College Comparison
Colby 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
Waterville, ME
Ithaca, NY
Total Enrollment
2,412
26,793
Undergrad Enrollment
2,412
16,128
Student-Faculty Ratio
9:1
9:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
7.1%
8.8%
Average GPA
3.90
4.00
SAT Range
1460–1550
1500–1570
ACT Range
32–34
33–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$0
$80
Total Applicants
19,187
62,993
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$78,730
$81,884
Avg Net Price
$23,939
$32,337
Tuition (In-State)
$60,840
$62,456
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$60,840
$62,456
Room & Board
$17,890
$19,428
% Receiving Aid
45.0%
48.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$69,201
$61,779
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
87.0%
96.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
82.0%
91.0%
Retention Rate
94.0%
98.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$80,490
$104,043
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Explore by Location
Colby is in Waterville, ME
Cornell is in Ithaca, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Colby College is $23,939 per year, compared to $32,337 at Cornell University. Colby College is $8,398 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Colby College typically score between 1460-1550 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.
Colby College has a graduation rate of 87%, while Cornell University has a graduation rate of 96%. Cornell University has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Colby College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 9:1, while Cornell University has a ratio of 9:1. Cornell University offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Colby College, 45% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $69,201. At Cornell University, 48% of students receive aid with an average grant of $61,779.
The median earnings for Colby College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $80,490, 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.
Colby College is located in Waterville, ME in a town: remote setting. Cornell University is located in Ithaca, NY in a city: small setting.

