. The campus is home to 14,566 full time undergraduate students, and 7,753 full time graduate students.
The Cornell University Academic calendar runs on a Semester basis. In the school year the student to faculty ratio was 9:1. There are 1804 full time instructional teachers. Degrees awarded at Cornell University include: Bachelor's Degree, Masters Degree, Post-master's certificate, Doctor's degree.
Quick Facts
Acceptance Rate
14%
Application Deadline
1-Nov
Application Fee
80
SAT Range
1330-1530
ACT Range
31-34
Admissions at are considered Most Selective, with ,168% of all applicants being admitted.
In the school year, of the students who applied to the school, only 7 of those who were admitted eventually ended up enrolling.
100% of incoming freshmen are in the top half of their high school class. 98% were in the top quarter, and 91% were in the top tenth. You can apply online.
STUDENT LIFE Reviews
We asked, and students answered these important questions about student life at Cornell University.
4%
“We”re apathetic”
30%
“We know about current events and vote”
56%
“We participate and encourage others to get involved”
11%
“There”s nothing we won”t protest”
3%
“We save it for the classroom”
21%
“Sometimes, but not often”
52%
“There”s usually intelligent conversation to be found”
24%
“All the time, including weekends”
0%
“I”m always terrified”
7%
“I only go out in groups”
35%
“I usually let someone know where I”m going”
58%
“I feel extremely safe”
41%
“We don”t play sports”
0%
“We play recreationally”
47%
“We bought the gear”
12%
“We live for the big game”
3%
“It”s not really our thing”
32%
“Occasinally we gallery crawl”
56%
“There are a variety of opportunities”
9%
“We”re a very artistic group”
6%
“Haven”t met them”
15%
“Available in class”
56%
“They keep regular office hours”
23%
“They”re always available”
0%
“No greek life, but other groups to join”
10%
“There is some involvement, but not a lot”
66%
“Plenty of people join a sorority or fraternity”
24%
“It”s everything. If you”re not greek, you”re a geek”
1%
“We”re not into drinking at all”
5%
“Maybe a little, but it”s not a big thing”
63%
“We only party on weekends”
31%
“There”s some drinking happening every night”
3%
“Never, we”re here to learn”
51%
“There might be people who do”
42%
“People are known to partake on weekends”
4%
“There”s a huge drug scene”
4%
“We”re apathetic”
30%
“We know about current events and vote”
56%
“We participate and encourage others to get involved”
11%
“There”s nothing we won”t protest”
3%
“We save it for the classroom”
21%
“Sometimes, but not often”
52%
“There”s usually intelligent conversation to be found”
24%
“All the time, including weekends”
0%
“I”m always terrified”
7%
“I only go out in groups”
35%
“I usually let someone know where I”m going”
58%
“I feel extremely safe”
41%
“We don”t play sports”
0%
“We play recreationally”
47%
“We bought the gear”
12%
“We live for the big game”
3%
“It”s not really our thing”
32%
“Occasinally we gallery crawl”
56%
“There are a variety of opportunities”
9%
“We”re a very artistic group”
6%
“Haven”t met them”
15%
“Available in class”
56%
“They keep regular office hours”
23%
“They”re always available”
0%
“No greek life, but other groups to join”
10%
“There is some involvement, but not a lot”
66%
“Plenty of people join a sorority or fraternity”
24%
“It”s everything. If you”re not greek, you”re a geek”
289 Students rated on-campus housing 3.6 stars. 16 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate off-campus housing?
236 Students rated off-campus housing 3.3 stars. 0 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate campus food?
305 Students rated campus food 4.4 stars. 55 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate campus facilities?
304 Students rated campus facilities 4.3 stars. 44 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate class size?
304 Students rated class size 3.7 stars. 23 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate school activities?
301 Students rated school activities 4.4 stars. 56 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate local services?
301 Students rated local services 3.6 stars. 22 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate academics?
304 Students rated academics 4.1 stars. 40 % gave the school a 5.0.
Cornell University REVIEWS
What's your overall opinion of Cornell University?
71 Students rated Cornell University
Hans
Prospective04/24/2025
Cornell University stands out as a dream destination for me due to its unique blend of academic excellence, vibrant culture, and stunning campus life. The university’s motto, “any person… any study,” resonates deeply, promising an environment where I can explore my passion for [insert your major or interest, e.g., environmental science] while dabbling in diverse fields like anthropology or music through its 80+ majors and 4,000+ courses. The emphasis on undergraduate research, with opportunities to work alongside Nobel laureates and cutting-edge researchers, is a major draw—Cornell ranks 17th among U.S. universities for research, offering funding and resources to dive into real-world problems.
