Cornell University Overview
Cornell is a private Ivy League university and the land-grant university for New York state. Its mission is to discover, preserve, and disseminate knowledge, educate the next generation of global citizens, and promote a culture of broad inquiry. Cornell also focuses on public service to enhance the lives of its students, the people of New York, and individuals worldwide.
General Information
- Website: cornell.edu
- Address:
616 Thurston Ave,
Ithaca, NY 14853 - Athletics Division: NCAA Division I-FCS
- Athletics Conference: Ivy League
Key Features
- Life at Cornell: A vibrant campus life offering countless opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Belonging and Community: A diverse and inclusive community focused on fostering a sense of belonging for all.
- Costs and Financial Aid: Committed to making education accessible, Cornell offers substantial financial aid to students.
- Visit and Connect: Plan a campus visit to experience the university’s dynamic environment.
Rankings
- Best Colleges for Information Technology in America: #1 of 292
- Best Colleges for Agricultural Sciences in America: #1 of 152
- Best Colleges for Business in America: #2 of 1,221
(Source: Niche rankings based on U.S. Department of Education data and millions of reviews.)
Admissions
- Application Deadline: January 2
- Acceptance Rate: 7%
- SAT Range: 1470-1570
- ACT Range: 33-35
- Application Fee: $80
- Application Method: Common App accepted
Visit the Cornell Admissions Website to learn more.
Cost and Financial Aid
- Net Price: $26,060/year (after financial aid)
- Average Total Aid Awarded: $54,219/year
- Percentage Receiving Financial Aid: 59%
Academics
- Professors: Rated A+ based on faculty accomplishments, salary, and student reviews.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 8:1
- Evening Degree Programs: Not available.
Popular Majors:
- Computer Science: 504 graduates
- Biology: 480 graduates
- Business: 282 graduates
Cornell offers nearly 80 majors and more than 4,000 courses across its eight undergraduate colleges and schools.
Campus Life
- Freshman Live On-Campus: 99%
- Greek Life: Popular, with 55% saying it has a significant presence.
- Varsity Sports: 68% say varsity sporting events are attended but not central to campus life.
Polls and Reviews:
- Typical Student: Smart, hardworking, and stressed (53%)
- Favorite Campus Description: “Any person, any study”
After Graduation
- Median Earnings (6 Years After Graduation): $77,200/year
- Graduation Rate: 95%
- Employed 2 Years After Graduation: 93%
Admissions FAQs
What is the acceptance rate at Cornell University?
Cornell has a competitive acceptance rate of 7%.What are the application deadlines for Cornell?
The Regular Decision deadline is January 2, and the Early Decision deadline is November 1.Does Cornell require SAT or ACT scores?
Test scores are considered but not required.What is the average SAT score range for admitted students?
Admitted students typically have SAT scores between 1470-1570.What is the average ACT score range for admitted students?
The ACT score range for admitted students is 33-35.Can I apply to Cornell using the Common Application?
Yes, Cornell accepts the Common Application.Does Cornell offer Early Decision?
Yes, Cornell offers an Early Decision option.Is there an application fee for Cornell?
Yes, the application fee is $80.Does Cornell require a high school GPA for admissions?
A high school GPA is considered but not required.What should I include in my Cornell application essay?
Your essay should reflect your interests, goals, and reasons for choosing Cornell.
Academics FAQs
What is the student-to-faculty ratio at Cornell?
The ratio is 8:1, ensuring small class sizes and personalized attention.What are the most popular majors at Cornell?
Popular majors include Computer Science, Biology, and Business.Does Cornell offer online courses?
Yes, Cornell offers some online courses.What is Cornell’s Core Curriculum?
Cornell does not have a universal core curriculum but offers diverse courses tailored to each college.How many undergraduate majors does Cornell offer?
Cornell offers nearly 80 majors.What is the average class size at Cornell?
Classes typically have fewer than 20 students.Can I double major at Cornell?
Yes, students can double major across disciplines.Does Cornell offer study abroad programs?
Yes, Cornell offers extensive study abroad opportunities.What academic resources are available for students?
