College Comparison
Cornell University vs Massachusetts Institute of Technology
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
11,886
Undergrad Enrollment
16,128
4,535
Student-Faculty Ratio
9:1
3:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
8.8%
4.5%
Average GPA
4.00
4.00
SAT Range
1500–1570
1520–1580
ACT Range
33–35
34–36
Test Policy
Optional
Required
Application Fee
$80
$75
Total Applicants
62,993
28,232
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$81,884
$77,870
Avg Net Price
$32,337
$20,000
Tuition (In-State)
$62,456
$57,590
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$62,456
$57,590
Room & Board
$19,428
$20,280
% Receiving Aid
48.0%
59.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$61,779
$61,734
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
96.0%
97.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
91.0%
90.0%
Retention Rate
98.0%
99.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$104,043
$143,372
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Explore by Location
Cornell is in Ithaca, NY
MIT is in Cambridge, MA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Cornell University is $32,337 per year, compared to $20,000 at MIT. MIT is $12,337 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Cornell University typically score between 1500-1570 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At MIT, the typical SAT range is 1520-1580. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Cornell University has a graduation rate of 96%, while MIT has a graduation rate of 97%. MIT has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Cornell University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 9:1, while MIT has a ratio of 3:1. MIT 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 MIT, 59% of students receive aid with an average grant of $61,734.
The median earnings for Cornell University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $104,043, compared to $143,372 for MIT graduates. Graduates from MIT 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. MIT is located in Cambridge, MA in a city: midsize setting.

