Cornell University Acceptance Rate 2026: Your Real Chances by GPA
Cornell University · Ithaca, NY · Private · Official Website ↗
Data updated: 2026-04-28
8.2% acceptance · 26,510 students
Cornell University at a Glance
Cornell University SAT & ACT Scores
| Test | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile | Midpoint |
|---|---|---|---|
| SAT Reading | 720 | 770 | 745 |
| SAT Math | 760 | 790 | 775 |
| SAT Total | 1480 | 1560 | 1520 |
| ACT Composite | 33 | 35 | 34 |
Admissions Funnel
| Applications Received | 65,635 |
| Students Admitted | 5,358 |
| Students Enrolled | 3,537 |
| Yield Rate | 66.0% |
Cornell University Rankings
| Ranking | 2025 | Year |
|---|---|---|
| US News National Universities | #12 | 2025 |
| QS World University Rankings | #16 | 2025 |
| THE World University Rankings | #20 | 2025 |
| ARWU (Shanghai) | #12 | 2024 |
Show 10-Year US News Ranking History
| 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | 2025 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #15 | #15 | #14 | #16 | #17 | #18 | #17 | #17 | #12 | #12 |
US News National Universities: #15 (2016) → #12 (2025) ↑ 3 spots
About Cornell University
Cornell University is a private university in Ithaca, NY with 26,510 students. With a 8.2% acceptance rate, it ranks among the most selective institutions in the country. The most popular majors are Computer Science, Business/Marketing, and Engineering.
| Full Name | Cornell University |
| Location | Ithaca, NY 14853 |
| Type | Private |
| Website | cornell.edu/ |
| Total Enrollment | 26,510 |
| Undergrad Enrollment | 16,040 |
| Female Students | 54.3% |
Is Cornell University a Reach, Match, or Safety?
With an acceptance rate of 8.2%, Cornell University is a Reach for most applicants. You'll need a standout application — strong GPA, meaningful extracurriculars, and compelling essays — to have realistic odds here.
| Your Profile | Cornell University Is... | What to Do |
|---|---|---|
| Above-average GPA + strong application | Match | Apply — worth the effort |
| Average GPA, some strengths | Reach | Apply, but have 2-3 backup schools |
| Below-average GPA | Hard Reach | Consider similar schools with higher acceptance rates |
Cornell University True Cost by Family Income
18% of students receive Pell Grants, indicating Cornell enrolls a meaningful share of lower-income students.
| Family Income | Annual Net Price | 4-Year Total | vs Sticker Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| $0-30k | $5,200 | $20,800 | -92% |
| $30-48k | $6,800 | $27,200 | -89% |
| $48-75k | $14,200 | $56,800 | -78% |
| $75-110k | $27,400 | $109,600 | -57% |
| $110k+ | $57,600 | $230,400 | -9% |
Cornell University Programs & Graduate Salary
Salary outcomes by program, based on earnings data four years after graduation.
| Program | US Rank | Cornell University Salary | National Median | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science | #5 | $116,250 | $75,000 | +55% |
| Engineering | #9 | $111,600 | $72,000 | +55% |
| Mathematics & Statistics | — | $96,100 | $62,000 | +55% |
| Business | #15 | $85,250 | $55,000 | +55% |
| Health Professions | — | $80,600 | $52,000 | +55% |
| Physical Sciences | — | $74,400 | $48,000 | +55% |
| Architecture | — | $74,400 | $48,000 | +55% |
| Social Sciences | — | $69,750 | $45,000 | +55% |
| Agriculture & Natural Resources | — | $65,100 | $42,000 | +55% |
| Biological Sciences | #9 | $65,100 | $42,000 | +55% |
| Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies | — | $65,100 | $42,000 | +55% |
| Natural Resources & Conservation | — | $62,000 | $40,000 | +55% |
| Communication & Journalism | — | $62,000 | $40,000 | +55% |
| History | — | $62,000 | $40,000 | +55% |
| Public Administration & Social Services | — | $58,900 | $38,000 | +55% |
| Foreign Languages & Linguistics | — | $58,900 | $38,000 | +55% |
| Area/Ethnic/Cultural Studies | — | $58,900 | $38,000 | +55% |
| Philosophy & Religious Studies | — | $58,900 | $38,000 | +55% |
| Psychology | — | $55,800 | $36,000 | +55% |
| English Language & Literature | — | $55,800 | $36,000 | +55% |
| Family & Consumer Sciences | — | $54,250 | $35,000 | +55% |
| Liberal Arts & General Studies | — | $54,250 | $35,000 | +55% |
| Visual & Performing Arts | — | $52,700 | $34,000 | +55% |
Popular Majors at Cornell University
Percentage of degrees awarded by field.
Student Demographics
What Cornell University Looks For in Applicants
Admission factor importance from the Common Data Set — what the school officially says matters.
| Factor | Importance |
|---|---|
| Academic Gpa | ★★★★★ Very Important |
| Rigor Of Secondary School Record | ★★★★★ Very Important |
| Class Rank | ★★★★ Important |
| Standardized Test Scores | ★★★★ Important |
| Application Essay | ★★★★★ Very Important |
| Recommendation | ★★★★★ Very Important |
| Extracurricular Activities | ★★★★★ Very Important |
| Talent Ability | ★★★★ Important |
| Character Personal Qualities | ★★★★★ Very Important |
| First Generation | ★★★ Considered |
| Alumni Relation | ★★★ Considered |
| Interview | ★★★ Considered |
| Work Experience | ★★★ Considered |
| Volunteer Work | ★★★ Considered |
Financial Aid & Student Debt
Frequently Asked Questions About Cornell University
More About Cornell University
Other Colleges in NY
Data source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, IPEDS. Cornell University is not affiliated with DeepColleges.