College Comparison
Cornell University vs Northeastern 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
Boston, MA
Total Enrollment
26,793
32,553
Undergrad Enrollment
16,128
17,432
Student-Faculty Ratio
9:1
16:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
8.8%
5.2%
Average GPA
4.00
4.00
SAT Range
1500–1570
1440–1540
ACT Range
33–35
33–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$80
$75
Total Applicants
62,993
98,425
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$81,884
$78,680
Avg Net Price
$32,337
$32,116
Tuition (In-State)
$62,456
$59,100
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$62,456
$59,100
Room & Board
$19,428
$19,580
% Receiving Aid
48.0%
66.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$61,779
$50,421
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
96.0%
90.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
91.0%
35.0%
Retention Rate
98.0%
97.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$104,043
$92,538
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Explore by Location
Cornell is in Ithaca, NY
Northeastern is in Boston, MA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Cornell University is $32,337 per year, compared to $32,116 at Northeastern University. Northeastern University is $221 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Cornell University typically score between 1500-1570 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Northeastern University, the typical SAT range is 1440-1540. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Cornell University has a graduation rate of 96%, while Northeastern University has a graduation rate of 90%. Cornell University has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Cornell University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 9:1, while Northeastern University has a ratio of 16:1. Cornell 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 Northeastern University, 66% of students receive aid with an average grant of $50,421.
The median earnings for Cornell University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $104,043, compared to $92,538 for Northeastern 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. Northeastern University is located in Boston, MA in a city: large setting.