The culture at Cornell is inclusive and dynamic, with 59% of undergraduates identifying as students of color, fostering a global perspective that excites me. With over 1,000 student organizations, from beekeeping to the Cornell Daily Sun, I can already picture myself finding a niche while meeting people from all walks of life. Campus life in Ithaca, with its gorges, waterfalls, and Cayuga Lake views, feels like a perfect balance of serene study spots and adventure—think hiking or kayaking through Cornell Outdoor Education programs. Events like Dragon Day and Slope Day promise unforgettable traditions that knit the community together.
What truly sets Cornell apart is its “work hard, play hard” mentality. The rigorous academics push me to grow, but the vibrant social scene, from hockey games at Lynah Rink to free food events, ensures balance. Cornell’s commitment to sustainability, aiming for carbon neutrality by 2035, also aligns with my values, making it a place where I can learn and contribute to a better future.
Overall Rating of Cornell University
I rate Cornell University a 4.8 out of 5. The academic opportunities, diverse community, and breathtaking campus are nearly perfect. The only slight drawback is the high cost (around $90,000 annually), though financial aid and scholarships make it accessible. Cornell’s blend of intellectual freedom, global engagement, and spirited traditions makes it an ideal place to thrive
David
Prospective04/23/2025
At nine, I learned about the guanabana fruit and its rumored cancer-healing properties during a trip to visit family in Mexico. My great-grandmother’s indigenous ecological knowledge fascinated me, and with my mom battling cancer, the guanabana tree became my symbol of hope. When I returned to Phoenix, I planted a tree, naively believing it could grow into a cure. The tree never took root, but that experience did—it was the first time I felt the deep bond between our care for the Earth and its nurturing of us in return.
As I grew older, my passion for environmental care deepened, especially as I saw firsthand the challenges in my family’s home state, Sinaloa. Trash burning, monoculture farming, pesticide use, and inefficient transportation degrade the land, pollute water, and impact people’s health—including my mom’s. I realized that sustainable food production requires conscious practices across the entire supply chain. Every decision has the power to harm or heal.
Cornell’s Environment and Sustainability major, with a concentration in Sustainable Business, offers the ideal platform to address these challenges. I’m excited to learn how economic principles can shape policies that push businesses toward sustainability, rather than perpetuate harmful practices like those in Sinaloa. Courses like Economics of Food and Malnutrition and Toward a Sustainable Global Food System will help me understand the dynamics of food security and environmental impact. Programs like the Cornell Institute for Digital Agriculture will let me apply this knowledge practically, and clubs like Mariachi Regional will help me engage with my cultural identity while simultaneously keeping my guitar skills fresh.
I’ve already started this work with Nilo IQ, an agri-commerce chatbot I co-developed to centralize market data, enabling farmers to make sustainable crop choices and improve yields. This project is just the beginning of how I plan to use AI and data to transform agriculture, tackling issues like food waste, nutrient runoff, and price fluctuations. My ultimate vision is to create an AI-driven platform that contributes to a society, where technology and nature aren’t in conflict. but rather existing symbiotically—a kind of Ecological Utopia.
My connection between caring for the Earth and it caring for us has remained strong since that childhood guanabana experiment. On weekends, I work on a hydroponics rig and lead demonstrations for kids at my local farmers market, hoping to spark in them the same passion I feel. At Cornell, I’m eager to learn from Neil Mattson, whose course on hydroponic systems and research on selenium’s potential to mitigate heat damage in plants are essential in optimizing my own agricultural ventures and reducing environmental impact back home in Arizona.
Just as I once tumbled down Cornell’s slope and ended up at Cornell Health during a 2014 visit (true story), I’m ready to dive into a deeper pursuit of environmental stewardship, where businesses are accountable, farmers are empowered, and sustainability is the norm. This is my new guanabana tree. my vision. Cornell’s unique opportunities will be key to turning this vision into reality.
