College Comparison
Amherst College vs Cornell University
Compare acceptance rates, costs, test scores, graduation rates, and more to find your best fit.
At a Glance
Type
Private
Private
Location
Amherst, MA
Ithaca, NY
Total Enrollment
1,914
26,793
Undergrad Enrollment
1,914
16,128
Student-Faculty Ratio
6:1
9:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
9.0%
8.8%
Average GPA
3.90
4.00
SAT Range
1490–1580
1500–1570
ACT Range
33–35
33–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$65
$80
Total Applicants
13,743
62,993
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$81,890
$81,884
Avg Net Price
$18,246
$32,337
Tuition (In-State)
$63,500
$62,456
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$63,500
$62,456
Room & Board
$18,390
$19,428
% Receiving Aid
59.0%
48.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$68,591
$61,779
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
94.0%
96.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
88.0%
91.0%
Retention Rate
97.0%
98.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$77,644
$104,043
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Explore by Location
Amherst is in Amherst, MA
Cornell is in Ithaca, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Amherst College is $18,246 per year, compared to $32,337 at Cornell University. Amherst College is $14,091 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Amherst College typically score between 1490-1580 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Cornell University, the typical SAT range is 1500-1570. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Amherst College has a graduation rate of 94%, while Cornell University has a graduation rate of 96%. Cornell University has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Amherst College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 6:1, while Cornell University has a ratio of 9:1. Amherst College offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Amherst College, 59% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $68,591. At Cornell University, 48% of students receive aid with an average grant of $61,779.
The median earnings for Amherst College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $77,644, compared to $104,043 for Cornell University graduates. Graduates from Cornell University tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
Amherst College is located in Amherst, MA in a city: small setting. Cornell University is located in Ithaca, NY in a city: small setting.