Resources include libraries, research facilities, tutoring centers, and academic advisors.What is unique about Cornell’s academic structure?
Cornell combines an Ivy League education with land-grant public service, offering a mix of theoretical and practical learning.
Financial Aid FAQs
Does Cornell meet 100% of demonstrated financial need?
Yes, Cornell meets the full demonstrated financial need of admitted students.What is the average financial aid package at Cornell?
The average financial aid package is $54,219.Does Cornell offer merit-based scholarships?
No, Cornell’s financial aid is primarily need-based.How do I apply for financial aid at Cornell?
Submit the FAFSA and CSS Profile.Are there work-study opportunities at Cornell?
Yes, work-study positions are available for eligible students.Does Cornell provide financial aid for international students?
Yes, need-based financial aid is available for international students.What is the net price for students after financial aid?
The average net price is $26,060 per year.Does Cornell offer tuition payment plans?
Yes, Cornell offers payment plans to help families manage tuition costs.Can graduate students receive financial aid?
Yes, financial aid options are available for graduate students.Are there special grants for New York residents?
Yes, as a land-grant university, Cornell offers some grants for New York state residents.
Campus Life FAQs
Do freshmen live on campus at Cornell?
Yes, 99% of freshmen live on campus.What housing options are available for students?
Options include residence halls, apartments, and themed housing.Is Greek life active at Cornell?
Yes, Greek life is significant, with 55% of students participating.Are there dining facilities on campus?
Yes, Cornell offers award-winning dining facilities.What extracurricular activities are available?
Students can choose from over 1,000 clubs and organizations.Is Cornell a safe campus?
Yes, Cornell prioritizes campus safety with 24/7 security services.What is the student diversity like at Cornell?
Cornell has a diverse student body from all 50 states and over 100 countries.Are there recreational facilities on campus?
Yes, Cornell offers fitness centers, sports fields, and recreational programs.What cultural events happen at Cornell?
Events include concerts, theater productions, and guest lectures.What transportation options are available on campus?
Cornell offers buses, shuttles, and bike-sharing programs.
Career Services FAQs
What is the graduation rate at Cornell?
The graduation rate is 95%.What is the median salary of Cornell graduates?
Graduates earn a median salary of $77,200 six years after graduation.Does Cornell offer career counseling?
Yes, the university provides career services, including counseling and workshops.Are internships available to Cornell students?
Yes, students have access to internships across various industries.What companies recruit at Cornell?
Top companies like Google, Amazon, and Goldman Sachs recruit at Cornell.Can I participate in research projects as an undergraduate?
Yes, research opportunities are available for undergraduate students.Does Cornell have an alumni network?
Yes, Cornell boasts a robust global alumni network.What support is available for students pursuing entrepreneurship?
Cornell offers incubators, mentorships, and funding for startups.Are there job fairs on campus?
Yes, Cornell hosts job fairs and networking events regularly.What resources are available for students interested in graduate school?
Cornell provides advising, test prep resources, and application workshops.
Student Services FAQs
Does Cornell have mental health services?
Yes, the university provides counseling and mental health support.What disability services does Cornell offer?
Cornell offers accommodations, assistive technologies, and accessibility resources.Are there dining options for dietary restrictions?
Yes, Cornell Dining caters to various dietary needs, including vegan and gluten-free.Is there a student health center on campus?
Yes, Cornell has a fully equipped health center.Does Cornell have childcare services?
Limited childcare services are available for students with families.
Campus Life FAQs (Continued)
What percentage of students participate in varsity sports at Cornell?
Approximately 30% of students participate in varsity athletics.Does Cornell have an active arts and theater program?
Yes, Cornell offers various opportunities in performing arts, including theater, dance, and music.Are there opportunities for outdoor activities at Cornell?
Yes, students can enjoy hiking, skiing, and other outdoor activities in Ithaca and the surrounding areas.What kind of study spaces are available on campus?
Study spaces include libraries, study lounges, and collaborative areas in academic buildings.What sustainability initiatives does Cornell have?
Cornell focuses on sustainability through renewable energy projects, recycling programs, and LEED-certified buildings.Are pets allowed in campus housing?