Taylor
Prospective04/23/2025
I am intrigued by the rigorous academics that Cornell University upholds while still maintaining school spirit and a strong culture. I believe that the diverse student body allows individuals to excel because they are surrounded by intelligent people, fostering growth. Additionally, many schools with equivalent academics lack strong athletic events and social scenes, but Cornell seems to find a balance between the two. I personally, am attracted to the agriculture program that Cornell has. As someone who wants to major in Agriculture, Cornell is the ideal place to study, hence why I applied early decision to their CALS program.
sebastian
Prospective04/22/2025
A $3,000 scholarship would help me and my family a lot during my career. This is because I’m not taking money away from my parents that worked hard for it. I also wouldn’t have to ask them and that’s something I would be proud of because I feel bas taking away their money especially since they don’t earn much. A $3,000 scholarship would also be helpful to me because with that money I’m able to buy my essentials during the time I’m away. With this money I would be able to buy things like clothes if needed but more importantly food and materials ill be using throughout the year. Lastly this scholarship would also give me a kind of motivation. If I were to receive this scholarship I would have a even better mindset by telling myself I have to finish my career with a degree and not let the money go to waste but instead finish.
Nia
04/19/2025
I love Cornell! Beautiful campus and stimulating academics. I am an incoming freshman in the class of 2029 and I’m very excited to participate in Cornell’s Outdoor Extension program and student sustainability groups. Cornell’s opportunities are unmatched.
Brodyn
Prospective04/17/2025
What makes me want to attend Cornell University is there veterinary program. After doing research I have seen and heard about the program and that Cornell University is a global leader is the aspect and program. There are also multiple aspects of the the school that stands out to me first is the way and where its built and how it is on the outskirts of New York. Due to me living in a the city of El Paso which is mainly dirt and peer desert I have always wanted to move out and plan to move out to a bigger city. I also know that in order to get into Cornell I would have to be top 10% of my class throughout college. I would also appreciate the academic opportunities to get ahead and a better education to been a veterinarian. If I would be so blessed to go to Cornell University I would be the first person in my family to go to a top tier ivy league college especially Cornell.
Victoria
Prospective04/15/2025
I always wanted to live in New York, it’s been my dream. The campus feels so cozy and the libraries are just so beautiful. I can see myself going there either in my undergrad or grad year. I know it’s a challenge but in my experience I seem to like challenges so I can prove my worth to other and myself.
JonathanL
Prospective04/13/2025
Cornell University draws me in because of its unmatched blend of rigorous academics, groundbreaking research opportunities, and collaborative, interdisciplinary culture. The College of Arts & Sciences’ strong emphasis on life sciences and its connection with Weill Cornell Medicine would allow me to engage deeply with biotechnology from both a scientific and clinical lens. I’m especially interested in the Cornell Undergraduate Research Board (CURB) and programs like the Cornell Research Scholars, which would support my aspirations in biomedical research.
Isabella
Prospective04/11/2025
In my opinion Cornell is one of the best university's in the country and it has one of the best medical major programs. The student life seems great due to the sense of community that is built with everybody there especially with others studying the same major as you. Cornell really stood out to me for their fantastic medical program but every time I hear something about it its always something very positive.
Sofia
Prospective04/09/2025
What draws me to Cornell University is its unique ability to combine rigorous academics with a culture rooted in service, collaboration, and community. As someone passionate about becoming a doctor and serving underrepresented populations, Cornell’s commitment to public engagement and global health deeply resonates with me. The Biology & Society major within the College of Arts and Sciences is especially exciting—it offers the perfect balance of science, ethics, and policy, and would allow me to explore how systemic inequities intersect with healthcare access.
Cornell’s campus life also stands out. From vibrant cultural organizations to opportunities for undergraduate research at places like the Cornell Institute for Public Affairs, I see a community where my academic curiosity and commitment to service can thrive. I’d love to engage in service-learning projects, continue volunteering with youth, and connect with bilingual or multicultural organizations on campus.
Cornell’s “any person, any study” philosophy reflects the same mindset I’ve carried throughout high school—seeking knowledge while uplifting others. It’s a place where I can grow not only as a future medical professional, but as a leader with heart and purpose.
Nicole
Prospective04/07/2025
I don't know too much about Cornell, besides that it is highly prestigious and is located in Ithaca, New York. The campus seems beautiful, the professor ratings are high, and the community is diverse and motivated! Overall, Cornell seems like a wonderful university!
Sharon
07/26/2024
Cornell University is an incredible place that offers a perfect blend of top-notch academics, beautiful scenery, and a vibrant campus life. Nestled in Ithaca, New York, the campus is absolutely stunning, with breathtaking views of the Finger Lakes and plenty of green spaces to enjoy.
