College Comparison
Cornell University vs Harvard University
Compare acceptance rates, costs, test scores, graduation rates, and more to find your best fit.
At a Glance
Type
Private
Private
Location
Ithaca, NY
Cambridge, MA
Total Enrollment
26,793
30,259
Undergrad Enrollment
16,128
8,844
Student-Faculty Ratio
9:1
7:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
8.8%
3.6%
Average GPA
4.00
4.00
SAT Range
1500–1570
1510–1580
ACT Range
33–35
34–36
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$80
$85
Total Applicants
62,993
54,008
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$81,884
$73,849
Avg Net Price
$32,337
$16,816
Tuition (In-State)
$62,456
$52,659
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$62,456
$52,659
Room & Board
$19,428
$21,190
% Receiving Aid
48.0%
56.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$61,779
$68,015
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
96.0%
97.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
91.0%
87.0%
Retention Rate
98.0%
98.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$104,043
$101,817
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Explore by Location
Cornell is in Ithaca, NY
Harvard is in Cambridge, MA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Cornell University is $32,337 per year, compared to $16,816 at Harvard University. Harvard University is $15,521 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Cornell University typically score between 1500-1570 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Harvard University, the typical SAT range is 1510-1580. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Cornell University has a graduation rate of 96%, while Harvard University has a graduation rate of 97%. Harvard University has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Cornell University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 9:1, while Harvard University has a ratio of 7:1. Harvard University offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Cornell University, 48% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $61,779. At Harvard University, 56% of students receive aid with an average grant of $68,015.
The median earnings for Cornell University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $104,043, compared to $101,817 for Harvard University graduates. Graduates from Cornell University tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
Cornell University is located in Ithaca, NY in a city: small setting. Harvard University is located in Cambridge, MA in a city: midsize setting.