Generally, pets are not allowed, but service animals and emotional support animals are permitted with approval.Does Cornell have cultural or diversity organizations?
Yes, there are numerous cultural organizations and diversity initiatives on campus.How can students get involved in community service?
Cornell offers many volunteer opportunities through student organizations and local partnerships.Are there weekend activities for students?
Yes, activities include concerts, movies, festivals, and off-campus excursions.What is Cornell’s policy on alcohol and drugs?
Cornell enforces a strict policy in compliance with state and federal laws while offering support programs for students.
Academic Resources FAQs
Does Cornell offer tutoring services?
Yes, tutoring is available through academic support centers and peer tutors.What libraries are available at Cornell?
Cornell has 20 libraries, including Olin Library, Kroch Library, and Mann Library.Does Cornell have a writing center?
Yes, the Knight Writing Institute provides support for writing projects.Are there academic advisors for every student?
Yes, students are assigned academic advisors based on their college and major.Can students create their own major?
Yes, some colleges at Cornell allow students to design individualized majors.What is the average workload for a Cornell student?
The workload is rigorous, with students typically taking 15-18 credit hours per semester.Does Cornell offer language courses?
Yes, Cornell offers courses in over 50 languages.Are there honors programs at Cornell?
Yes, many departments have honors programs for high-achieving students.What research facilities are available at Cornell?
Facilities include laboratories, research centers, and institutes such as the Cornell Lab of Ornithology.Can undergraduate students work as teaching assistants?
Yes, undergraduates may work as teaching assistants in certain departments.
Housing and Dining FAQs
What are the freshman housing options at Cornell?
Freshmen typically live in residence halls on North Campus.Is off-campus housing available for students?
Yes, off-campus housing is available in Ithaca and the surrounding areas.Does Cornell provide gender-inclusive housing?
Yes, Cornell offers gender-inclusive housing options.What meal plans are available at Cornell?
Meal plans range from unlimited access to dining halls to block plans with a set number of meals.Are dining halls open late?
Yes, several dining halls and cafes have extended hours.Can students cook their own meals on campus?
Yes, residence halls and apartments often include shared kitchens.What is the quality of dining services at Cornell?
Cornell Dining is highly rated, with a variety of cuisines and dietary options.Are there coffee shops on campus?
Yes, there are multiple coffee shops, including campus-run cafes and brand-name outlets.Is housing guaranteed for all four years?
Housing is guaranteed for freshmen and sophomores, and upperclassmen can apply for on-campus housing.Are laundry facilities available in residence halls?
Yes, all residence halls have laundry facilities.
Technology and Resources FAQs
Does Cornell provide free Wi-Fi on campus?
Yes, Wi-Fi is available across campus.Are laptops required for students?
Laptops are not required, but they are recommended for coursework.What software resources are available to students?
Cornell offers free or discounted access to software like Microsoft Office, MATLAB, and Adobe Creative Cloud.Does Cornell have tech support for students?
Yes, IT support is available through the university’s service desk.Are there printing services on campus?
Yes, students can print in libraries, computer labs, and residence halls.What tech labs are available for students?
Tech labs include computer labs, makerspaces, and specialized labs for engineering and design.Does Cornell offer online class registration?
Yes, students register for classes online through the Student Center.Is there an app for Cornell students?
Yes, the Cornell app provides campus updates, dining menus, and event information.Are there virtual reality resources available?
Yes, some departments and libraries offer virtual reality tools for projects and research.Can students rent laptops or equipment?
Yes, some libraries and tech centers offer equipment rentals.
Miscellaneous FAQs
What is the campus size of Cornell University?
Cornell’s campus covers over 2,300 acres in Ithaca, New York.How many students are enrolled at Cornell?
Cornell has approximately 15,735 undergraduate students.What is the weather like in Ithaca?
Ithaca experiences all four seasons, with cold winters and mild summers.Does Cornell have a mascot?
Yes, the mascot is the Big Red Bear.What is Cornell’s motto?
Cornell’s motto is “I would found an institution where any person can find instruction in any study.”
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