What really sets Cornell apart is its academic reputation. The faculty are some of the best in the world, and they’re genuinely passionate about their fields. The range of programs and courses available is amazing, so whether you’re into engineering, the arts, or anything in between, you’ll find something that excites you. The resources and facilities are top-tier, giving you everything you need to dive deep into your studies.
But it’s not all about academics. The campus community is incredibly diverse, with students from all over the globe bringing different perspectives and experiences. This diversity makes for a really rich and inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome. There are tons of clubs, cultural organizations, and activities, so it’s easy to find your people and get involved in things you care about.
Cornell also stands out for its commitment to sustainability and community service. There are lots of eco-friendly initiatives and opportunities to give back, which adds a sense of purpose to the college experience.
Makenna
04/29/2024
I good school academically but know that they expect a lot of you and it is very stressful. There is plenty of nature and clubs to enjoy when you do take breaks from studies though. The school provides lots of resources for you if you seek them out and it is good for networking too. I enjoyed my Animal Science community and professors, but some professors in other depts care more about their research than their students.
Anmol
04/07/2024
Well Cornell is an amazing college it is considered a IVY league school and alot of smart people there, professors are always there to help you out and have office hours every days. While most students have 4.0 or higher there are many people with lower GPA's and Cornell can do anything to help you bring up the GPA
The fall 2020 acceptance rate for Cornell University is 14%. That means, out of _____ applications received in 2020, _____ students were offered admission.
What should every freshman at your school know before they start?
Kaylie, you are a hard-working, kind-hearted young lady who is happiest doing a variety of activities. I know you swore that you will focus solely on academics your first semester of college. For most people that is what they need but Kaylie you don't need that. Don?t force yourself to be someone you aren?t by taking away what really matters to you-building relationships and helping people. You'll still struggle with classes and at times feel like you?re failing; you will have to work harder than you ever have in your life too, and at the end of that first semester you?re going to be disappointed in your grades and your GPA because you hold yourself to a very high standard. Just know this: that number, your GPA, can never truly reflect how hard you had to work to stay in the college of your dreams. Do not let that number define you or all that you have accomplished. As long as you stay true to whom you are and your values while working hard and enjoying your college experience you have truly succeeded?and that?s the greatest achievement of all.
I'm a science major, so most of the classes I took as a freshman had more than 100 students enrolled. As a pre-med, the environment is definitely competitive. Most professors are willing to help though, and they appreciate if you visit them during office hours. Think of office hours as a win-win situation--you understand the material a whole lot better and the professor does not waste time just sitting at his desk in his office. To de-stress, pre-meds can take a wide array of electives such as Magical Mushrooms & Mischevious Molds and Introduction to Wines.
Cornell is an excellent school. I can proudly say that Cornell has one of the most beautiful campuses in the nation. In fact, I enjoy exploring the campus and taking pictures before the freezing winter sets in. And even when winter comes, there are times when I brave the cold and walk around the campus to capture the winter scenery around our campus.
Cornell is a fairly large private university, and because I attended a high school that only had about 160 students per grade, it is a huge plus. It is not as large as some of the public schools, but it definitely is big enough for every student to find his or her niche and friends with similar interests. And because we have seven undergraduate schools, Cornell students have the opportunity to network and meet people outside of their fields of study. As an economics and government double-major student, I can say I have friends who are engineers, architects, art students, and "hotelies." And because Cornell has a big campus, the school never feels like it's crowded and running out of space.
Many students complain that Ithaca is a fairly isolated town, but I think it also has its benefits. Yes, we can't enjoy the internship opportunities and other perks that students in large cities benefit from, but being a bit isolated allows us to really develop strong friendships and a tightly-knit community. I've heard from many of my friends in schools like NYU complain about the lack of opportunity to form lasting friendships because the city lures many of the students away from each other.
Well, Ithaca is very well known to be cold, and I won't deny it. Surprisingly, this year, the winter hasn't been bad at all. Still, even in the freezing cold, students have fun sliding down "the slope" with "borrowed" trays from dining halls, creating sculptures out of ice and snow (sometimes obscene ones that need to be dismantled by the campus police), etc. For these reasons, I hate and love Ithacan winter.
Although some students take pride in being a Cornell student while some don't necessarily have much school pride, I can say one thing for sure. Cornell, despite being often derided as being "the easiest Ivy to get into," does have a good reputation. While flying back and forth from my home in California, I have had the chance to converse with many fellow travelers. Naturally, many asked me at which school I study (I don't tell people that I'm a Cornell student unless asked upon because many Ivy-league students are stereotyped to be arrogant), and when I told them I go to Cornell, most were impressed. I say most because there were some who did not know anything about Cornell. And I can also say that Cornell is fairly well-known outside of the U.S. as well because when I backpacked across Italy and France last summer, many Europeans congratulated me for having the chance to study at one of the best institutions in the world.
Overall, Cornell is an excellent school, and if you don't mind studying at a fairly large university in a rural environment, you would definitely love coming to Cornell.
Describe how your school looks to someone who's never seen it.
A great balance of challenging work and having some of the best fun in your life. Although the courses are hard, the knowledge sticks in your head and you'll feel good about it. Outside of academics, the greek life here is huge and you'll never run out of things to do.
What do you consider the worst thing about your school? Why?
Cornell University is too populated. Just this year, the incoming freshman student body exceeded the regular number admitted by a couple hundred. On-campus housing is already lacking as well as academic resources, such as laboratory space and shared reading materials. Renovations are sorely needed in certain on-campus residential buildings.
It is a place where you can interact with people in the frontiers of whatever field you might be interested in. There are lots of opportunities in which you can discover your career interests through school-provided programs. There is a diverse, variety communities, so you are certain to find a community that you can find yourself most comfortable with. Intellectual as well as social growth is stimulated through the interaction with similar-minded students and professorss.
What kind of person should not attend this school?
The school is located in a rather rural area, so if you seek an urban life, it will probably not be your best choice. Also, the weather is bearable, but it does really get cold in winter, and snows a lot. It is easy to neglect the environment, but you should certainly take into considerations of these factors. Also, the workload of average Cornell students is probably a lot higher than the average of other college students.
Students who are prepared for VERY challenging workloads should consider Cornell if there are particular programs, departments, or faculty they are interested in working with. These students should be aware that the campus is diverse, but that diversity must be sought out. Cornell is a challenge: the school work is challenging, finding a social niche is challenging. Students who are prepared to accept this facet of Cornell and work hard should consider applying: it's worth it if you're ready for it.
What's the one thing you wish someone had told you about freshman year?
Before coming to Cornell, I wish somebody had explained to me the definite possibility that I would no longer be in the top of my class and that school would be very challenging. I wish that somebody had prepared me for the adjustment I would have to make to accepting B's as good grades. I am now a second semester sophomore, but it can be difficult at times to accept that a B is a good grade when in highschool, nothing less than an A was considered "my best" or good.
What's the most frustrating thing about your school?
The freshman dorms are a great distance from the actual classes. So, if you plan on taking the bus make sure you are early, or individuals need to plan ahead if they choose to walk.
What is the stereotype of students at your school? Is this stereotype accurate?
Well, my school was voted #1 douchiest school in America by GQ, so I guess most people here are stereotyped as douchebags. I personally don't think this stereotype is accurate. Cornell has some of the nicest people you will ever meet! Most people are generally chill and laid back. Yes, you will find the douche-y jocks and frat boys, but for the most part, the people on campus are genuinely nice and not arrogant at all.
Easy. Cornell is beautiful. It has a rich history and a unique philosophy. The faculty is world-renowned. The student population is intelligent, unique, and interesting. The campus is large and beautiful. It's located far, far away from where I grew up, so it's different and exciting for me to be there. Ithaca is a great college town. Cornell supplies an experience, a look, and a feel that I couldn't get anywhere else.
The workload gets a little intense, there's no denying it. When it's not final or prelim season things are definitely manageable, but when it gets to studying crunch time everyone's nerves are a bit on edge. Cornell students are competitive and they want to do well, so they'll usually put in the time to study, sacrificing a few days to the library for the sake of a decent GPA.
Plus, the weather gets a bit iffy. This was one of the things I was most concerned about before coming here, but for the most part it's severely over-exaggerated. I've developed a healthy respect and appreciation for sunshine; coming from Southern California I've been used to perfect weather my entire life, but I've found it quite easy to adjust. So don't worry. There are a lot of foggy days and rainy days, but the bus system on campus is excellent and it's not that bad.
All students must apply yearly for financial aid. This process starts with the FAFSA.
Though financial aid deadlines vary by school, it is a good idea to apply as soon as possible. For the upcoming school year, you can apply as early as October 1 for the FAFSA. Additional school aid will be dependent on the FAFSA results.
61% of students attending Cornell University receive some sort of financial aid.
15% were awarded federal grants.28%received federal loans. Many students do also need to apply for additional private student loans.
